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Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Zetier

CNO Embedded Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Familiarity with software programming languages (e.g. C/C++, Matlab, Python) * Development on embedded platforms (e.g. uBoot, IoT, drone firmware) * Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end ...

Allocor Tech

Quote & Proposal Manager

Crozet, VA · On-site

Support program managers with scheduling, milestone tracking, and status reporting across active drone software programs. * Coordinate cross-functional meetings across engineering, QA, customers, and ...

New

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion's software stack onto partner hardware and ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion's software stack onto partner hardware and ...

Auterion

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... drone capabilities, including integration of Auterion's software stack onto partner hardware and ...

Axon

System Test Engineer II

Sterling, VA

In this role the drone is the threat . What's under test is the CUAS stack - detect, track ... software, integrations, and platforms that deliver it. What You'll Do * Own system-level test ...

Axon

System Test Engineer II

Sterling, VA · On-site

You'll design and execute the test strategies that prove them out, across hardware/software ... In this role the drone is the threat. What's under test is the CUAS stack - detect, track, identify ...

Droneshield

Field Service Engineer (USA)

Warrenton, VA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

At DroneShield, employees work at the leading edge of counter-drone innovation, helping to address ... software releases • Collaborate with internal teams and third-party vendors for successful ...

Zetier

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Familiarity with systems software development (OS kernel drivers) * Effective communication with ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Familiar reading assembly ...

Zetier

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA

$19.25 - $25/hr

Familiarity with systems software development (OS kernel drivers) * Effective communication with ... Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Familiar reading assembly ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDrone Software Engineer JobsDrone Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Drone Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone software engineer in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone software engineer?

A Drone Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains the software that controls drones, including flight control algorithms, navigation systems, and communication protocols. They work with programming languages like C++, Python, and ROS to ensure autonomous or semi-autonomous drone operations. Their role may also involve integrating sensors, optimizing performance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drone software engineer?

Drone Software Engineers typically spend their days designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software that enables drones to perform tasks such as flight control, navigation, and data processing. You might work on integrating sensors, optimizing real-time algorithms, or troubleshooting issues during test flights. Collaboration with hardware engineers, data analysts, and QA testers is common to ensure the seamless operation of the drone systems. You may also participate in code reviews, contribute to project planning, and stay updated with the latest advancements in drone technology to continuously improve software performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the drone software engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drone Software Engineer, you need expertise in software development, robotics, embedded systems, and a solid background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with programming languages such as C++, Python, ROS (Robot Operating System), and tools for flight control or simulation is often required, along with knowledge of relevant industry certifications like Part 107 (for commercial drone operations). Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These qualifications are essential for developing robust, reliable drone software that operates safely and efficiently in real-world environments.

How to become a drone software engineer?

To become a drone software engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field, along with experience in programming languages such as C++ or Python. Knowledge of embedded systems, drone hardware, and flight control algorithms is essential, and familiarity with development tools like ROS or PX4 can be beneficial. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or personal projects involving drone software development can also improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drone Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Drone Software Engineer job openings:

Drone Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

CNO Embedded Engineer

Zetier

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

CNO Embedded Engineer

Zetier seeks senior Computer Network Operations (CNO) embedded system engineers to analyze and develop operationally critical cyber capabilities. Candidates will demonstrate practical experience designing, developing, deploying, and examining tools intersecting communications, sensing, and meeting resource constraints (e.g. space, heat, power). Positions available in Arlington (VA), State College (PA), and St Petersburg (FL).

Required:

  • Extensive experience (5+ years) electrical engineering (e.g. DSP, FPGA, PCB, RF)
  • Familiarity with software programming languages (e.g. C/C++, Matlab, Python)
  • Development on embedded platforms (e.g. uBoot, IoT, drone firmware)
  • Successfully developed cutting edge end-to-end cyber solutions
  • Effective communication with customers and teammates
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience with RF/mmW hardware design and/or component design
  • Wireless communications standards and protocols (e.g. GSM/LTE/5g)
  • Schematic capture; PCB layout, simulation, and design experience
  • Systems software development experience (e.g. OS kernel drivers)
  • Experience working in networking (e.g. 802.11ac, Zigbee, SATCOM)
  • Securely implemented cryptographic primitives (e.g. AES, ECDSA)
  • Experience developing with version control software (e.g. git, svn)
  • Familiar reading assembly / compiled programs (e.g. x86, 64, ARM)
  • Reverse engineering experience (e.g. gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro)
  • Developed software on mobile platforms (e.g. Android, iOS)
  • Successfully led small cross-domain development teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.

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