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Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Mechanical Engineer

Madison, AL

Collaborate closely with electrical, software, and production teams to ensure successful ... Understanding of small unmanned aircraft or target drone systems and their mechanical and ...

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All JobsDrone Software Engineer JobsDrone Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL

Drone Software Engineer information

See Madison, AL salary details

$56.9K

$132.2K

$184.1K

How much do drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone software engineer in Madison, AL is $132,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $155,000.00 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 cities near Madison, AL are hiring for Drone Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, AL with the most Drone Software Engineer job openings:

Drone Software Engineer jobs near you

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Performance Drone Works

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$122K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.
You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.
Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Senior Embedded Engineer to join our team, contributing to the next wave of system and tool development for our upcoming product lines. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in designing the next generation of our autonomous, semi-autonomous, and precision flight drones. This includes assisting in the architectural design, parts selection, validation test design, and overseeing hardware and software development cycles for a variety of hardware projects.
What You'll Do
  • Lead and participate in the end-to-end lifecycle of software development from concept to deployment, contributing high-quality, production-ready code.
  • Collaborate closely with product teams to define and implement effective solutions based on business needs and user feedback.
  • Collaborate with a strong team and company stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently, taking personal ownership of tasks and deliverables, while not neglecting teamwork and clear communication.
  • Take on challenging and complex technical issues, applying your expertise to propose and implement robust, long-term solutions.
  • Support application deployments in the field for product testing and demonstrations; including live troubleshooting and analysis.
  • Uphold and raise the bar for high code quality and performance, conducting code reviews and optimizations to improve system efficiency and scalability.
  • Be vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing performance bottlenecks and security vulnerabilities.

Requirements
  • Senior-level C/C++ development experience supporting embedded and real-time systems.
  • Strong Embedded Linux background including hardware integration, low-level system development, and deployment on complex embedded platforms.
    • Expertise in building and managing the Linux kernel, including configuration, customization, and optimization for specific hardware platforms.
    • Proficiency in developing and maintaining Linux device drivers, with a deep understanding of Linux kernel subsystems and hardware interaction.
  • Experience with Real Time Operating System(s) (RTOS).
  • Proven track record of developing high-quality embedded software.
  • Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.
  • Solid understanding of network programming, including proficiency in TCP/IP networking, network stack, and related communication protocols.
  • Knowledge of hardware-based software development; including the use of timers, interrupts, hardware peripherals such as SPI controllers and ADCs, and debug tools.
  • Experience with communication buses such as I2C, CAN, UART and SPI; along with devices that utilize them.
  • Demonstrated experience in hardware bring-up, including proficiency in troubleshooting and resolving hardware-related issues in embedded systems.
  • 5-7 Years Professional Development Experience; Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Software Engineering or equivalent non-internship experience.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance or higher, as required.

Preferred
  • Candidates with UAV aircraft, robotics development experience and/or hobby drone experience

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.
Work Environment
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-differential collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.
Benefits
PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:
  • Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
  • Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
  • Paid Parental Leave.
  • On-site gym at Huntsville, AL & Denver, CO locations.
  • Employer provided life insurance.
  • Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
  • Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement
PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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