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Drone Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Belcan

Software Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer with a focus on embedded software and a strong background in drone/unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), software development, testing and support. The ...

Actalent

Deployment Software Engineer

Nashville, TN

$30 - $45/hr

Job Title: Deployment Software Engineer The Deployment Software Engineer role sits at the ... Analyze drone flight data to identify performance trends, anomalies, and opportunities for ...

Staffingine LLC

Drone Data Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$109K - $131K/yr

Drone Data Engineer Job Location: Houston, Tx Job Type: Contract * Drone Data Execution Engineer Skydio * Drone Operations Data Execution * Plan execute and optimize drone missions for inspection ...

Belcan

Software Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer with a focus on embedded software and a strong background in drone/unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), software development, testing and support. The ...

New

Parsons

Mid Software Engineer

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

Parsons is seeking an Mid Software Engineer to support our cutting-edge Drone Armor counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) program. The Software Engineer will develop, test, and maintain software in ...

Performance Drone Works

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$185K - $225K/yr

Company Overview Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic ... What You'll Do Our Staff Software Engineer will: * Provide technical leadership across multiple ...

GliaCell Technologies

Junior Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$50K - $120K/yr

Are you a Junior Software Engineer who is ready for a new challenge that will launch your career to ... Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ...

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Drone Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

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How much do drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for drone software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Drone Software Engineer job?

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.

Is drone engineering a good career?

Drone software engineering is a growing field that involves developing control systems, navigation algorithms, and data processing for unmanned aerial vehicles. It offers opportunities in industries such as agriculture, surveillance, and delivery services, often requiring skills in programming, robotics, and systems integration. The field can provide a stable career with increasing demand as drone technology advances.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A drone software engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, and working for top tech companies or in specialized industries like defense or aerospace. High salaries often include bonuses, stock options, and other incentives for senior-level roles or those with unique expertise in drone systems and software development.

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 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.

How much does a drone engineer make?

A drone software engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as programming, robotics, or sensor integration. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like defense, agriculture, or delivery services.

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.

More about Drone Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Drone Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Drone Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Drone Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Software Engineer jobs are:
Drone Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

Belcan

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


A Software Engineer / Flight Systems job in San Luis Obispo, CA is currently available through Belcan with one of our emerging aerospace clients. We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer with a focus on embedded software and a strong background in drone/unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), software development, testing and support. The successful resource is expected to be able to troubleshoot, analyze and iterate, as well as provide expertise in all activities surrounding software development.
Job Duties:
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
* Development and customization of PX4 flight stack and integration with QGroundControl (QGC)
* Software development in C/C++ for embedded flight systems, with Python supporting test and validation workflows
* GPS position management and navigation-related software development
* Autonomy and system-level software integration across vehicle, payload, and ground control interfaces
* Experience working within Git-based environments (GitHub / GitLab), including version control and team-based development workflows
* Development within modern environments (Visual Studio Code or similar)
* Implementation of unit testing and software validation practices
* Communication protocols and system interfaces (MAVLink, TCP/IP, UDP, and related embedded interfaces)
* Software integration and debug across hardware/software boundaries within flight and lab environments
* Support for rapid iteration driven by integration, test, and flight feedback
Required Qualifications:
* Degree in relevant field such as Robotics, Autonomy, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Mathematics; strong preference for Software/Aerospace Engineering.
* Minimum Qualifications:
* 5+ years of relevant experience
* Must have some knowledge of the PX4
* Due to the nature of the work performed, US Citizenship is a requirement
Preferred Qualifications & Skills:
* Experience with PX4 flight control stack (autopilot) / OS or similar (i.e. robot OS [ROS2], ArduPilot, Pixhawk)
* Able to lead small team with ownership of software work packages
* Embedded real-time software development
* Aerospace experience, especially with unmanned aircraft systems
We provide a competitive pay and benefits package. This position is offering an salary rate of $104,000 to $145,600 however, Belcan considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to education, experience, geographic location, and discipline. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law.
Belcan is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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About Belcan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Belcan is a leading provider of qualified personnel to many of the world's most respected enterprises. We offer excellent opportunities for contract/temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct assignments in the engineering, IT, and professional fields. We are the employer of choice for thousands worldwide. Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and communities succeed.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1958

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