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Drone Startup Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TekSky

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

A true "drone nerd" who builds, flies, and experiments with UAS as a hobby. * Startup Mindset * Proactive, adaptable, and positive, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment where ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Thrive in a startup environment * Positive, team-first communicator * Willing to roll up sleeves ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Thrive in a startup environment * Positive, team-first communicator * Willing to roll up sleeves ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Thrive in a startup environment * Positive, team-first communicator * Willing to roll up sleeves ...

TrustPoint

Ground Station Lead

Sterling, VA · On-site

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment and drive complex programs to ...

TrustPoint

Senior Electrical Design Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$139K - $172K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Self-directed and comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment. * Must be a ...

TrustPoint

Senior Electrical Design Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$139K - $172K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Self-directed and comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment. * Must be a ...

TrustPoint

Ground Station Lead

Dulles, VA · On-site

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment and drive complex programs to ...

TrustPoint

Senior Electrical Design Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$139K - $172K/yr

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Self-directed and comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment. * Must be a ...

TrustPoint

Ground Station Lead

Dulles, VA · On-site

... drone delivery, self-driving cars, urban air mobility, and augmented reality. The $260B annual GNSS ... Ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced startup environment and drive complex programs to ...

All JobsDrone Startup JobsDrone Startup Jobs in Virginia

Drone Startup information

What is a drone startup?

A drone startup is a company focused on designing, manufacturing, or utilizing drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) for various applications such as delivery, aerial photography, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, or mapping. These startups typically innovate in areas like drone hardware, software, data analytics, or industry-specific solutions. Many drone startups operate at the intersection of technology and business, seeking to solve problems or create efficiencies across different sectors. They may also develop new business models or services enabled by advancements in drone technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a drone startup?

To thrive in a drone startup, you need a solid understanding of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, engineering principles, and business development, often supported by a degree in engineering, robotics, or entrepreneurship. Familiarity with drone piloting certifications (such as FAA Part 107), CAD software, and industry-standard data processing tools is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you navigate the fast-paced and innovative startup environment. These competencies are crucial for driving product development, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering growth in a competitive market.

What are some common challenges faced when working at a drone startup, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Working at a drone startup often involves adapting quickly to evolving technology and regulations. Team members may encounter challenges like rapidly shifting project priorities, tight deadlines, and the need to wear multiple hats—from engineering to customer support. To prepare, it's helpful to stay informed about drone industry trends, develop strong problem-solving skills, and be ready to collaborate closely with colleagues from different disciplines. Embracing flexibility and a willingness to learn can help new hires thrive in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Drone Startup vs Drone Pilot?

AspectDrone StartupDrone Pilot
Required CredentialsMay include drone licenses, certifications, and technical skillsRequires drone pilot certification (e.g., Part 107 in the US), FAA license, and flying skills
Work EnvironmentTypically in a startup setting, involving product development, testing, and field operationsPrimarily in the field, flying drones for various purposes like filming, surveying, or inspections
Employer & Industry UsageStartups developing drone technology or services in industries like agriculture, delivery, or surveillanceCompanies, agencies, or freelance work requiring drone operation skills

While a drone startup focuses on developing drone technology or services within a startup environment, a drone pilot specializes in operating drones for specific tasks. Both roles often require similar certifications, but their daily activities and work settings differ significantly.

How do I start a career in drone startups?

To start a career in drone startups, develop skills in drone technology, programming, and electronics, and gain experience through relevant certifications or training programs. Familiarity with industry-specific tools and understanding regulations can also improve job prospects in this field.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drone Startup jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Drone Startup job openings:

Drone Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Startup job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

TekSky

Hampton, VA • On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Senior Mechanical Engineer - Hampton, VA
About the job
Senior Mechanical Engineer - UAS
About Advanced Aircraft Company (AAC)
Do you want to be part of a culture that inspires people to think big, perform with excellence, and build products that matter? At Advanced Aircraft Company (AAC), we design and manufacture high-performance VTOL unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for defense and commercial applications. As a fast-paced, veteran-owned startup, we are driven by one mission: delivering reliable, high-performance systems that help save the lives of our men and women in uniform. Our work is inspired directly by the warfighter. If you have the passion, courage, and curiosity to solve difficult engineering problems, we invite you to help us build a world defined by Peace Through Strength.
Position Overview
AAC is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with deep intuition and hands-on experience in small UAS (sUAS) design. You will serve as the owner of the complete mechanical CAD assembly, leading the design, fabrication, integration, and sustainment of current and future aircraft hardware from early concept through flight testing and production. This role is highly hands-on, with an emphasis on execution, iteration, and practical engineering judgment in a fast-moving startup environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Mechanical Design Ownership
  • Own and maintain the master CAD assembly for AAC aircraft, ensuring high-fidelity models and accurate subsystem integration.
  • Manage configuration control and version tracking of all mechanical components.
  • End-to-End Product Development
  • Execute all stages of the product lifecycle, including concept development, detailed design, analysis, prototyping, flight testing, and manufacturing transition.
  • Design and refine composite structures, fuselages, flight surfaces, internal structures, component mounting solutions, propulsion systems, and payload integrations.
  • Design Iteration & Manufacturing Optimization
  • Redesign aircraft components to optimize manufacturability, reliability, weight, and performance.
  • Continuously improve fabrication and assembly processes to support efficient, scalable production (e.g., composite layups, machined parts, 3D-printed structures).
  • Technical Leadership
  • Serve as the mechanical technical lead, mentoring and guiding other engineers as the team grows.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to optimize system-level performance against mission requirements.

This is a 90% individual contributor / 10% leadership role, ideal for a senior engineer who leads by doing.
Required Qualifications
  • Experience & Expertise
  • 10+ years of hands-on mechanical design experience, with deep expertise in small UAS or aerospace systems.
  • Proven ability to design lightweight, high-performance flight hardware using sound engineering judgment and intuition.
  • Technical Skills
  • Proficiency in Autodesk Fusion 360.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft structural design, manufacturing methods, and mechanical integration.
  • Strong understanding of latest 3D printing techniques and material selection.
  • Communication
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to document designs and communicate technical decisions clearly.
  • Eligibility & Location
  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Ability to work on-site at AAC's offices in Hampton, VA.

Desired Characteristics
  • Military or Defense Affinity
  • U.S. military veteran experience is a strong plus.
  • Drone Enthusiast Mentality
  • A true "drone nerd" who builds, flies, and experiments with UAS as a hobby.
  • Startup Mindset
  • Proactive, adaptable, and positive, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities evolve quickly.
  • Research & Documentation
  • Strong research and documentation skills to rapidly increase the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of new designs.

Apply