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Drone Startup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wild West Systems Inc.

Firmware Engineer

Leander, TX · On-site

Familiarity with drone/UAV systems, real-time operating systems, or embedded development. * Experience at a high-growth startup or technology company with strong engineering practices. * Experience ...

Wild West Systems Inc.

Firmware Engineer

Leander, TX · On-site

Familiarity with drone/UAV systems, real-time operating systems, or embedded development. * Experience at a high-growth startup or technology company with strong engineering practices. * Experience ...

Wild West Systems Inc.

Firmware Engineer

Leander, TX · On-site

Familiarity with drone/UAV systems, real-time operating systems, or embedded development. * Experience at a high-growth startup or technology company with strong engineering practices. * Experience ...

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 ...

Performance Drone Works

Principal Program Manager

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used ... startup. * Coordinate engineering, manufacturing, facilities, supply chain, quality, finance, and ...

Neros Technologies

Firmware Test Engineer

Torrance, CA

$145K - $204K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup ...

Flock

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Experience in Drone Operations: Preferably in experimental UAS development, and proficient in ... Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a startup team environment. * Customer-Focused ...

Axon

Account Executive, Air, T1200

New York, NY · Remote

Your Impact As an Account Executive for Air products (drones and counter-drone solutions), you will ... Startup experience & some vertical experience is a plus * You want to make a difference in society ...

Axon

Account Executive, Air T1200

Boston, MA · Remote

Your Impact As an Account Executive for Air products (drones and counter-drone solutions), you will ... Startup experience & some vertical experience is a plus * You want to make a difference in society ...

Neros Technologies

Firmware Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$145K - $204K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We design and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are tested in combat, iterated at startup ...

Flock Safety

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Experience in Drone Operations: Preferably in experimental UAS development, and proficient in ... Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a startup team environment. * Customer-Focused ...

Sentradel

Computer Vision Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $210K/yr

Sentradel is a defense startup in San Francisco building autonomous, low cost kinetic turret systems designed to defeat Group 1 (small FPV drones) and low flying Group 2 drone threats. We have shot ...

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Drone Startup information

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How much do drone startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone startup in the United States is $35.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How do I start a career in drones?

To start a career in drones, gain knowledge of drone technology, flight operations, and safety regulations. Obtain relevant certifications such as Part 107 from the FAA or equivalent authorities, and develop skills in remote piloting, maintenance, and data analysis. Gaining hands-on experience through training programs or internships can also improve job prospects in the drone industry.

Is starting a drone business profitable?

Starting a drone business can be profitable if there is demand for services such as aerial photography, surveying, or inspection. Success depends on factors like market competition, skill level, equipment costs, and obtaining relevant certifications. Profitability varies widely based on location, niche, and operational efficiency.

What drone jobs are best for beginners?

Entry-level drone jobs suitable for beginners include aerial photography, basic inspection work, and data collection. These roles typically require a small drone operation certification, basic flying skills, and adherence to local regulations. Gaining experience with user-friendly drones and understanding safety protocols can help new operators start in these positions.

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.

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, and why are they important?

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.

How much do people who fly drones for money get paid?

Drone pilots can earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Freelance drone operators often set their rates, with specialized skills and certifications potentially increasing earning potential.
More about Drone Startup jobs
What cities are hiring for Drone Startup jobs? Cities with the most Drone Startup job openings:
What states have the most Drone Startup jobs? States with the most job openings for Drone Startup jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drone Startup jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drone Startup jobs are:
Drone Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drone Startup job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,099 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Firmware Engineer

Wild West Systems Inc.

Leander, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Firmware Engineer - Autonomous Weapons & Drone Systems
Location: Onsite -Leander, TX
Type: Full-Time
Eligibility: U.S. Citizenship or ITAR-Eligible Status Required
Build the intelligence behind the frontier of defense.
Wild West Systems designs and builds autonomous drones and munitions for America and her allies - fast, affordable, and battle-ready. As a Firmware Engineer, you'll develop embedded systems on STM32 Microcontrollers that drives our autonomous platforms: from flight control and perception to mission planning and target engagement.
If you crave ownership, speed, and tangible results, this is where firmware meets steel.
About Wild West Systems
Wild West Systems is a defense technology startup redefining autonomous edge defense through modular, AI-powered weapon systems - designed, built, and launched in the USA.
We fuse domain mastery with creativity to deliver advanced capabilities for modern asymmetric warfare. We move fast, build hard, and engineer for real-world impact.
If you're ready to build software that commands machines defending tomorrow's freedom, welcome to the frontier.
Responsibilities
  • Develop embedded systems on STM32 microcontrollers
  • Low level driver development, peripherals, communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN) and real time systems design
  • Comfortable working in the intersection of electronics, sensors, actuators, motor control and embedded software
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
  • 3+ years of professional Firmware engineering experience.
  • Solid Mechatronics background
  • Experience developing production-quality firmware in Rust.
  • Troubleshooting hardware/software interactions
  • ITAR Eligibility: To Conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. Citizen or National, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 9 U.S.C section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C section 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in defense, aerospace, robotics, or autonomy.
  • Familiarity with drone/UAV systems, real-time operating systems, or embedded development.
  • Experience at a high-growth startup or technology company with strong engineering practices.
  • Experience using the Embassy asynchronous embedded Framework
  • Experience taking systems from prototype through deployment

Benefits / Compensation Overview
We are always looking for good people! Wild West Systems is committed to providing its satisfaction and productivity.
  • Bi-weekly pay schedule
  • Stock Options provided with every offer
  • Healthcare insurance premium paid at 100% for every employee, 90% for dependents
  • Vision and Dental premium paid at 100%
  • Life Insurance

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