ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Engineer Autonomous Flight Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Near Earth Autonomy

Software Integration Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$101K - $135.90K/yr

Aerospace Systems Engineer Company Overview Near Earth Autonomy is creating a future where autonomous flight is commonplace and safe. Our technology enables aircraft ranging in scale from sub-meter ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsEngineer Autonomous Flight Jobs

Engineer Autonomous Flight information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do engineer autonomous flight jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer autonomous flight in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineer Autonomous Flight, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineer Autonomous Flight, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, robotics, control systems, and programming, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink), autopilot systems, sensor integration, and certifications in UAV technologies are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing safe, reliable, and innovative autonomous flight systems that meet industry standards and operational requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by an Engineer in Autonomous Flight, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in Autonomous Flight often encounter challenges related to integrating complex software and hardware systems, ensuring reliability and safety in unpredictable environments, and meeting rigorous regulatory standards. Addressing these issues requires strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and regulatory specialists. Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, sensor technology, and aviation regulations also helps engineers anticipate and solve emerging problems efficiently.

What does an Engineer Autonomous Flight do?

An Engineer Autonomous Flight designs, develops, and tests systems that enable aircraft, such as drones or advanced air vehicles, to fly without direct human control. They focus on creating algorithms, integrating sensors, and ensuring the aircraft can navigate, avoid obstacles, and complete missions safely and efficiently. Their work involves collaboration with hardware and software teams, as well as staying updated on aviation regulations and safety standards. This role is crucial for advancing technologies like delivery drones, urban air mobility, and unmanned aerial vehicles used in various industries.

What is the difference between Engineer Autonomous Flight vs Engineer Drone Systems?

AspectEngineer Autonomous FlightEngineer Drone Systems
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace, robotics, or related fields; certifications in UAV or autonomous systemsBachelor's or higher in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering; certifications in drone technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace companies, autonomous vehicle development centersDrone manufacturing, testing facilities, field operations
Industry UsageDesigning and developing autonomous flight algorithms and systemsDeveloping drone hardware, software, and operational systems

Both roles involve working with unmanned systems, but Engineer Autonomous Flight focuses on creating autonomous flight capabilities and algorithms, while Engineer Drone Systems emphasizes hardware and software development for drones. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and focus within the UAV industry.

Infographic showing various Engineer Autonomous Flight job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Range Safety & Flight Termination Engineer

Mobius

Huntsville, AL

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Come join our team! Mobius is seeking an amazingly talented Range Safety & Flight Termination Engineer. In this role you will get to support the MDA Targets and Countermeasures Engineering Directorate providing assistance across the targets portfolio with flight termination system and range safety requirements development and verification, GFE and CFE hardware and software development, acceptance, qualification, integration, and checkout. This position is located in Huntsville, AL.

Duties of a Range Safety & Flight Termination Engineer may include: 

  • Support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Directorate for Test (DT) Targets program office by serving as Range Safety expert during Flight tests, Range Safety Working Groups, and functionality testing.
  • Provide oversight of requirements development and allocation and verification for targets flight termination system products, including autonomous flight termination systems, and associated range safety performance and/or oversight of GFE and CFE hardware and software development, acceptance, qualification, integration, and checkout. 

Qualifications

  • 10 + years of experience in defense and aerospace
  • Highly Desired - Familiarity with autonomous flight termination systems
  • Flight Test Range Safety experience.
  • Background in batteries, RF systems, ordnance and ordnance devices, antennas. Proficiency in Range Tracking Systems (inertial measurement, GPS, C-band tracking).
  • Proficiency with RCC-319 Flight Termination Commonality Standard and RCC-324 Global Positioning and Inertial Measurements Range Safety Tracking Systems Commonality Standard.
  • Works independently and/or leads teams to analyze and resolve problems.
  • Working knowledge of Range Safety Requirements.
  • Familiarity with flight safety analysis and analysis products.
  • Must be able to work in a dynamic environment and have the individual flexibility to work multiple actions simultaneously and resolve time sensitive issues.
  • Strong communication skills to include oral, written and briefing

Education

  • Master's degree and 12+ years working on missile defense-related or other complex, large DoD program or a Bachelor's degree and 20+ years working on missile defense-related or other complex, large DoD program.

Clearance

  • Active Secret clearance.

Apply