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Entry Level Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

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 ...

Zetier

Mid-Level CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Zetier

Mid-Level CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Development on embedded platforms (uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) * Reverse engineering experience ... Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) * Successfully led small cross-domain ...

Zetier

Principal CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

... uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) • Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) • ... software itself (git, svn, mercurial) • Developed software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) • ...

Anthem Engineering

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

Anthem Engineering

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

Anthem Engineering

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Software developer roles and responsibilities include providing expertise in the full software ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

Zetier

Mid-Level CNO Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... uBoot, drone firmware, IOT) • Reverse engineering experience (gdb, Binary Ninja, IDA Pro) • ... software on mobile platforms (Android, iOS) • Successfully led small cross-domain development ...

Leonardo DRS

Software Engineer II

Germantown, MD · On-site

$92 - $119/hr

Software Engineer II Location: Germantown, MD, US, 20876 Job ID: 115049 DRS RADA Technologies, a ... counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance. Job ...

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All JobsDrone Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Drone Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Drone Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Drone Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$27.2K

$118.8K

$214.1K

How much do entry level drone software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level drone software engineer in Washington, DC is $118,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $135,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level drone software engineer do?

An Entry Level Drone Software Engineer is responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining software that controls drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This includes working on flight control systems, navigation algorithms, and integration with hardware components. They often collaborate with hardware engineers and other software developers to enhance drone performance and capabilities. Typically, they use programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java, and may work on projects involving autonomous flight, sensor integration, and data processing.

What are the typical projects an entry level drone software engineer works on, and how do they collaborate with hardware teams?

As an Entry Level Drone Software Engineer, you'll often work on projects such as developing flight control algorithms, integrating sensors, or optimizing communication between drones and ground stations. Collaboration with hardware teams is crucial, as software must be tested and fine-tuned to ensure compatibility with the drone's physical components. Regular cross-functional meetings and joint testing sessions are common, allowing you to learn about hardware constraints and contribute to system-level troubleshooting. This collaborative environment helps you build a strong foundation in both software engineering and embedded systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drone software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drone Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in programming languages like Python or C++, and a basic understanding of robotics or embedded systems. Familiarity with drone control software, simulation tools, and version control systems such as Git is typically expected, along with relevant certifications like FAA Part 107 if working directly with drone operations. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set candidates apart in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable drone software, ensuring system integration, and collaborating efficiently on complex technical projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drone Software Engineer vs Entry Level Robotics Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Drone Software EngineerEntry Level Robotics Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; familiarity with drone hardware and softwareBachelor's in Computer Science, Robotics, or related field; knowledge of robotics frameworks
Work EnvironmentDeveloping drone control systems, testing in outdoor or lab settingsProgramming robotic systems, simulation, and hardware integration
Industry UsageUnmanned aerial vehicle companies, defense, surveyingManufacturing, automation, research labs

While both roles involve software development for autonomous systems, the Entry Level Drone Software Engineer focuses specifically on drone hardware and flight control, whereas the Entry Level Robotics Software Engineer covers a broader range of robotic platforms and systems. The choice depends on your interest in aerial vehicles versus general robotics applications.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drone Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Drone Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drone Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drone Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Drone Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drone Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,767 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Software Engineer - Entry Level

Herndon, VA • Remote

VivSoft Technologies
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about VivSoft Technologiesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Software Engineer - Entry Level
Location: Remote
Clearance Required: Top Secret  
Position Type: Full-Time 
About the company:  
At VivSoft, we aim to solve complex federal problems using emerging and open technologies in a collaborative and rewarding environment. VivSoft is a diverse team of strategists, engineers, designers, and creators experienced in building high-performance, effective software, with a focus on impactful organisational design and software delivery dynamics. We build secure Software Factories based on DoD reference designs and NIST Frameworks for Cloud and DevSecOps. These factories deliver AI/ML Applications, Data Science Platforms, Blockchain and Microservices for DoD, Healthcare and Civilian Agencies
Position Overview 
VivSoft Technologies is seeking an Entry Level Software Engineer to join the DCSA NBIS DISS/PVAAMS team. Working under the guidance of senior engineers, you will contribute to the development and sustainment of mission-critical personnel vetting software used across the Department of Defense. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your federal IT career in a modern cloud-native DevSecOps environment. 
ROLE SUMMARY
Applies fundamental concepts, processes, practices, and procedures on technical assignments. Performs work that requires practical experience and training. Work is performed under supervision. 0-2 years of work experience.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
•         Supports design, coding, testing, debugging, and implementation activities under the guidance of senior developers.
•         Assists in translating project requirements into working software components.
•         Follows established Agile methodologies and principles for software development.
•         Participates in code reviews and applies feedback to improve the quality and functionality of assigned work.
•         Helps identify and resolve basic technical issues and defects under supervision.
•         Documents work performed and contributes to technical documentation for assigned tasks.
•         Communicates status, questions, and blockers to supervisors and team members in a timely manner.
EDUCATION
•         Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
•         0-2 years of relevant work experience in software development or a related technical field.
•         Foundational knowledge of at least one programming language.
•         Basic understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) concepts.
•         Ability to work effectively under supervision as part of a team.
•         Strong verbal and written communication skills.
•         U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance/suitability determination, as required by the contract.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
•         Exposure to Agile/Scrum development environments.
•         Familiarity with version control tools such as Git.
•         Coursework or internship experience involving cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).
•         Willingness to learn new tools, languages, and frameworks as project needs evolve.
CERTIFICATIONS
•         Relevant industry certifications are a plus but not required (e.g., CompTIA Security+, AWS Cloud Practitioner).
Benefits:  
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans (Healthcare benefits are 100% employer-paid for employees only)  
  • Life Insurance  
  • Paid Time Off (Flexible/Combined PTO, Bereavement Leave, 11 Company Paid Holidays)  
  • 401K Retirement Plan with employer match  
  • Professional Development Training Reimbursement.

 

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