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Executive Drone Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paladin Drones

Account Executive

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Paladin is transforming public safety with autonomous drone technology, aiming to be on the scene ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and customer success, to ...

Brinc Drones Inc

Account Executive, Fire/EMS

$80K - $160K/yr

BRINC is seeking a highly motivated Fire/EMS Account Executive to help expand the adoption of drone ... Collaborate with BRINC product, engineering, customer success, and implementation teams to ensure ...

New

Live Events

Executive Assistant

New Castle, PA

$72K - $95K/yr

... engineering moments of celebration and wonder. We are the people and the pride behind world-class fireworks displays, breathtaking drone light shows, and the special effects that give live events ...

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Executive Drone Developer information

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How much do executive drone developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive drone developer in the United States is $86,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Executive Drone Developer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As an Executive Drone Developer, you’ll regularly work alongside hardware engineers, software developers, product managers, and regulatory specialists to ensure seamless integration of drone technologies. This role often involves leading technical discussions, setting development priorities, and aligning project goals with broader business strategies. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both technical and business perspectives are crucial for navigating challenges and delivering innovative drone solutions. Cross-team collaboration is essential for coordinating testing, deployment, and compliance, ultimately driving project success.

What is an Executive Drone Developer?

An Executive Drone Developer is a professional who designs, develops, and manages advanced drone technologies, often overseeing the strategic implementation of drone solutions within organizations. This role typically blends technical expertise in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with leadership and project management skills. Executive Drone Developers may lead teams, coordinate large-scale drone projects, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations. They also keep up with the latest innovations in drone software and hardware to drive business growth and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Executive Drone Developer vs Drone Software Engineer?

AspectExecutive Drone DeveloperDrone Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; experience in drone technologyBachelor's or higher in Software Engineering, Computer Science; coding certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, project management, strategic planning in drone developmentDesigning, coding, testing drone software in R&D or tech teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, defense, aerospace, startups focusing on drone solutionsTech firms, R&D labs, aerospace companies developing drone applications
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Executive Drone Developer typically holds a leadership role, overseeing drone projects and strategic development, while the Drone Software Engineer focuses on coding and software design for drones. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Executive Drone Developer emphasizes management and strategic planning within the drone industry.

What is the highest paying drone job?

The highest paying drone jobs typically include roles such as drone operations manager, aerial survey pilot, or specialized drone engineer, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions usually require advanced certifications, technical skills, and experience in industries like construction, energy, or film production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive Drone Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Drone Developer, you need advanced expertise in software engineering, robotics, and aeronautical systems, typically supported by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with drone-specific programming languages, flight control systems, and certifications like Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate are commonly required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set candidates apart, enabling effective team management and stakeholder collaboration. These competencies are crucial for driving innovative drone solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading technical teams in a rapidly evolving industry.

Which country is no. 1 in drone technology?

The United States is widely recognized as a leader in drone technology, with significant advancements in military, commercial, and research applications. Many drone developers and manufacturers are based there, and the country invests heavily in innovation and regulation to support industry growth.

Will AI replace drone pilots?

As an Executive Drone Developer, understanding AI's role in automation is important; AI can assist with flight planning and data analysis, but human drone pilots are still essential for complex operations, decision-making, and safety oversight. Full automation replacing pilots is not yet widespread, and regulatory and technical challenges remain. Skilled pilots with knowledge of AI tools will continue to be valuable in the industry.

What is the 120m rule for drones?

The 120-meter rule for drones states that recreational and commercial drone operators must keep their drones within 120 meters (approximately 400 feet) of the ground or their control station to comply with regulations. As an executive drone developer, understanding this altitude limit is essential for designing compliant drone systems and ensuring safe operation within legal boundaries.
What cities are hiring for Executive Drone Developer jobs? Cities with the most Executive Drone Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Developer jobs? The most popular types of Drone Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Executive Drone Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Drone Developer jobs include:
Executive Drone Developer jobs near you
Drone Innovation Center Manager

Drone Innovation Center Manager

Full Sail University

Winter Park, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Full Sail University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

441st of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

If you're looking for the chance to learn, grow, and make a contribution to the community, look at employment opportunities with Full Sail University. You'll find your choice of career opportunities, great benefits, an environment that welcomes and values creativity, and a work experience that is both challenging and rewarding!
The Drone Innovation Center Manager is responsible for leading the operations, programming, and strategic development of Full Sail University's Drone Innovation Center. This position sits within the Emerging Technologies team, reports to the Executive Director of Emerging Technologies, and collaborates closely with faculty, academic leadership, industry partners, and cross-functional student teams to deliver an exceptional, hands-on learning environment. The Manager will oversee all aspects of facility operations, curriculum related projects, team leadership, and technology integration, ensuring the Center remains at the forefront of drone innovation in higher education.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Oversee daily operations of the Drone Innovation Center, including the following spaces: Advanced Airspace, Engineering & Manufacturing, Simulation & Programming, Communications, Remote Operations, and the Situation Room.
  • Collaborate with faculty and academic leadership across degree programs, including Simulation Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Live Event Production, and other programs, to develop and implement drone-focused projects and experiences that align with program curriculum and learning outcomes.
  • Develop concepts, strategies, and project plans with clearly defined objectives, milestones, and deliverables for drone programming, competitions, demonstrations, and research initiatives.
  • Manage a multidisciplinary team that may include engineers, student assistants, and third-party contractors to design and execute high-quality drone projects and educational experiences.
  • Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging drone technologies, tools, software platforms, and workflows to keep the Center's capabilities current and cutting-edge.
  • Plan and manage drone events, races, tournaments, live demonstrations, and other public-facing activities hosted at or in partnership with the Center.
  • Support and advise the Full Sail Drone Club, fostering student engagement and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
  • Maintain and enforce safety protocols, FAA regulations, and university policies governing drone operation within the facility.
  • Manage inventory, maintenance schedules, and procurement of drones, components, and facility equipment.
  • Maintain and expand professional knowledge through ongoing training, certifications, and participation in industry events related to unmanned aerial systems (UAS), autonomous navigation, and drone technology.
  • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive environment that encourages experimentation and creative problem-solving.

Other Responsibilities:
  • Adheres to the policies and procedures of Full Sail University.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of student and company information.
  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
  • Adheres to company attendance standards.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: ☒YES
If YES, then the below applies in addition to those listed in Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • May oversee Federal Work Study students associated with the Spatial Computing Innovation Lab.
  • Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains staff in their department.
  • Oversees the schedules and responsibilities of staff in their department.
  • Provides constructive and timely staff performance evaluations.
  • Follows established guidelines for employee disciplinary action as determined by Full Sail policies and procedures.

Competencies
  • Proven track record of managing technical facilities, programs, or cross-functional teams.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, interpersonal, and leadership skills with an ability to mentor both staff and students.
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with experience engaging students, faculty, executives, industry partners, and the public.
  • Creative thinker with a passion for technology-driven innovation in education.
  • Comfortable operating, troubleshooting, and teaching with a wide range of drone hardware and software platforms.
  • Agile and adaptable in a fast-evolving technology landscape.
  • Strong time management and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and events.
  • Professional demeanor with a focus on service, safety, reliability, and excellence.
  • Commitment to maintaining a collaborative and inclusive facility culture.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Detail-oriented with a strong safety mindset.
  • Ability to interact professionally and constructively with students and staff at all levels in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Education and/or Experience
The ideal candidate is an organized, technically skilled professional with hands-on experience in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drone engineering or operations, project management, and team coordination. They bring a balance of operational rigor, creative vision, and a genuine enthusiasm for immersive, technology-driven education. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Simulation Engineering, Game Development, Digital Media, or a related field is required. Equivalent professional experience in drone operations, UAS program management, or a related discipline will be considered.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire)
• Additional UAS certifications or advanced FAA credentials a plus
Computer/Equipment Skills
• Strong understanding of drone hardware platforms, flight controllers, and autonomous navigation systems.
• Proficiency with drone simulation software (e.g., VelociDrone or similar platforms).
• Experience with 3D printing, electronics assembly, or drone frame manufacturing preferred.
• Familiarity with AI, computer vision, and programming as applied to drone systems.
• Comfortable with live streaming, AV systems, and multimedia production tools as relevant to the Communications and Situation Room spaces.
Environmental Factors/Physical Demands
Work is performed in both an office and active facility environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may regularly interact with drone hardware, flight zones, manufacturing equipment, and AV systems. The employee must have the ability to maintain active communication with students, staff, and partners; access, input, and retrieve information from computer systems; and respond quickly in a dynamic lab setting. Subject to bending, reaching, kneeling, stooping, and lifting up to thirty (30) pounds.
Full Sail is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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