ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Drone Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Sr. Systems Engineer, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Amazon Prime Air (PA) is seeking a Sr Systems Engineer to oversee the development hardware and software integration within our ultra-fast drone delivery operations. This role will be responsible for ...

Amazon

Sr. Systems Engineer, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Amazon Prime Air (PA) is seeking a Sr Systems Engineer to oversee the development hardware and software integration within our ultra-fast drone delivery operations. This role will be responsible for ...

Helsing

Software Engineer, DevSecOps

Washington, DC · On-site

We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... The role You will join the Platform Engineering team as a security-focused engineer responsible for ...

Teal Drones

Software Engineer, QGC

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Software Engineer, QGC# Software Engineer, QGCSLC, UT 84115## Description## **Position Summary ... MAVLink & Drone Communication*** Implement and debug MAVLink message handling, routing, and ...

Applied Intuition, Inc.

$140 - $210/hr

This in-office expectation does not apply to contractor positions About the role Applied Intuition is looking for a Software Engineer (Drone Stack Team) to architect and field advanced autonomy and ...

Posted today

Helsing

Software Engineer, DevSecOps

Washington, DC · On-site

We build Altra, an AI-powered drone software platform, and HX-2, our autonomous drone. We are ... The role You will join the Platform Engineering team as a security-focused engineer responsible for ...

Hextronics

Full Stack Software Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

We design and manufacture drone-in-a-box systems that automate repetitive drone operations, taking ... engineer to help build and maintain the software powering our drone operations platform. You'll ...

Staffingine LLC

Drone Data Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$109K - $131K/yr

Drone Data Engineer Job Location: Houston, Tx Job Type: Contract * Drone Data Execution Engineer Skydio * Drone Operations Data Execution * Plan execute and optimize drone missions for inspection ...

Belcan

Software Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA

$104K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer with a focus on embedded software and a strong background in drone/unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), software development, testing and support. The ...

GliaCell Technologies

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$50 - $120/hr

Are you a Software Engineer who is ready for anew challengethat willlaunch your careerto the next ... Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during the hiring phase ...

Jobtailor

Associate Wireless Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

* Work directly alongside senior engineers and mentors to contribute to our Wi‑Fi and cellular ... Integrate radio hardware into our drone systems. * Write software across the Linux user space and ...

Wing

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · Hybrid

$144K - $189K/yr

Wing is looking for a Senior Staff Software Engineer to join our Ground Systems team. This role ... drone delivery network. Thriving on systemic complexity, you will leverage deep expertise in ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All Jobsfreelance JobsFreelance Drone Software Engineer Jobs

Freelance Drone Software Engineer information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance drone software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance drone software engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance drone software engineer do?

A Freelance Drone Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems for drones, often working independently on a contract or project basis. Their tasks can include programming flight controls, integrating sensors, processing aerial data, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). They may work with clients from industries like agriculture, surveying, cinematography, or delivery services to create custom drone solutions. This role requires strong programming skills, familiarity with robotics or embedded systems, and the ability to adapt to evolving drone technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance drone software engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Drone Software Engineer, you need expertise in programming (such as Python, C++, or ROS), embedded systems, and an understanding of UAV flight principles, often supported by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency with drone development platforms (like PX4, ArduPilot), simulation tools, and firmware development is typically required, and certifications such as Part 107 for commercial drone operation can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, self-management, and communication skills are vital for collaborating with clients and delivering independent project work. These competencies ensure that you can design, test, and deploy reliable drone software solutions that meet client needs and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance drone software engineers when working with clients on custom projects?

Freelance drone software engineers often encounter challenges such as clearly defining project requirements and expectations with clients who may not be familiar with technical details. Ensuring seamless integration between software, hardware, and flight controllers can be complex, especially when working remotely or with diverse drone platforms. Additionally, maintaining effective communication and managing timelines can be demanding when juggling multiple clients or projects. Staying updated with regulatory changes and ensuring compliance is also crucial in this rapidly evolving field.

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

AspectFreelance Drone Software EngineerDrone Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or engineering, with experience in drone technology and programming languagesUsually holds a degree in software engineering or related field, with specialized knowledge in drone systems
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remote or on-site at client locationsEmployed by companies or startups, working in office or dedicated development teams
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance roles across various industries like agriculture, surveying, and filmmakingFull-time roles within drone manufacturing, software firms, or tech companies

In summary, a Freelance Drone Software Engineer works independently on diverse projects, often remotely, while a Drone Software Developer is typically employed full-time within organizations specializing in drone technology. Both roles require similar technical skills but differ mainly in employment structure and work setting.

More about Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Drone Software Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Drone Software Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Drone Software Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs are:

Freelance Drone Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Drone Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Sr. Systems Engineer, Prime Air

Amazon

Seattle, WA • On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7,111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

Here at Amazon, we embrace our differences. We are committed to furthering our culture of diversity and inclusion of our teams within the organization. How do you get items to customers quickly, cost-effectively, and-most importantly-safely, in less than an hour.

And how do you do it in a way that can scale. Our teams of hundreds of scientists, engineers, aerospace professionals, and futurists have been working hard to do just that. We are delivering to customers and are excited for what's to come.

If you are seeking an iterative environment where you can drive innovation, apply state-of-the-art technologies to solve real world delivery challenges, and provide benefits to customers, Prime Air is the place for you. Come work on the Amazon Prime Air Team.
Check out more information about Prime Air on the About Amazon blog: https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/tag/drone
Amazon Prime Air (PA) is seeking a Sr

Systems Engineer to oversee the development hardware and software integration within our ultra-fast drone delivery operations.
This role will be responsible for ensuring high standards for certifying safety-critical software and hardware in airborne systems, working closely with design engineering staff powering a flywheel of continuous improvement in drone software design.
Partnering with the drone system development and various engineering disciplines, you will oversee development, verification, configuration management, and quality assurance to ensure compliance to Design Assurance Levels and software development standards.

Strong cross-functional engineering fundamentals skills are essential, as well as strong technical communication and documentation skills. Your ability to translate complex system functions into digestible insights and summarize effectively with stakeholders at all levels will be critical to success in this role.
This position may require a deemed export control license for compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Placement is contingent on Amazon's ability to apply for and obtain an export control license on your behalf.
Key job responsibilities
- Oversee software development, verification, configuration management, and quality assurance to ensure compliance to Design Assurance Levels and software development standards
- Communicate effectively across all organizational levels, presenting strategies and results to senior leadership and operational partners

What Amazon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Amazon logo

About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate, computer and electronic product manufacturing and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

View All Amazon Jobs

Apply