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Remote Drone Developer Jobs in El Segundo, CA (NOW HIRING)

Remote Drone Developer information

See El Segundo, CA salary details

$18

$56

$87

How much do remote drone developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote drone developer in El Segundo, CA is $56.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.03 and $68.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote drone developer?

Remote Drone Developers are professionals who design, build, and maintain software or systems that control drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) from a remote location. They typically work on programming flight controls, developing autonomous navigation algorithms, integrating sensors, and ensuring safe remote operations. These developers often collaborate with hardware engineers to test and deploy drones for applications such as aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, or delivery. Working remotely, they leverage cloud-based tools and simulation environments to collaborate with teams and manage drone fleets efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote drone developer?

To thrive as a Remote Drone Developer, you need strong programming skills (commonly in Python, C++, or ROS), a background in robotics or computer engineering, and knowledge of drone hardware and aerodynamics. Experience with simulation tools (such as Gazebo or PX4), drone flight control software, and relevant certifications like Part 107 or industry-specific UAV credentials are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, remote collaboration, and effective communication skills distinguish top candidates in this field. These competencies are crucial for developing safe, reliable drone systems and efficiently working with distributed teams on complex, real-world challenges.

What are some unique challenges faced by remote drone developers when testing and debugging their code?

Remote Drone Developers often encounter challenges related to limited physical access to hardware, which can make testing and troubleshooting more complex than typical software development. Simulating real-world flight scenarios remotely requires robust virtual environments and careful coordination with onsite teams or automated testing rigs. Communication and collaboration tools are essential for syncing with hardware specialists, and developers must be proactive in documenting issues and sharing updates as drone firmware and software evolve. These factors make attention to detail and adaptability crucial skills in this remote role.

What is the difference between Remote Drone Developer vs Remote UAV Software Engineer?

AspectRemote Drone DeveloperRemote UAV Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science, robotics, or aerospace engineering; certifications in drone operation or software development are a plusSimilar credentials, often with specialized UAV or aerospace certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily remote, collaborating with drone manufacturing or tech companiesPrimarily remote, working with aerospace firms or defense contractors
Industry UsageUsed in commercial drone applications, agriculture, delivery servicesUsed in defense, surveillance, and aerospace industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for software development roles in drone techCompared for specialized UAV software roles in aerospace

Remote Drone Developers focus on creating software for commercial and consumer drones, while Remote UAV Software Engineers typically work on software for military or aerospace UAVs. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in industry focus and application.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Drone Developer jobs in El Segundo, CA?

For Remote Drone Developer jobs in El Segundo, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near El Segundo, CA are hiring for Remote Drone Developer jobs?

Cities near El Segundo, CA with the most Remote Drone Developer job openings:

Proposal and Capture Specialist

El Segundo, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are: 

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo,  we are focused on creating something entirely different - an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on.  Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures - where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You'll Do: 

As a Proposal Writer at Space Kinetic, you will play a critical role in securing the partnerships, contracts, and funding that power our mission. You will lead the development of highquality proposals for government agencies, commercial customers, and strategic partners: translating complex technical concepts into compelling, clear, and compliant narratives. This role sits at the intersection of strategy, engineering, and business development, offering a unique opportunity to shape how our technology is understood and adopted by the market. 

This is a full-time position that can either be worked onsite at the El Segundo office or remote.   

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Lead proposals from opportunity analysis and outlining through final submission.
  • Write technically accurate content for DoD, SBIR, NASA, commercial, and strategic opportunities.
  • Translate engineering and strategy inputs into clear narratives, graphics, and proposal components.
  • Ensure compliance with RFP, RFI, and BAA requirements and submission protocols.
  • Manage proposal schedules, content collection, technical reviews, color-team reviews, and production.
  • Maintain reusable content, including boilerplate, past performance, capability statements, and graphics.

 What It Takes:

  • Bachelor's degree in Writing, Engineering, Business, Communications, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of proposal writing, technical writing, or government contracting experience.
  • Understanding of government procurement, including FAR-based solicitations, SBIR/STTR programs, and OTA or commercial pathways.
  • Ability to translate complex technical information into clear and compelling content.
  • Strong writing, editing, organization, and project management skills.
  • Experience with compliance matrices, color reviews, proposal outlines, and related proposal tools.
  • Ability to manage evolving priorities in a fast-paced startup environment.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. TS/SCI clearance.

What We'd Love:

  • Aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing proposal experience.
  • Experience with large-scale IDIQ, BAA, FOA, or SBIR Phase II/III proposals.
  • Understanding of classified program workflows.
  • Experience creating graphics, infographics, or data visualizations.

 Where You'll Be:

  • The position can be onsite in El Segundo, CA or worked remotely.

What We Offer:  

  • Equity-Based Compensation
  • Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure

ITAR Requirements: 
This position is subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be a U.S. Person (this includes U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, Protected Individual as defined by law), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.