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Uav Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Chief Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

Layout system design plans and interfaces for new UAV products and platforms * Work within a team of multidisciplinary engineers and specialists throughout the life of UAV design and integration ...

New

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

Layout system design plans and interfaces for new UAV products and platforms * Manage tactical engineering efforts, interfacing between different engineering and test disciplines * Draft and develop ...

Belcan, LLC

Design Engineer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Job Title: Design Engineer Location: Tulsa, OK Zip Code: 74120 Pay Rate: $75-$90/ hr. Job Type ... Composite design experience in aerospace, defense, space, UAV, rotorcraft, or advanced ...

Belcan

Design Engineer

Tulsa, OK

$75 - $90/hr

Job Title: Design Engineer Location: Tulsa, OK Zip Code: 74120 Pay Rate: $75-$90/ hr. Job Type ... Composite design experience in aerospace, defense, space, UAV, rotorcraft, or advanced ...

Belcan

Design Engineer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Job Title: Design Engineer Location: Tulsa, OK Zip Code: 74120 Pay Rate: $75-$90/ hr. Job Type ... Composite design experience in aerospace, defense, space, UAV, rotorcraft, or advanced ...

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Uav Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do uav design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges UAV Design Engineers face when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

UAV Design Engineers often work alongside specialists in avionics, software, mechanical engineering, and regulatory compliance. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these disciplines, particularly when integrating new technologies or adapting designs to meet both performance and safety standards. Navigating differing priorities—such as balancing aerodynamic efficiency with payload requirements—requires strong collaboration and problem-solving skills. Regular team meetings and project management tools are typically used to keep everyone aligned and to address integration issues early in the design process.

What is the difference between Uav Design Engineer vs Uav Systems Engineer?

AspectUav Design EngineerUav Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Engineering, systems-focused certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, prototype testingSystems integration, testing, and troubleshooting
Industry UsagePrimarily involved in designing UAV hardware and aerodynamicsFocuses on UAV system integration, software, and electronics

Uav Design Engineers primarily focus on creating the physical and aerodynamic aspects of UAVs, while Uav Systems Engineers handle the integration of hardware, software, and electronic systems. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ, making them complementary in UAV development projects.

What are UAV Design Engineers?

UAV Design Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, developing, and testing unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). They work on the aerodynamics, structural design, propulsion systems, and control systems of UAVs to ensure they meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. These engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create UAVs for applications such as surveillance, mapping, agriculture, and delivery services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAV Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAV Design Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, strong knowledge of aerodynamics, and experience with UAV systems, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or CATIA), simulation tools, and familiarity with avionics and embedded systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These skills are crucial to developing innovative, reliable UAVs that meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards in a rapidly evolving field.
What cities are hiring for Uav Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Uav Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Uav Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Uav Design Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Uav Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
NIWC - Graduate Student I - UAV/ Robotic Design, Development, and Integration Project (Task No. 4...

NIWC - Graduate Student I - UAV/ Robotic Design, Development, and Integration Project (Task No. 4...

San Diego State University Research Foundation

San Diego, CA • On-site

$22.84/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

San Diego State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

334th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Overview
The hourly rate for this position is $22.84 per hour for Graduate Student I and is non-negotiable.
This position is open until filled
Under direction, incumbents must have course work in the discipline requested on the task order Statement of Work.
This Statement of Work outlines the need for student services in the design, development, and integration of UAV and Robotic systems. The student will apply advanced engineering principles to develop UAV and Robotic prototypes, integrate UAV systems, and conduct performance assessments. The work involves using cutting-edge tools for unmanned system design, control systems development, sensor integration, and flight and field testing.
The RESTORE project aims to research and develop UAV systems and robotics capable of performing complex missions in various operational environments. This initiative is crucial to advancing unmanned capabilities within the Navy and DOD, ensuring that the systems developed are reliable, efficient, and meet operational requirements. The student will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to explore innovative unmanned solutions, focusing on both hardware and software components.
Responsibilities
The student contractor shall provide analytical and technical support in the following areas as specified under individual task orders, to the work sponsor:
UAV/Robotic Design and Development:
  • Assist with the conceptual and detailed design of UAV airframes using CAD software.
  • Assist with the assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of UAV/Robotic prototypes.
  • Contribute to the development of autonomous flight control algorithms, including path planning, obstacle avoidance, and decision-making systems.
  • Support the integration of sensors and payloads into unmanned platforms, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance.
  • Assist with the development and testing of unmanned systems in simulated and real-world environments, including the setup of test protocols, data collection and analysis.
  • Participate in the design and implementation of ground control systems for UAV operation and monitoring.
  • Aid in the development of AI-based solutions for enhancing autonomy, including machine learning techniques for real-time decision making.
  • Assist in the development of communication systems for UAV-to-UAV and UAVto-ground station data transmission.
  • Develop and sustain software for UAV/Robotic control and mission planning, ensuring robust and secure operation.
  • Assist in ensuring UAV/Robotic compliance with relevant safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications
Graduate Student 1: Under general direction, incumbents must be enrolled in a masters degree program related to the required discipline requested on the task order statement of work. Under general direction, incumbents must be enrolled in a masters degree program related to the required discipline requested on the task order statement of work.
Minimum Qualifications Requirements:
Graduate Level 1: Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with coursework or experience relevant to UAV design and development.
Desired Coursework and/or relevant work experience:
  • UAV Design and Development
  • Autonomous Systems
  • Control Systems Engineering
  • Robotics
  • AI and Machine Learning
  • Sensor Integration
  • Computer Vision
  • Embedded Systems
  • Power Systems

Additional Qualifications Desired:
  • Experience with CAD software for UAV design (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA)
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB
  • Knowledge of AI/ML techniques applied to autonomy
  • Familiarity with UAV simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, ROS)
  • Experience with UAV flight control systems and autopilot software (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot)
  • Experience in integrating hardware and software components into UAV systems
  • Experience with communication protocols for UAV systems (e.g., MAVLink)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and in team settings

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION:
  • This position will require the employee to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
  • The student will work at NIWC Pacific Old Town OT2 Room 1656. The student will be working primarily with Code 43170. Telework arrangements may be available, in compliance with NIWC protocols. In-person meetings may be required.
  • Due to the regulations established by the Department of Defense, only US Citizens may qualify.
  • This is a student position and is limited to working 20 hours per week.
  • This position will remain open until filled.
  • Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
  • Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
  • San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.
  • Employment decisions are based on an individual's qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support.
  • SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.
  • SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.

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