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Uav Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Uav Design information

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$39

$59

$81

How much do uav design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav design in Virginia is $59.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.25 and $71.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Uav Design position, and why are they important?

To thrive in UAV Design, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, mechanical design, and robotics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, UAV simulation tools, and knowledge of FAA regulations or UAV-specific certifications is essential. Creativity, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, innovative, and regulation-compliant UAVs that meet specific project needs and perform reliably in real-world environments.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in UAV Design?

Professionals in UAV Design typically spend their days developing UAV concepts, creating technical drawings and models with CAD software, and collaborating with engineers to refine designs and integrate new technologies. They may also participate in prototype testing, data analysis from flight tests, and troubleshooting to address design challenges. Frequent communication with cross-disciplinary teams, such as electronics, software, and compliance specialists, is common to ensure all aspects of the UAV meet project and regulatory standards. This role offers a dynamic mix of hands-on engineering, creative problem-solving, and collaboration, constantly pushing the boundaries of unmanned aerial technology.

What is a UAV Design job?

A UAV Design job involves creating, developing, and testing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various applications, such as surveillance, delivery, or research. Professionals in this field work on aerodynamics, material selection, propulsion systems, and control mechanisms to enhance UAV performance. They collaborate with engineers, programmers, and manufacturers to ensure the UAV meets design specifications and operational requirements. This role requires expertise in aerospace engineering, CAD software, and flight simulation tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Uav Design jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Uav Design job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,247 per year, or $59.7 per hour.
UAV/Advanced Mechanical Engineer

UAV/Advanced Mechanical Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Manassas, VA • On-site

$124K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Basic Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 5+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree plus 3 years of job-related experience.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is obtainable within a reasonable amount of time after hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Work with other engineers to design, build, and test the UAV.
  • Assemble UAVs to prepare for flight testing
  • Perform engine bench testing to ensure engines are ready for flight testing
  • Interface with the Lead Designer and Senior Technical Engineer on a daily basis.
  • Perform flight ready verification of the UAV.

What you'll experience:
  • Rapid research, design, and prototyping changes
  • UAV flight experience
  • Move from R&D to production ready design

What you bring to the table:
  • Team player
  • Mechanical Engineering experience
  • Experience designing UAVs or small, lightweight aircraft.
  • Hands-on experience assembling prototype systems
  • Design expertise in Creo Design Advanced
  • Proficiency with drawings per ASME Y14.100.
  • Proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
  • MS Office products experience
  • Atlassian Suite experience

What sets you apart:
  • Experienced with Creo Parametric
  • Experienced with AoA, LOB, prop pitch, thermodynamics, etc
  • Experienced with small engine aircraft
  • Experienced with Ardupilot or MAVLink
  • Experience with DFM and DFA for machined, injection molded, and sheet metal parts.
  • Experienced with analysis and design of UAVs.
  • Able to lead ME and EE at all levels of experience
  • The innate ability to build your design in a lab and successfully complete a flight.

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is on-site. While on-site, you will be part of the Manassas, VA facility.
#CJ2
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $124,216.00 - USD $137,803.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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