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Uav Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Work within a team of multidisciplinary engineers and specialists throughout the life of UAV design and integration efforts * Conceptualize system architecture for upgrades and enhancements to ...

Zone 5 Technologies

UAV Avionics Assembler III

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$29 - $37.75/hr

Role Summary The UAV Avionics Assembler III is a senior contributor responsible for complex, high ... This role involves working closely with engineers, production technicians, and operations teams to ...

Scout AI

Mission Operator - UAV

Paso Robles, CA

$24.25 - $29.75/hr

The Role We're hiring a UAV Mission Operator to lead the drone side of our Mission Operations team ... Together you decide what gets tested, in what order, and what engineering hears back.

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Uav Engineer information

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$32.6K

$88K

$140.1K

How much do uav engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav engineer in California is $88,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV engineer?

A UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains drone systems for various applications, including military, commercial, and research purposes. They work with hardware and software components such as flight controllers, navigation systems, communication systems, and sensors. UAV Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize drone performance, ensure regulatory compliance, and address challenges like aerodynamics, power efficiency, and automation.

What does a UAV engineer do?

A typical day for a UAV Engineer often involves designing and testing UAV components, writing and debugging control software, and analyzing flight data to optimize performance. You may participate in collaborative meetings with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, mechanical engineers, and project managers, to coordinate design efforts and resolve technical challenges. Field testing UAV prototypes is also common, requiring on-site troubleshooting and real-time adjustments. The role blends hands-on technical work with documentation and compliance tasks to ensure projects meet both engineering and safety standards.

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

To thrive as a UAV Engineer, you need a strong background in aeronautical engineering or robotics, proficiency in programming (such as C++ or Python), and knowledge of UAV design principles. Familiarity with CAD software, flight simulation tools, embedded systems, and FAA drone regulations is typically required, along with certifications like Part 107 for commercial drone operation. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in cross-functional projects. These skills ensure safe, efficient UAV development and integration in diverse environments, meeting both technical and regulatory standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Uav Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Uav Engineer jobs in California?

For Uav Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Uav Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Uav Engineer jobs in California are:

Uav Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Engineer job openings in California 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 $88,015 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Defense

Roseville, CA • Hybrid

$160K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.
Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.
At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical software for our next-generation UAV flight computers. You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.


WHAT YOU'LL DO 

  • Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
  • Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
  • Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports
  • Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications
  • Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA (Full remote considered for highly qualified candidate)

Compensation: $160,000 - $225,000


Required Experience:

  • REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  •  Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 15 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
  • 10 years of C or C++ programming experience
  • Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
  •  Demonstrated understanding of software development life-cycle and clearly document software requirements.
  • Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates
  • May be required to obtain a maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship)


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
• Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
•Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Office and or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
• 5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.

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