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Uav Flight Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Controls Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We're hiring a Flight Controls / Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineer to help move these systems from controlled indoor environments into reliable outdoor operation. You'll analyze real flight ...

Design, execute, and evaluate UAS/UAV flight test events * Analyze telemetry, flight logs, and engineering data to assess system performance * Develop scripts and tools to visualize and process test ...

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Uav Flight Control Engineer information

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How much do uav flight control engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for uav flight control engineer in the United States is $82.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77.40 and $90.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a UAV flight control engineer do?

A UAV Flight Control Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing the control systems that allow unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, to fly safely and efficiently. They work on algorithms, sensors, and software that manage flight stability, navigation, and autonomous operations. Their role often involves collaborating with hardware engineers, conducting simulations, and performing real-world flight tests to ensure that the UAV meets all required performance and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAV flight control engineer?

To thrive as a UAV Flight Control Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control systems, and embedded software, often backed by a relevant engineering degree. Experience with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, programming languages such as C/C++, and familiarity with autopilot systems like PX4 or ArduPilot are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies ensure reliable UAV performance, safety, and innovation in a rapidly evolving technological field.

What are some common challenges faced by UAV flight control engineers when integrating new sensors or payloads?

UAV Flight Control Engineers often encounter challenges related to system compatibility and maintaining flight stability when integrating new sensors or payloads. Ensuring that added equipment does not interfere with the aircraft's balance or existing onboard systems is crucial, as even minor changes can affect control algorithms and overall performance. Engineers must collaborate closely with hardware teams and conduct extensive ground and flight testing to validate integration, often requiring iterative adjustments to both software and hardware. This process demands strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of UAV architecture.

What are popular job titles related to Uav Flight Control Engineer jobs?

For Uav Flight Control Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Uav Flight Control Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $171,051 per year, or $82.2 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer (UAV Embedded)

Roseville, CA • Hybrid

Kratos Defense
National Security and International Affairs • 1 - 5K employees

$220K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.

  • Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.

  • Mentors mid-level Software Engineers.


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 a Principal Software Engineer V (UAV Embedded), 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++ 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

•             Mentors mid-level Software Engineers

•             Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA

Compensation: $220,000 - $250,000


Required Experience:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS - A qualified candidate should have the expected year of service based on the JD. However, we can factor in entry level V qualified candidates in the compensation range.

•             Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, 18 YOE in lieu of BS degree.

•             15 years of C or C++ programming experience

•             3+ years aerospace/aviation/UAV software engineering 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

•             Able to obtain and 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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