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Uav Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Swift Engineering

UAV Electrical Engineer

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Electrical Engineer to design, integrate, and own the complete electrical architecture of advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role is critical to the ...

Swift Engineering

UAV Mechanical Engineer

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Description Overview We are seeking an experienced UAV Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, and integration of unmanned aerial vehicle structures and mechanisms. This role focuses ...

Swift Engineering

UAV Test Engineer

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Test Engineer to plan, execute, and analyze test activities for advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role works closely with the design and engineering ...

General Atomics

UAV Systems Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

The UAV System Specialist will be responsible for the research, coordination, development, and release of assigned field bulletins in support of GA-ASI objectives to improve product safety and ...

New

General Atomics

UAV Systems Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

The UAV System Specialist will be responsible for the research, coordination, development, and release of assigned field bulletins in support of GA-ASI objectives to improve product safety and ...

Zone 5 Technologies

UAV Avionics Assembler I

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$29 - $37.75/hr

Role Summary The UAV Avionics Assembler I supports the assembly of avionics hardware and sub-assemblies under close supervision. This role focuses on learning aerospace manufacturing standards, tools ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsUav JobsUav Jobs in California

Uav information

See California salary details

$24.5K

$69.7K

$159.1K

How much do uav jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav in California is $69,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,189.00 and $99,881.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV?

A UAV, or unmanned aerial vehicle, is an aircraft operated by onboard computers or remote control. This type of vehicle is also referred to as a drone. UAVs are one of the three major parts of an unmanned aircraft system, which also includes a human controller and systems that allow for communication between the controller and the ground. In recent years, UAVs have expanded from the military to areas like agricultural, scientific, recreational, and commercial activities. Today, this kind of machine may be used to take aerial photographs, deliver packages, spray pest-control chemicals over crops, or even race other drones.

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

To thrive as a UAV Operator, you need strong technical skills in piloting drones, understanding aerodynamics, and interpreting aerial data, typically supported by relevant certifications such as FAA Part 107 or equivalent. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and remote sensing equipment is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication make operators stand out in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, compliant, and accurate operation of UAVs for various applications such as surveying, inspection, or aerial photography.

What are some common challenges UAV operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

UAV operators often encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, regulatory compliance, and maintaining situational awareness during flights. Adapting to rapid technological advancements and troubleshooting technical issues with the drone or its software are also frequent aspects of the role. To address these challenges, operators should stay updated on local UAV regulations, participate in regular training, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Collaboration with team members, such as data analysts or surveyors, can also help ensure safe and efficient flight missions.

What is the difference between Uav vs Drone Operator?

AspectUavDrone Operator
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, remote pilot licenseFAA Part 107 certification, remote pilot license
Work EnvironmentField, outdoor, industrial sitesField, outdoor, industrial sites
Industry UsageMilitary, commercial, researchCommercial, media, inspection
Job FocusDesign, operation, maintenance of UavsFlying, capturing footage, data collection

Uav (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) is a broad term for drone technology, including design and development. Drone Operator specifically refers to the person flying and managing drones for tasks like filming or inspections. While both roles require similar certifications and work in outdoor environments, Uav roles often involve technical design, whereas Drone Operators focus on piloting and data collection.

Is drone flying a good career?

Drone flying is a growing profession that involves operating unmanned aerial vehicles for purposes such as photography, surveying, and inspection. It requires technical skills, knowledge of aviation regulations, and often certification, making it a viable career path with increasing demand across various industries.
More about Uav jobs

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

The most popular types of Uav jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Uav jobs?

Cities in California with the most Uav job openings:

Uav jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,728 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

UAV Electrical Engineer

San Clemente, CA • On-site

Swift Engineering
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Swift Engineeringexternal

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated UAV Electrical Engineer to design, integrate, and own the complete electrical architecture of advanced unmanned aerial vehicle systems. This role is critical to the performance, reliability, and scalability of the UAV platform and requires close collaboration with a small, high-performance engineering team.
The ideal candidate is hands-on, self-driven, and comfortable taking full ownership of complex electrical systems from concept through flight.
Salary Range: $130,000 to $150,000
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and validate the complete electrical network of the UAV
  • Design and review custom circuit boards (PCB design) for avionics, power distribution, payloads, and communication systems
  • Own all radio communication systems, including command & control, telemetry, and payload data links
  • Integrate and manage battery management systems (BMS) and power electronics
  • Support integration of onboard payloads and sensors
  • Collaborate closely with avionics, software, mechanical, and systems engineering teams
  • Support system integration, ground testing, and flight testing activities
  • Perform troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and iterative design improvements
  • Develop and maintain electrical documentation, schematics, wiring diagrams, and interface definitions

What we Offer
  • Full system ownership and technical leadership responsibility
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge UAV platforms
  • Collaborative, high-performance engineering culture
  • Direct impact on vehicle capability and mission success

Required Qualifications
  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering
  • 5+ years of experience in electrical engineering for UAVs, aerospace, robotics, or complex embedded systems
  • Strong experience with circuit board design, schematic capture, and layout
  • Solid understanding of UAV communication systems and RF integration
  • Experience with power distribution, power electronics, and battery systems
  • Ability to work effectively in a small, fast-paced, high-performance team environment
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of owning systems end-to-end

Preferred Qualified
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • Familiarity with solar power systems, energy harvesting, or long-endurance platforms
  • Experience with avionics integration and EMI/EMC considerations
  • Background in UAV, aerospace, or high-reliability systems
  • Experience supporting flight test and operational deployments

Benefits
  • 9/80 Schedule
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance - 100% covered for Employees
  • Dental Insurance - 100% covered for Employees
  • Life Insurance - 100% covered by Swift, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
  • 401k with company match
  • Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a holiday hiatus in December, and highly competitive PTO plans.
  • 16 weeks of paid Caregiver & Wellness Leave to care for a family member, bond with your baby, or tend to your own medical condition.
  • Family Planning & Parenting Support: Fertility (eg, IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carrier coverage with additional benefits and resources to provide support from planning to parenting.

About Swift Engineering
If you're passionate about engineering, innovation and making a difference, we invite you to join the Swift Engineering family. Together, we are shaping the future of aerospace and creating technologies that will change the world.
The pay range for this role is:
130,000 - 150,000 USD per year (Swift Engineering)

Apply