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Uav Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Heven AeroTech

Director of Operations

Sterling, VA

Develop and execute operational strategies that support company growth and UAV program delivery. * Oversee day-to-day operations including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain, logistics ...

Heven AeroTech

Director of Operations

Sterling, VA

Develop and execute operational strategies that support company growth and UAV program delivery. * Oversee day-to-day operations including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain, logistics ...

Heven AeroTech

Director of Operations

Sterling, VA · On-site

Develop and execute operational strategies that support company growth and UAV program delivery. * Oversee day-to-day operations including manufacturing, production planning, supply chain, logistics ...

Helsing

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

The role As a Design Engineer, you will work on innovative UAV platforms, modifying and adapting existing mechanical and electrical designs to meet US customer requirements and specifications. You ...

Helsing

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

The role As a Design Engineer, you will work on innovative UAV platforms, modifying and adapting existing mechanical and electrical designs to meet US customer requirements and specifications. You ...

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All JobsUav JobsUav Jobs in Reston, VA

Uav information

What are some common challenges UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) 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 are UAVs?

UAVs, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, are aircraft that operate without a human pilot onboard. They can be controlled remotely by an operator or fly autonomously using pre-programmed flight paths and onboard sensors. UAVs are widely used for various applications, including aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, delivery services, and military operations. Their ability to reach inaccessible areas and collect data efficiently makes them valuable tools across many industries.

What is a UAV pilot's salary?

A UAV pilot's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified pilots with specialized skills in drone operation and maintenance tend to earn higher wages, especially in sectors like aerial photography, surveying, and inspection services.

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 in various industries.

What does an UAV do?

A UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) operator or technician manages and operates drones for tasks such as aerial photography, surveillance, mapping, or inspection. They may be responsible for drone maintenance, flight planning, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, often requiring knowledge of remote sensing tools and certification in drone operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) 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 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.

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 drone job pays the most?

Commercial drone pilots working in industries such as oil and gas, construction, or aerial surveying often earn the highest salaries, especially with advanced certifications and experience. Senior roles like drone operations managers or specialized surveyors can also command higher pay, often exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the industry and location.
More about Uav jobs
What job categories do people searching Uav jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Uav jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Uav jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Uav job openings:
Uav jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

UAV/Advanced Mechanical Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Manassas, VA • On-site

$124K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 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

129th of 246 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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