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Uav Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Data collection of technical, programmatic, and cost data for Department of War (DoW) aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs. * Research and data entry into customer databases

Lidar Calibration Analyst

Fairfax, VA · On-site +1

$55K - $71K/yr

Experience in alignment of terrestrial, mobile, UAV lidar datasets, or experience in academic environments is also desirable. Additional preferred candidate experience would include airborne lidar ...

Lidar Calibration Analyst

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$55K - $71K/yr

Experience in alignment of terrestrial, mobile, UAV lidar datasets, or experience in academic environments is also desirable. Additional preferred candidate experience would include airborne lidar ...

RF Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$100 - $165/hr

UAV/UAS experience a plus Special Note Education requirement: * BS Electrical Engineering and > 5 years of experience (LEVEL II) or * MS Electrical Engineering or Equivalent and > 15 years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Uav information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Uav jobs in Reston, VA?

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

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:

Infographic showing various Uav job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Journeyman Cost Estimator

ACT1 Federal

Arlington, VA

$115K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Title: Journeyman Cost Estimator

Location: Arlington/Crystal City, VA

Category: Proposal-**Contingent upon contract award**

Schedule (FT/PT): FT

Travel Required: N/A

Shift: Day

Remote Type: Hybrid

Clearance Required: Secret (or Secret Eligible)

Division: Ops

Salary Range: $115,000-$141,000

Who is ACT1 Federal?

ACT1 Federal is a 100% employee-owned company supporting the Department of Defense and Federal civilian agencies for nearly 30 years. Our core capabilities include weapon systems engineering, logistics, space domain expertise, global defense and security, business and financial management for security assistance and major defense articles, and military training and Arctic security.

Join us in delivering mission-critical solutions and industry-leading talent to advance the missions of our partners, organizations, and communities we serve.

Description

ACT1 Federal is looking for a journeyman-level cost estimators who have experience in cost analysis principles including, but not limited to

Cost/Technical - Expertise in DAF weapon systems/system-specific cost/engineering experience to be able to identify appropriate acquisition and O&S cost drivers and document current technology issues/trends/changes driving costs.

Cost Estimating - Demonstrated understanding of the connections of cost drivers and estimating the acquisition and O&S costs of weapon systems and subsystems.

Data collection - Demonstrated ability to collect and normalize cost, technical, and programmatic data from Government and Industry entities. Knowledge of the government systems to which their assigned project relates, including but not limited to: Defense Cost and Resource Center (DCARC) data collection process and demonstrated experience in the use of and analysis of CSDRs and CPRs. Knowledge of the DCARC data system(s) (i.e., DACIMS, CADE). Knowledge of the AFTOC system.

Data analysis & cost tools - Demonstrated ability to analyze data and develop cost estimating methods and tools.

Responsibilities:

  • Data collection of technical, programmatic, and cost data for Department of War (DoW) aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs.
  • Research and data entry into customer databases
  • Statistical analysis and development of cost estimating relationships (CERs)
  • Development of cost models and/or development on independent cost estimates
Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
  • Must have at least five (5) years of cost analysis experience.
  • Active secret clearance
Benefits
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance 
  • ACT1 Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) 
  • Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance 
  • Company Paid Short-Term Disability  
  • Voluntary Long-Term Disability 
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) 
  • 401K with employer match 
  • Paid Time Off  
  • Paid Holidays 
  • Parental Leave 
  • Military Leave 
  • Education, Training & Professional Development 
  • Voluntary Accidental Injury/Critical Illness/Hospital Care 
  • Voluntary Pet Insurance, Legal Resources, and Identity Protection 

 Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.