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Uav Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Electronics/Avionics Tech II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Assemble major functional subassemblies for the UAV which incorporate many of the harnesses manufactured in the area. * This position works with management and engineering for direction on new ...

Electronics/Avionics Tech II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Assemble major functional subassemblies for the UAV which incorporate many of the harnesses manufactured in the area. * This position works with management and engineering for direction on new ...

NPI Test Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Internship, capstone, undergraduate research, Formula SAE, robotics, UAV, or other hands-on engineering project experience. * Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, Git, or automated test ...

Product Engineer III

Petaluma, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Worker Type Regular Summary As a Product Engineer III at AeroVironment, one sustains engineering support for UAV systems for military and commercial applications. Includes design modifications of ...

Product Engineer III

Petaluma, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Worker Type Regular Summary As a Product Engineer III at AeroVironment, one sustains engineering support for UAV systems formilitary and commercial applications. Includes design modifications of ...

NPI Test Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

  • Life

  • Retirement

Internship, capstone, undergraduate research, Formula SAE, robotics, UAV, or other hands‑on engineering project experience. * Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, Git, or automated test ...

New

Electrical Engineer II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$82K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Familiarity with Small UAV subsystems and associated software * Proficient with office software, computer-based productivity tools and other software tools in one's area of expertise * Some travel ...

Electrical Engineer II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$82K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Familiarity with Small UAV subsystems and associated software * Proficient with office software, computer-based productivity tools and other software tools in one's area of expertise * Some travel ...

Product Engineer III

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$101 - $153/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This individual will be a part of a design team focused on development of the next generation UAV systems and their subsystems. This includes all levels and facets of design from conceptual clear ...

New

Associate Land Surveyor

Petaluma, CA

$45 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

UAV / UAS operation, data acquisition, and data reduction experience a plus * Must possess good interpersonal skills and effective written and oral communication skills * Right-of-way mapping and ...

Electrical Engineer II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$82 - $116.03/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Familiarity with Small UAV subsystems and associated software * Proficient with office software, computer-based productivity tools and other software tools in one's area of expertise * Some travel ...

New

Electrical Engineer II

Petaluma, CA

$82K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Familiarity with Small UAV subsystems and associated software * Proficient with office software, computer-based productivity tools and other software tools in one's area of expertise * Some travel ...

Quality Technician II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Represents the Quality Department in witnessing and documenting UAV flight acceptance test activity. Position Responsibilities * Processes inbound or outbound FAI and deliverable submissions ...

Quality Technician II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Represents the Quality Department in witnessing and documenting UAV flight acceptance test activity. Position Responsibilities * Processes inbound or outbound FAI and deliverable submissions ...

Uav information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$27.8K

$79.3K

$180.9K

How much do uav jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav in Santa Rosa, CA is $79,275.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,418.00 and $113,556.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Uav jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Uav jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Uav jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Uav job openings:

Infographic showing various Uav job openings in Santa Rosa, CA 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 $79,275 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Electronics/Avionics Tech II

AeroVironment

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Worker Type

Contractor


Job Description

Summary

The Electronics/Avionics Technician II position is critical in ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our avionics systems. This position will be responsible for performing advanced troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance on a variety of aircraft systems, including navigation, communication, and flight control systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of electronic systems and will be proficient in utilizing diagnostic equipment and troubleshooting techniques. The successful applicant will have a keen attention to detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines. This position necessitates a high degree of technical competence and the ability to interpret complex technical manuals and schematics.

Position Responsibilities

  • Monitoring and servicing systems
  • Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting equipment
  • Running tests and completing reports
  • Updating and improving existing systems
  • Repairing or replacing faulty equipment
  • Inspecting buildings, equipment, and systems
  • Developing and implementing preventative maintenance procedures
  • Managing heating and plumbing systems (Remove)
  • Planning and scheduling repairs
  • Use work orders to determine the type and quantity of wire harness and assemblies to manufacture.
  • Follow assembly drawings and work instructions to manufacture wire harnesses.
  • Ability to master the basic skills needed to solder, strip, crimp, perform heat shrink, manage cable shields including foil and braid.
  • Assemble circular connectors based on standard operating procedures.
  • Assemble major functional subassemblies for the UAV which incorporate many of the harnesses manufactured in the area.
  • This position works with management and engineering for direction on new assemblies.
  • Work with the production assistant on new work orders and the stock room personnel to acquire kits to build work orders.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
  • 1 - 2 years of working experience required.
  • Excellent wire soldering, stripping, crimping, and heat shrink skills, cable shields including foil and braid.
  • Capable of reading and understanding assembly drawings, and written work instructions to produce the highest quality avionics wire harness cables and assemblies.
  • Adept at wire harness assembly utilizing schematics, and wiring diagrams.
  • Experience using dedicated contact crimping tools for attaching connector contacts.
  • Experience assembling circular connectors.
  • Strong work-ethic and the flexibility to work in a dynamic environment.
  • Certifications IPC 610, J-STD-001, IPC/WHMA-A-620
  • Previous experience in wire harness manufacturing role for a UAV company.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Good analytical, time management and organizational skills.
  • Basic computer skills and proficiency with office software and productivity tools.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

Physical Demands

  • Ability to sit, stand, stoop, reach, lift (up to 10 lbs.), bend, etc. Hand and wrist dexterity to utilize the computer.
  • May require travel to sites/program and special functions.

Environmental Conditions Critical to Performance:

  • Work is in an office environment, climate controlled through central air conditioning/heating.
  • Ability to be qualified physically for respirator use, initially and ongoing as required.
  • May have some exposure to outside environment while traveling.


Clearance Level

No Clearance

AeroVironment considers several factors, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data,sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.

What AeroVironment employees say

Pay

Benefits

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