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Uav Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bestgate Engineering

UAV Software Engineer (C#)

Bestgate Engineering is seeking a UAV Software Engineer to join their Unmanned Aerial Vehicle engineering group. The role involves designing and developing ground control software and on-board ...

Bestgate Engineering

UAV Software Engineer (C#)

They are looking for a UAV Software Engineer to design and develop ground control software and on-board communications systems for drone platforms. Responsibilities : • help design, develop and ...

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Uav information

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$25K

$71.2K

$162.5K

How much do uav jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav in the United States is $71,207.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities are hiring for Uav jobs? Cities with the most Uav job openings:
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What states have the most Uav jobs? States with the most job openings for Uav jobs include:
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Uav jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,207 per year, or $34.2 per hour.
Electrical Engineer - UAV Avionics & Power Systems

Electrical Engineer - UAV Avionics & Power Systems

LiquidPiston

Suffield, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

LiquidPiston
This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per week, and the company will be relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026.
About Us
LiquidPiston is revolutionizing propulsion with our ultra-efficient, compact rotary X-Engine platform. Our engines deliver unmatched power density and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for next-generation aerospace applications including UAVs, eVTOL, hybrid-electric propulsion, and advanced defense systems. As we rapidly scale our aerospace-focused programs, we are building a world-class team to deliver flight-ready propulsion solutions.
Role Overview
The Electrical Engineer – UAV Avionics & Power Systems will own the design, development, and integration of all electrical and electronic systems for LiquidPiston-powered aerial platforms. This hands-on role combines power electronics, avionics integration, embedded controls, and aerospace-grade reliability engineering. You will work side-by-side with propulsion, airframe, and flight-control teams to deliver certifiable, high-performance electrical architectures that enable longer endurance, heavier payloads, and mission-critical reliability.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and integrate engine control units (ECUs), power distribution, and avionics
  • Interfaces for hybrid-electric and conventional UAV propulsion systems
  • Design and develop the electronic control system architecture for of UAV propulsion and flight control systems
  • Integrate and configure flight controllers and engine control units with onboard avionics, sensors, and communication modules
  • Develop and implement embedded software/firmware for control, safety, and telemetry functions
  • Apply systems engineering principles to ensure seamless integration of electronics, software, and mechanical components
  • Support testing, debugging, and validation of integrated electromechanical UAV systems
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to meet system-level performance and reliability goals
  • Document system design, software and hardware interfaces, and integration processes
Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science/ Engineering, or a related field related field
  • Must be a US person
  • 5+ years of experience in aerospace electrical/electronics design (UAV, eVTOL, general aviation, or defense programs strongly preferred)
  • Proven track record designing flight-critical or safety-critical electronics (redundancy, voting, dissimilar systems a plus)
  • Expertise with electromechanical systems, sensors, communication protocols (CAN, UART, SPI, MAVLink, I2C), and PCB design
  • Familiarity with model-based design tools (MATLAB/Simulink Embedded Coder) and HIL testing a strong plus
  • Demonstrated ability to take electronics from concept through flight-test and into production or certification
  • Self-starter who thrives in a fast-moving, resource-constrained environment typical of aerospace startups
Benefits & Perks
  • Flexible PTO: We value work-life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge.
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage—you choose what works best for you.
  • Equity Participation: Permanent employees receive RSUs (Restricted Stock Units).
  • 401(k) Match: We offer a 401k w/100% matching up to 3% of your salary and then 50% of contributions between 3-5%
  • Career Growth: Ongoing training, mentorship, and learning opportunities to accelerate your growth.
Our Culture
At LiquidPiston, we embrace challenges, move fast, and celebrate curiosity. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. We understand that innovation involves risk—and we’re not afraid to fail as we move forward.
Equal Opportunity Employer
LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against, and receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status or disability.
All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

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