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Unmanned Systems Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Assemble, configure, test, and maintain unmanned systems and supporting hardware components. * Build, integrate, and troubleshoot drone platforms utilizing BetaFlight, ArduPilot, and PX4 flight ...

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Unmanned Systems information

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How much do unmanned systems jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for unmanned systems in Virginia is $32.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $37.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unmanned systems job?

An Unmanned Systems job involves designing, operating, and maintaining autonomous or remotely controlled vehicles, such as drones, robots, or underwater systems. These professionals work in industries like defense, agriculture, logistics, and surveillance. Responsibilities may include system programming, data analysis, troubleshooting, and mission planning. Strong technical skills in robotics, electronics, and artificial intelligence are often required.

What does an unmanned systems professional do?

Professionals in Unmanned Systems often spend their days planning and executing missions, operating and maintaining unmanned vehicles or drones, conducting data collection or surveillance, and troubleshooting technical issues. They frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and data analysts to ensure successful integration and operation of the systems. Attention to safety protocols and regulatory compliance is a regular part of the job. Additionally, ongoing training to stay current with emerging technologies is common, providing opportunities for professional growth in this rapidly evolving field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in unmanned systems?

To thrive in Unmanned Systems, you need strong skills in robotics, remote vehicle operation, systems integration, and often a background in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with industry-standard platforms such as UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) control software, ground control stations, and relevant certifications like Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (for drones) are important. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that help ensure mission success and operational safety. These competencies are crucial because unmanned systems roles often involve complex technical challenges, strict regulations, and collaborative project environments.

How much do unmanned systems make?

Salaries for unmanned systems professionals vary based on experience, role, and location, but entry-level positions typically start around $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Experienced engineers or specialists with advanced skills in drone technology, robotics, or automation can earn over $100,000 per year. Certifications and proficiency with specific tools or systems can also influence compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia?

For Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Unmanned Systems jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Unmanned Systems jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Unmanned Systems job openings:

Infographic showing various Unmanned Systems job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,405 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Unmanned Systems Technician

SkyBridge Tactical

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

SkyBridge Tactical is a Prime Contractor for MSOFS and a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL, founded in 2008 to support our customers’ global security, operational and training needs, focusing on mission success in the most challenging environments. SBT current contracts address U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Department of State (DoS) demand for highly skilled professionals to solve problems in the interest of national security.

The Unmanned Systems Technician assembles, integrates, operates, maintains, tests, and repairs unmanned systems and their electrical, mechanical, propulsion, communications, and embedded-control components. The technician converts engineering concepts into functional prototypes and field-ready systems.

Job duties:

  • Assemble, integrate, configure, test, operate, maintain, and repair Group 1 and Group 2 unmanned systems.
  • Integrate embedded systems, sensors, payloads, communications equipment, and mission technologies onto unmanned platforms.
  • Build and configure unmanned aircraft using BetaFlight, ArduPilot, PX4, and related flight-control technologies.
  • Select motors, electronic speed controllers, flight controllers, sensors, wiring, connectors, power supplies, and other electronic components.
  • Build, test, and troubleshoot analog and digital circuits and AC/DC electronic systems.
  • Use multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other diagnostic equipment to identify electrical and communications faults.
  • Install, solder, and de-solder electronic components, including surface-mounted devices and sensors.
  • Fabricate wiring harnesses, equipment mounts, housings, brackets, and prototype components.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment to perform system assembly, modification, and repair.
  • Use CAD software and additive-manufacturing equipment to create rapid prototypes and replacement components.
  • Operate FDM, SLS, and SLA 3D-printing systems and select appropriate printing materials.
  • Load, configure, compile, and troubleshoot firmware using integrated development environments, compilers, and hardware debuggers.
  • Apply working knowledge of C, C++, and Python when configuring systems or diagnosing lower-level technical problems.
  • Diagnose faults using technical manuals, system documentation, test data, and observed system behavior.
  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, servicing, component replacement, and functional checks.
  • Maintain system configuration records, maintenance histories, test results, discrepancy reports, and repair documentation.
  • Support ground and flight testing, demonstrations, operational exercises, fielding events, and mission rehearsals.
  • Work with engineers and end users to refine designs and resolve performance, reliability, and integration problems.
  • Maintain or obtain FAA Part 107 certification within six months of employment.

Minimum profile:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering/science discipline, or equivalent technician experience.
  • At least three years of relevant experience with a degree or seven years without a degree.
  • Recent hands-on Group 1 or Group 2 unmanned-system experience; relevant Group 3 experience may be considered.
  • Active Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibility.
Position is contingent on award and expected to start on 28 September 2026 with 1 base year and 4 option periods with a 6 month extension.
Travel: CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required for testing, exercises, demonstrations, deployments, and fielding
Location: Primarily on-site at Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Benefits Overview
SkyBridge Tactical LLC provides a comprehensive fringe benefits package designed to promote employee well-being, financial stability, and professional growth.
Employees receive Paid Time Off (PTO), federal holidays, and additional leave options, including bereavement, jury duty, and parental leave.
Position is contingent on award
SkyBridge also offers a range of medical insurance options, including plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and access to wellness resources, as well as global medical insurance options for OCONUS employees.
Additional benefits include Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, and coverage under Workers’ Compensation or Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance for eligible employees.
To support income protection and financial security, SkyBridge Tactical offers Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD amp;D) coverage, with options for Dependent Coverage.
Employees are also eligible to participate in a 401(k) Retirement Plan.
SBT recognizes employee contributions through performance-based bonuses, recognition programs, and referral bonuses and supports career growth through professional development opportunities, including training and certification programs.
Family leave options further support employees in balancing professional and family responsibilities.
Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.