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Autonomous Navigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer - GNC

Arvada, CO · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

As a Systems Engineer - GNC, you will play a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge autonomous navigation and control systems for our lunar rovers. Working at the intersection of autonomy, robotics ...

As a Systems Engineer - GNC, you will play a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge autonomous navigation and control systems for our lunar rovers. Working at the intersection of autonomy, robotics ...

As a Systems Engineer - GNC, you will play a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge autonomous navigation and control systems for our lunar rovers. Working at the intersection of autonomy, robotics ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Washington, DC · On-site

$62.25 - $85.50/hr

... autonomous navigation systems • Experience leading technical teams, architecture decisions, or autonomy-focused development efforts • Experience integrating autonomous systems into operational ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Bowie, MD · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Experience with computer vision or autonomous navigation systems * Experience leading technical teams, architecture decisions, or autonomy-focused development efforts * Experience integrating ...

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Autonomous Navigation information

What is autonomous navigation?

Autonomous navigation refers to the technology and processes that enable vehicles or robots to move through an environment and reach a destination without human intervention. This involves using sensors, artificial intelligence, and algorithms to perceive the surroundings, plan paths, and avoid obstacles. Autonomous navigation is widely used in self-driving cars, drones, robotic vacuum cleaners, and industrial robots. The technology continues to evolve rapidly, enhancing safety, efficiency, and versatility across various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Autonomous Navigation roles, and why are they important?

To excel in Autonomous Navigation, you need a strong background in robotics, computer vision, sensor fusion, and algorithm development, typically supported by a degree in robotics, computer science, or a related engineering field. Familiarity with tools such as ROS (Robot Operating System), SLAM algorithms, LIDAR, and programming languages like Python or C++ is essential. Critical soft skills include problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability to rapidly changing technologies. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable navigation systems that can safely and efficiently operate in complex, real-world environments.

What is the difference between Autonomous Navigation vs Path Planning Engineer?

AspectAutonomous NavigationPath Planning Engineer
Required CredentialsDegree in Robotics, Computer Science, or related fields; experience with sensors and algorithmsSimilar credentials; focus on algorithms and robotics
Work EnvironmentRobotics labs, field testing, autonomous vehicle developmentRobotics teams, simulation environments, vehicle systems
Industry UsageAutonomous vehicles, drones, robotics systemsAutonomous vehicles, robotics companies, research institutions
Comparison FocusOverall navigation capabilities of autonomous systemsSpecific algorithms for generating feasible paths

Autonomous Navigation involves the entire process of enabling a robot or vehicle to move safely and efficiently in an environment, integrating perception, localization, and decision-making. Path Planning Engineer specializes in designing algorithms that determine the optimal route within the navigation system. While both roles require similar skills and work in related environments, Autonomous Navigation covers the broader system, whereas Path Planning focuses specifically on route generation.

How does an Autonomous Navigation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As an Autonomous Navigation engineer, you will frequently work alongside robotics hardware teams, software developers, and data scientists to integrate navigation algorithms into real-world systems. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to align on system requirements, troubleshooting integration issues, and field-testing prototypes. Effective communication and a willingness to iterate quickly are key, as navigation performance depends on close coordination between sensing, perception, and control subsystems. This collaborative environment provides valuable learning opportunities and exposure to various aspects of robotics development.
Infographic showing various Autonomous Navigation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.
Senior Applied Scientist, Last Mile Delivery Automation

Senior Applied Scientist, Last Mile Delivery Automation

Amazon

Bellevue, WA • On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,933 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

We are seeking a Senior Applied Scientist to drive innovation in machine learning and artificial intelligence for Amazon's autonomous delivery systems. In this role, you will develop novel algorithms and models that power our autonomous vehicle perception, prediction, and decision-making systems. You will combine rigorous scientific methodology with practical engineering to solve complex problems in real-world autonomous navigation and delivery.
Key job responsibilities
- Design and develop advanced machine learning models and algorithms for autonomous vehicle systems
- Lead research initiatives in areas such as computer vision, sensor fusion, behavioral prediction, and path planning
- Transform research concepts into production-ready solutions that meet strict safety and performance requirements
- Develop novel approaches to solve complex technical challenges in autonomous navigation
- Create and implement metrics and evaluation frameworks to measure model performance
- Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate ML solutions into the autonomous vehicle stack
- Publish research findings and represent Amazon at technical conferences
- Mentor junior scientists and contribute to building a culture of scientific excellence
A day in the life
A typical day for a Senior Applied Scientist begins with analyzing experimental results from recent model deployments

They might spend the morning developing new deep learning architectures for sensor fusion or improving prediction models for pedestrian behavior. Mid-day could involve collaborating with engineering teams to optimize model performance and reduce inference latency. Afternoon activities might include designing experiments to validate new approaches, reviewing research papers for potential application, and participating in technical discussions to solve challenging problems in perception or planning.

They would regularly engage in code reviews, documentation of methods, and mentoring of team members. The role requires balancing innovative research with practical implementation, ensuring that scientific advances translate into reliable autonomous system capabilities.
About the team
The Applied Science team within Amazon's Last Mile Delivery Automation organization focuses on developing cutting-edge machine learning solutions for autonomous systems. We work at the intersection of computer vision, deep learning, robotics, and control systems to create robust and scalable algorithms that enable safe autonomous operation

Our team combines expertise from diverse scientific backgrounds to tackle fundamental challenges in perception, prediction, and decision-making. We collaborate closely with software engineering teams to deploy our solutions across Amazon's autonomous delivery fleet.
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About Amazon

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Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US