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Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Caterpillar

Autonomy Systems Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$112K - $183K/yr

As a Systems Engineer, you will work as the engineering interface between L8 Autonomous Hauling Application teams and L6 base machine systems teams. You will be responsible for autonomy hardware and ...

Tech Tammina

Embedded Software Engineer 4

Mossville, IL · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Role: Embedded Software Engineer 4 Location: Mossville, IL (Onsite) Duration: 6-month contract ... autonomy software components across perception, localization, and planning layers to ensure systems ...

Tech Tammina LLC

Embedded Software Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer 4 location: Mossville, IL (Onsite) Duration: 6-month contract Core ... autonomy software components across perception, localization, and planning layers to ensure systems ...

DRW

Trade Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

We value autonomy and the ability to quickly pivot to capture opportunities, so we operate using ... As a Trade Systems Engineer , you'll have the opportunity to learn and grow while supporting our ...

Tech Tammina

Embedded Software Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer 4 location: Mossville, IL (Onsite) Duration: 6-month contract Core ... autonomy software components across perception, localization, and planning layers to ensure systems ...

TECH Tammina

Embedded Software Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer 4 location: Mossville, IL (Onsite) Duration: 6-month contract Core ... autonomy software components across perception, localization, and planning layers to ensure systems ...

Caterpillar

Senior Systems Integration Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Caterpillar is building advanced automation and autonomy solutions that help customers improve jobsite safety, productivity, and efficiency. We are seeking a Senior Systems Integration Engineer to ...

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All JobsAutonomous Systems Engineer JobsAutonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Autonomous Systems Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$51.8K

$123.3K

$161.8K

How much do autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems engineer in Illinois is $123,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $152,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior autonomous systems engineers, especially those with advanced expertise in robotics, machine learning, and control systems, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with experience, specialized skills, leadership roles, and working in industries like aerospace, defense, or autonomous vehicle development.

What does an Autonomous Systems Engineer do?

An Autonomous Systems Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes self-governing systems that operate with minimal human intervention. This includes robotics, self-driving vehicles, drones, and AI-driven automation. They work with sensors, machine learning, control systems, and software to ensure reliable decision-making and adaptability in dynamic environments. Their role often involves testing, simulation, and integration of hardware and software components to improve system efficiency and safety.

How much do autonomous systems engineers make?

Autonomous systems engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $90,000 and $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills in robotics, machine learning, and sensor integration can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Autonomous Systems Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autonomous Systems Engineer, you need strong expertise in robotics, control systems, sensor integration, and proficiency in languages such as Python or C++, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like ROS (Robot Operating System), MATLAB/Simulink, and experience deploying algorithms on embedded hardware are typically required. Effective problem-solving, strong teamwork, and clear communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable autonomous solutions, troubleshooting complex issues, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams for successful system deployment.

What are some common challenges faced by Autonomous Systems Engineers and how are they addressed?

Autonomous Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating diverse hardware and software components, achieving robust sensor fusion, and ensuring system reliability in unpredictable environments. Addressing these challenges typically involves rigorous simulation testing, iterative algorithm development, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams in software, hardware, and systems engineering. Engineers must also stay updated with advancements in machine learning and robotics to continually refine and enhance system capabilities. Employers support these efforts through ongoing training, collaborative problem-solving sessions, and investment in advanced prototyping resources.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced autonomous systems engineers working in specialized fields such as aerospace, defense, or advanced robotics can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with seniority, advanced skills in AI and machine learning, and leadership roles. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives in addition to base salary.

What do autonomous systems engineers do?

Autonomous systems engineers design, develop, and test systems that operate independently, such as self-driving vehicles or robotic automation. They work with sensors, algorithms, and control systems, often using programming languages like C++ or Python, and may require knowledge of machine learning, robotics, and embedded systems.
What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings:
Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,274 per year, or $59.3 per hour.
Senior Autonomy Systems Engineer

Senior Autonomy Systems Engineer

Caterpillar

Mossville, IL • On-site

$112K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 474 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

264th of 485 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Engineering
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
As an Senior Autonomy Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for helping to define the requirements and architecture for bringing an autonomous machine system together. The role will primarily focus on developing the system integration requirements for multiple systems within an autonomous machine within the Loading, Dozing & Compaction Application Team. These systems can include many different types of onboard electronic systems, as well as process and people interactions. The incumbent needs to be very detail oriented and work well with and through others. They will also need to be capable of making and communicating good decisions around the trade-offs between time, resources, and quality.
What You Will Do:
  • Applying new autonomous system solutions and technologies on a semi or full autonomous system
  • Decomposition of Customer requirements into (L6) system level requirements
  • Work closely with Machine System teams (L6) to determine the best way to deliver on machine autonomous features. Ensure clear documentation and traceability.
  • Integration and validation 1A Solutions on Surface Loading machines
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for Surface Loading Machine Autonomous Solutions
  • Communicates system readiness and technical risk to stakeholders

What You Have:
  • Communicating Complex Concepts:
    • Work with a global team to communicate the Why's and develop the How's of agreed features.
    • Clearly document the details for the system and ensure understanding and compliance with each subsystem team.
    • Communicate designs and tradeoffs with stakeholders at multiple levels.
  • Technical Excellence:
    • Proven ability to work on production products through design, implementation, customer rollout, and support.
    • Ability to decompose complex customer requirements into achievable technical requirements for the systems that make up the product.
    • Knowledge and experience with Autonomous Systems, preferably a Cat Command system
  • Influencing Through Expertise:
    • Strong working knowledge of the Caterpillar Command ecosystem in mining or construction, or other centralized control system architectures which can be drawn upon for design proposals and decisions.
    • Constantly staying abreast of advancements in the Autonomy and mining industries.
    • Provides evidentiary support while giving opinions or recommendations to influence decision making.
    • Conducts tasks in such a way as to build a strong reputation and credibility as an expert in the field.
  • Effective Communications:
    • Effectively communicates ideas and design tradeoffs to team members and stakeholders
    • Willing to spend the time to document designs, requirements, and success criteria to assure team member alignment
    • Clearly explains project goals to team members, keeps leadership informed of progress, and shares relevant updates with external partners
    • Uses data-driven arguments, active listening, and tailored messaging to persuade stakeholders and achieve consensus.

Consideration for Top Candidates:
  • A Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
  • Proven experience as a Systems Engineer supporting product development teams focusing on software and hardware development
  • Prior experience collaborating with systems integration and validation teams for engineering product development
  • Experience in Construction or Mining industry
  • Knowledge and experience with Wheel Loaders, Excavators, Hydraulic Mining Shovels or Tracked Loaders preferred

Additional Information:
  • This position requires the candidate to work full-time at the Mossville, IL or Dallas, TX Office
  • Domestic relocation assistance is available for this position.
  • Visa sponsorship is NOT available with this position.
  • This position will require up to 10% travel
  • #LI

Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $183,140.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
July 6, 2026 - July 26, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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