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Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

eSimplicity

Senior Systems Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$149K - $175K/yr

This role focuses on building intelligent, multi-step, tool-using agents that can autonomously ... Bachelor's Degree and 10+ years of systems engineering experience * Experience designing ...

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Autonomous Systems Engineer information

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$51.9K

$123.5K

$162.1K

How much do autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems engineer in Maryland is $123,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $152,400.00 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 Maryland? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland? For Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland are:
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Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Maryland as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,467 per year, or $59.4 per hour.

Senior Robotics Engineer for Tailored Autonomous Systems Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 72 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about robotics, autonomous systems, and advanced mission capabilities?
Do you enjoy leading multidisciplinary teams through the development, integration, and transition of complex autonomous systems?
Are you interested in shaping the future of robotics and autonomy for critical national security missions?
The Tailored Autonomous Systems Group (QPJ) is seeking a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership for the design, development, integration, testing, and deployment of advanced robotic and autonomous systems. Our team develops low-size, weight, and power (SWaP) robotic platforms and autonomy solutions that operate in challenging and dynamic environments.
As a senior member of the team, you will serve as a technical leader across multiple projects, working closely with sponsors, engineers, and researchers to define system architectures, guide technical execution, and transition advanced capabilities into operational use. You will help shape the strategic direction of QPJ's robotics and autonomy portfolio while contributing directly to the nation's most challenging mission problems.
As a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer, you will...
  • Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams through system architecture, requirements development, integration, test, and transition activities for advanced autonomous systems.
  • Serve as a technical lead, chief engineer, or senior systems engineer on autonomy-focused development efforts.
  • Lead system architecture development, interface definition, requirements allocation, and technical baseline management across hardware, software, sensing, communications, and autonomy subsystems.
  • Conduct and lead technical trade studies, design reviews, risk assessments, and performance analyses to support critical program decisions.
  • Lead verification, validation, and test activities, including simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), laboratory integration, and field experimentation.
  • Guide development of autonomy capabilities including perception, planning, navigation, controls, decision-making, and multi-agent coordination.
  • Interface directly with government sponsors, performers, and stakeholders to define technical objectives, communicate progress, and shape future program direction.
  • Mentor junior engineers and researchers in systems engineering, robotics, and autonomy development.
  • Support proposal development, strategic planning, and business development activities that expand group's technical portfolio.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have at least 8 years of relevant professional experience developing, integrating, testing, or fielding complex engineering systems.
  • Have experience leading technical teams through system design, development, prototyping, integration, and test activities.
  • Have experience developing and integrating robotic systems, autonomous systems, embedded systems, or other mission-critical technologies.
  • Have experience conducting system-level trade studies, technical risk management, and performance analyses.
  • Have strong technical communication skills and experience presenting technical information to sponsors and senior leadership.
  • Have experience programming in Python, C++, or similar languages.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in Robotics, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Have experience serving as a Technical Lead, Chief Engineer, Principal Investigator, or Project Manager on advanced technology programs.
  • Have demonstrated experience leading systems engineering activities including requirements development, architecture definition, integration, verification, validation, and transition.
  • Have experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies, including SysML and Digital Engineering practices.
  • Have experience developing autonomous systems, robotic platforms, uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), uncrewed ground vehicles (UGV), maritime systems, or distributed autonomous systems.
  • Have expertise in perception, SLAM, planning, controls, AI/ML, human-machine teaming, or multi-agent autonomy.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

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