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Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Metron

Chief Engineer, Autonomous Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

Our team is seeking an accomplished technical leader to serve as the Chief Engineer for Autonomous Maritime Systems. The Chief Engineer provides senior-level technical authority for the design ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous ... System (ROS) or its equivalent • Active Security Clearance • Experience in Probability ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems.

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems.

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems.

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems.

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All JobsAutonomous Systems Engineer JobsAutonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Autonomous Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$126.1K

$165.6K

How much do autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems engineer in Virginia is $126,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $155,700.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings:
Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,124 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer

kgs

Arlington, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Koniag Management Solutions, LLC a Koniag Government Services company, is seeking a SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer with a TS/SCI security clearance to support KMS and our government customer at the Pentagon, Arlington, VA. This position is for a Future New Business Opportunity.   

We offer competitive compensation and an extraordinary benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 401K with company matching, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays, three weeks paid time off, and more.

Work Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Fifteen (15) years of hands-on technical engineering experience, with ten (10) years as an Autonomous Systems Engineer or in a closely related technical field.
  • Ten (10) years’ experience in end-to-end design and construct of complex autonomous systems.
  • Ten (10) years’ experience and extensive technical knowledge of C2 principles and experience integrating them into unmanned platforms.
  • Ten (10) years demonstrated expertise in both the development of unmanned systems (air, ground, or sea) and the domain of Counter-Uncrewed Systems (C-UXS).
  • Ten (10) years of expertise in the principles and application of FPV for controlling and operating unmanned systems.
  • Eight (8) years’ experience with demonstrated proficiency in using modeling and simulation environments to advance and validate system designs and operational concepts.

Education:

  • Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in engineering or science discipline relevant to the field of autonomous systems engineering.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

  • Military or OSW experience.
  • Demonstrated in-depth understanding of systems
  • command and control (C2) and experience analyzing
  • and developing counter C2 systems.

Clearance Requirement:

  • TS/SCI (SAP eligible)

Our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

The company is an equal opportunity employer. The company shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity (except where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification), national origin or ancestry, age, disability, citizenship, military/veteran status, marital status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to equal employment opportunity in all decisions related to employment, promotion, wages, benefits, and all other privileges, terms, and conditions of employment.

The company is dedicated to seeking all qualified applicants. If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply for a position on our website, please get in touch with Heaven Wood via e-mail at accommodations@koniag-gs.com or by calling 703-488-9377 to request accommodations.

Koniag Government Services (KGS) is an Alaska Native Owned corporation supporting the values and traditions of our native communities through an agile employee and corporate culture that delivers Enterprise Solutions, Professional Services and Operational Management to Federal Government Agencies. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Koniag, we apply our proven commercial solutions to a deep knowledge of Defense and Civilian missions to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables successful mission outcomes for our customers through solution-oriented business partnerships and a commitment to exceptional service delivery. We ensure long-term success with a continuous improvement approach while balancing the collective interests of our customers, employees, and native communities. For more information, please visit www.koniag-gs.com.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. Shareholder Preference in accordance with Public Law 88-352

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