Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Do you have a passion for maritime robotics, autonomy, and AI?

Do you like to take ownership of technical problems, seek creative solutions, and thrive in a fast-paced team environment? 

Are you looking to take on new and exciting challenges and lead collaborative teams?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a Maritime Autonomous Systems Engineer to help the US Navy prototype and adopt new maritime robotics technologies for uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs), uncrewed undersea vehicles (UUVs), and other robotic vehicles.  In this role, you will have a direct impact on the Navy’s biggest challenges as you apply your systems engineering, test, and team leadership skills to achieve the goals of APL prototype projects and modernize our sponsors’ acquisition approach for autonomous systems. You will be joining a highly creative, adaptable, and success-driven group, where you will help us build on APL's legacy of scientific research and development and trusted service to the nation.

As a Maritime Robotics Systems Engineer you will...

• Perform systems engineering in development of new systems featuring advanced software and sensing capabilities. Tasks will include developing design reference missions, requirements, and measures of performance; architecture design, performance analysis; and test design and coordination.
• Choose how best to apply systems engineering best practices to autonomy, AI, and uncrewed vehicles, ranging from early prototypes to production by the Navy and other sponsors.  Employ Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Digital Engineering practices, tailored to support prototyping projects and their transition to acquisition.
• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary technical teams at APL who are performing design trade studies, requirements analysis, mission modeling, and prototyping of software and hardware for maritime uncrewed systems. 
• Oversee the design, integration, and testing of autonomous and remotely operated maritime vehicles and autonomous control software.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on maritime robotics technologies, providing guidance on best practices and emerging trends.
• Collaborate with the US Navy and other sponsors as well as their performers within the Government and Industry.
• Plan, organize, and lead technical reviews including the development of technical products and briefings.
• Design, coordinate, and execute testing of autonomous systems through software-in-the-loop Modeling and Simulation and in-water test.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelors in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field.
• Have 4+ years of relevant Systems Engineering experience related to US Navy or DOD platforms. 
• Have experience developing and integrating uncrewed vehicles, autonomy software, and/or maritime systems. 
• Have experience building and leading technical engineering teams through studies, requirements development, system design, prototyping, integration, and test. 
• Have experience working with the US Navy or other government sponsors in a DOD research and development and/or acquisition environment.
• Possess outstanding organization and planning skills, social skills, and written and oral communications skills.
• Are willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level 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 an M.S. or Ph.D. in Engineering or a related technical field.
• Have experience designing, integrating, and testing of software, sensors, payloads, and vehicle control systems for maritime platforms.
• Have applied your Systems Engineering and Test & Evaluation skills for the prototyping of US Navy USV, UUVs, or other US Navy uncrewed systems.

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.