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Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

$109K - $150K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... autonomous systems, underwater communications, GPS denied navigation, acoustic systems, underwater ...

SAIC

Senior Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

$109K - $150K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... autonomous systems, underwater communications, GPS denied navigation, acoustic systems, underwater ...

SAIC

Senior Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

$109K - $149K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... autonomous systems, underwater communications, GPS denied navigation, acoustic systems, underwater ...

SAIC

Senior Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

$109K - $149K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... autonomous systems, underwater communications, GPS denied navigation, acoustic systems, underwater ...

SOSi

Senior Software Systems Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

This role combines software architecture and systems engineering expertise to prototype advanced, multi-domain autonomy, AI-enabled command and control, and distributed system-of-systems operations.

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Autonomous Systems Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$60.6K

$144.1K

$189.1K

How much do autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems engineer in Washington is $144,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $177,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington? For Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings:
Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,083 per year, or $69.3 per hour.
Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer

SAIC

Springfield, VA • Hybrid

$109K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2611032
Location: Springfield, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-04-06
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC is seeking a dynamic and innovative Maritime Technology Systems Engineer to join our Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) team. Our team is at the forefront of maritime technology, delivering cutting-edge capabilities that shape the future of maritime operations. This position will be located onsite at our office in Springfield, VA.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
We are looking for a passionate and driven Maritime Technology Systems Engineer who thrives on tackling the latest technological challenges. The ideal candidate will be a proactive self-starter, ready to make immediate contributions in a fast-paced and innovative environment. This role requires a blend of technical acumen and programmatic expertise to support our customer in delivering pioneering maritime technologies.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Systems Engineering and Programmatic Support: Provide high-level systems engineering expertise for technology system development, including requirements development, acquisition, integration, prototyping, testing, evaluation, and deployment. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Project Management: Support technical project and systems engineering management, including Concept of Operations (CONOPs) generation, requirements development, performance work statements, and integrated milestone/schedule development. Ensure projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
  • Contract Management: Assist in contract management efforts, including developing contract documents for industry partner awards. Ensure that contract specifications align with technological goals and project requirements.
  • Technical Reviews and Compliance: Conduct thorough reviews of systems development documentation, technical proposals, and use-case specific CONOPs to ensure compliance with government requirements. Compile findings and present recommendations in formal reports.
  • Status Reviews and Facilitation: Participate in and support system, technical, and program status reviews. Manage and facilitate integrated product teams and working groups to ensure seamless coordination across all project phases.
  • Strategic Planning: Collaborate with government project officers and leadership to develop multi-year strategies, annual technology roadmaps, action plans, and resource allocation decisions. Track milestones and evaluate progress toward strategic objectives.
  • Industry Awareness: Stay abreast of the latest developments, trends, and innovations in maritime technology. Analyze industry happenings and incorporate relevant advancements into project strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
  • Communication and Documentation: Draft formal presentations, proposals, technical papers, meeting agendas, and other communications. Participate in executive-level meetings and program briefings. Track tasks, actions, and pending decisions, and coordinate with a cross-functional team to compile responses to customer tasks.

Qualifications
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND CLEARANCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical field such as engineering, physical sciences, mathematics, or operations research; additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • A minimum of nine (9) years or more of experience providing technical project management and systems engineering in support of DoW and/or IC programs; at least 5 years or more in Science and Technology and/or Research and Development project management.
  • System development and/or field experience in any of the following areas: unmanned underwater vehicles, robotics, autonomous systems, underwater communications, GPS denied navigation, acoustic systems, underwater power systems, and/or autonomy development for unmanned assets.
  • Diplomatic, tactful, and strong interpersonal and professional skills to work effectively in politically sensitive environments.
  • An active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for access to sensitive compartmented information (TS/SCI).
  • The ability to complete a counter-intelligence scope polygraph (post-hire).

DESIRED EXPERIENCE:
  • An active Top Secret clearance with access to SCI and CI Polygraph.
  • Advanced degree in a scientific or technical field (Physics, Engineering, Operations Research).
  • PMP and/or other professional certifications.

SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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