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Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

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We are a deep-tech robotics company building industrial, fully autonomous systems designed to ... high-impact engineering problems · Generous compensation, including stock options, plus full ...

The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering ... It's what sets us apart, enabling us to be an autonomous yet agile business that delivers huge ...

The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering ... It's what sets us apart, enabling us to be an autonomous yet agile business that delivers huge ...

The Systems Engineer will support a high priority, high visibility development, integration, and ... This individual is expected to quickly come up to speed, operate with a high degree of autonomy ...

Our Systems Engineers will support a high priority, high visibility development, integration, and ... This individual is expected to quickly come up to speed, operate with a high degree of autonomy ...

Our Systems Engineers will support a high priority, high visibility development, integration, and ... This individual is expected to quickly come up to speed, operate with a high degree of autonomy ...

Our Systems Engineers will support a high priority, high visibility development, integration, and ... This individual is expected to quickly come up to speed, operate with a high degree of autonomy ...

Our Systems Engineers will support a high priority, high visibility development, integration, and ... This individual is expected to quickly come up to speed, operate with a high degree of autonomy ...

It's what sets us apart, enabling us to be an autonomous yet agile business that delivers huge ... Citizenship Systems Engineer 4 - Standards Support (Location - Laurel, MD) * Bachelor's degree or ...

Showing results 21-40

Autonomous Systems Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$53.2K

$126.4K

$165.9K

How much do autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems engineer in Baltimore, MD is $126,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,400.00 and $156,000.00 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 as an autonomous systems engineer?

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 popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

For Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,406 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

2026 PhD Graduate - Autonomous Systems Seeker and Sensor Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 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

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you looking for a career building deep expertise in a technical area critical to our national defense?
Do you wish to collaborate with and learn from some of the country's top seeker and sensor subject matter experts?
If so, the Strike Guidance, Navigation, Controls (GNC), and Seekers group is looking for newly graduating PhD engineers, mathematicians, physicists, and scientists like you!
Our group's vision is to ensure that the United States maintains a technological advantage on the world stage by leading the development and prototyping of advanced weapons and autonomous systems. We provide state-of-the-art design solutions with a focus on seekers and sensors, guidance, navigation and control systems. We also specialize in embedded systems and multi-disciplinary design, simulation and optimization. If you are graduating in Engineering or Science and desire a rewarding career designing and evaluating advanced weapons and autonomous systems seekers and sensors, we'd love to talk to you about joining our team! We are seeking candidates with academic backgrounds and interest in one or more of the following technical areas:
  • Electromagnetics
  • RF System Design
  • RF Antennas and Technologies
  • RF Communications
  • Radar Systems
  • Optics
  • EO/IR System Design
  • EO/IR Imagers
  • Focal Plane Arrays
  • Digital Signal/Image Processing
  • Detection and Classification Algorithms
  • Circuits/Electronics, Software Defined Radios and Hardware Design

As a member of our team you will...
  • Have the opportunity to conduct cutting edge seeker and sensor research, design, modeling, simulation and analysis while collaborating with adjacent technical domains in the development of next generation autonomous systems and weapons.
  • Develop innovative ways of simulating and predicting seeker and sensor performance in complex operational environments.
  • Lab test seeker and sensor hardware and software to identify operational capabilities and limitations.
  • Work closely with seeker and sensor subject matter experts who will train and mentor you on your path to attaining deeper technical knowledge and experience.
  • Collaborate with our teams of engineers and interact with government sponsors, including platform designers in multi-disciplinary optimization studies for early phase vehicle development.
  • Have the opportunity to continue your education through a variety of educational opportunities such as technical short courses, graduate degree programs, and many more.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in an Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics.
  • Are passionate about creative problem solving and applying your skills to the design and development of our nation's next generation weapons and autonomous systems.
  • Have academic background and interest in one or more of the technical areas listed above.
  • Have conducted research; completed one or more internships; and/or possess practical skills in RF, EO/IR or related fields.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret 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 classroom, project or internship experience working with seekers, sensors and/or autonomous systems.
  • Have familiarity with complimentary disciplines such as: modeling, simulation and analysis; design optimization; software or algorithm development; and hardware testing.

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
$245,000 Annually

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