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Autonomous Systems Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our team works on a set of subject areas that feed into the design of an autonomous system. The ... Proven internship experience or possess extensive classroom project work in a subject matter in any ...

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Autonomous Systems Internship information

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How much do autonomous systems internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for autonomous systems internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autonomous Systems Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autonomous Systems Intern, you generally need a solid background in computer science, robotics, or engineering, with coursework or experience in algorithms, control systems, and machine learning. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python or C++, simulation tools like ROS (Robot Operating System), and version control systems (e.g., Git) is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating on complex technical projects. These skills and qualifications enable interns to contribute meaningfully to the development and testing of autonomous technologies in a fast-evolving field.

What is an Autonomous Systems Internship?

An Autonomous Systems Internship is a temporary position for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience working with technologies such as robotics, self-driving vehicles, drones, and artificial intelligence. Interns typically assist in designing, developing, and testing autonomous systems under the guidance of experienced engineers or researchers. These internships provide exposure to real-world applications of autonomous technology and often require knowledge of programming, machine learning, or control systems. The goal is to help interns build practical skills, expand their professional network, and prepare for a career in the field of autonomous systems.

What is the difference between Autonomous Systems Internship vs Robotics Engineering Internship?

AspectAutonomous Systems InternshipRobotics Engineering Internship
Required CredentialsRelevant coursework, technical skills in AI, machine learning, and systems integrationEngineering background, robotics courses, programming skills in C++, Python
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, autonomous vehicle firmsManufacturing plants, research labs, robotics companies
Employer & Industry UsageAutonomous vehicle developers, AI firms, transportation techRobotics firms, industrial automation, manufacturing

Autonomous Systems Internships focus on developing and testing autonomous technologies like self-driving cars, requiring skills in AI and systems integration. Robotics Engineering Internships emphasize designing and building robotic systems, often involving mechanical and electrical engineering. Both roles are industry-relevant and share overlapping skills but differ in their specific focus areas and work environments.

What types of projects do interns typically work on during an Autonomous Systems Internship?

During an Autonomous Systems Internship, interns often participate in hands-on projects involving robotics, machine learning, sensor integration, or simulation environments. They may assist with developing algorithms for navigation, collaborating on system testing, or supporting data analysis for autonomous vehicles or drones. Interns usually work closely with multidisciplinary teams, gaining exposure to both hardware and software aspects of autonomous systems. This collaborative environment helps interns build practical skills and network with experienced professionals in the field.
More about Autonomous Systems Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Autonomous Systems Internship jobs? Cities with the most Autonomous Systems Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems jobs? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems jobs are:
What states have the most Autonomous Systems Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Autonomous Systems Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 22% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
2026 Graduate - Intelligent Autonomous Systems Development, Test and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

2026 Graduate - Intelligent Autonomous Systems Development, Test and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 58 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you interested in working in multi-disciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, uncrewed air platforms, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, and simulation?
Are you interested in applying your skills to conceive, design, prototype and test new capabilities in intelligent autonomous systems that will save US warfighter's lives and ensure our nation's preeminence?
If you are graduating with a degree in Math, Computer Science, Physics, and/or Engineering or related area with a strong background in Software Development, and you answered "yes" to either of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group at APL!
Who are we?
We are the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group, and our mission focus is to ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, manned-unmanned teaming and novel unmanned aircraft (e.g., drones) design and testing. We believe the future of warfare will be defined by intelligent autonomous systems capable of fighting with machine precision at machine speeds. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives autonomous wingmen behaviors, integrated real-time collaboration tools and data analytic architectures, or novel AI design tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group is at the forefront. Three of our recent game-changing projects (DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg) are featured in recent news articles, highlighting our impact and innovation.
We are seeking inquisitive and creative team members who like to tackle challenging problems to help us build the next generation of autonomous combat systems and shape the future of warfare. Our team is an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary team committed to developing technical talent, instilling a mindset of innovation and collaboration, while having fun with what we do!
As a member of our team, possible roles include...
  • Work on collaborative teams in one or more areas: intelligent control and decision-making, complex battlefield management, human-machine/multi-agent collaboration, networked distributed systems and reinforcement learning, software/hardware design, flight system test and evaluation, and next generation autonomous air platforms.
  • Prototype and simulate AI and autonomous systems by writing code, developing software (simulation and visualization), creating algorithms, or interfacing software/hardware.
  • Contribute to all facets of the data-to-deployment lifecycle of machine learning models.

Collaborate with the nation's leading experts in AI enabled combat systems and work with a team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver impactful capability to the warfighter.
Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a STEM (Math, Computer Science, Physics, and/or Engineering or related area) field.
  • Are skilled in C++, Python, and software design patterns.
  • Have experience with applications for physical systems such as mechanical, aerospace, or robotics.
  • 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 experience developing in a modern software development environment that includes automated testing, continuous integration and deployment, and "DevSecOps" environments.
  • Have proficiency in additional programming languages and environments (C, C#, Java, Linux Javascript, Terminal, Bash, Pytorch, tensorflow, Unity, MATLAB), full stack development, simulation development, cloud computing, and configuration management.
  • Have experience working with sensors, hardware, or flight test support.
  • Have additional classroom or professional experience working with our core skills: autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, deep/reinforcement/machine learning, robotics, dynamics and controls, flight test and evaluation, modeling and simulation, aerodynamics, air combat platform design, data science, and statistical analysis.
  • Have completed any certifications or internships.

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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually