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How much do autonomous systems internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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.
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Autonomous Systems Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems Internship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
2026 PhD Graduate - Autonomous Systems Seeker and Sensor Engineer

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

Posted 29 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 59 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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