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Autonomous Systems Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Advanced Robotics Group, LLC

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Autonomous Robotics Software Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are a deep-tech robotics company building industrial, fully autonomous systems designed to operate in harsh, real-world environments. Alongside our robotics platforms, we are developing a ...

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Autonomous Systems information

See Maryland salary details

$44.6K

$99.1K

$148.5K

How much do autonomous systems jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomous systems in Maryland is $99,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $121,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autonomous system?

An Autonomous Systems job involves designing, developing, and maintaining self-operating technologies, such as drones, self-driving cars, and robotic systems. Professionals in this field work on AI, machine learning, sensor fusion, and control systems to enable machines to make decisions and operate without human intervention. Roles may include software engineers, roboticists, and data scientists, often collaborating to improve system reliability and efficiency. These jobs are common in industries like defense, transportation, manufacturing, and healthcare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an autonomous systems position?

To excel in an Autonomous Systems role, candidates typically need expertise in robotics, computer vision, control systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++, often supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like ROS (Robot Operating System), simulation platforms, and relevant certifications (e.g., in AI or machine learning) is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective teamwork enhance performance in this multidisciplinary environment. These abilities are essential for innovating, troubleshooting, and successfully deploying autonomous solutions in real-world settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in autonomous systems?

Professionals in Autonomous Systems often encounter challenges related to integrating complex hardware and software, ensuring system reliability in dynamic environments, and maintaining safety and compliance with industry standards. Debugging and testing autonomous solutions can be demanding due to unpredictable real-world variables and evolving technical requirements. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is crucial, as roles often involve coordinating with engineers, data scientists, and product managers. Successfully navigating these challenges helps drive innovation and ensures the successful deployment and operation of advanced autonomous technologies.

What career pathways exist in autonomous systems?

Career pathways in autonomous systems include roles such as autonomous systems engineer, robotics engineer, software developer, sensor integration specialist, and systems analyst. These positions often require skills in programming, control systems, machine learning, and experience with tools like ROS or MATLAB. Opportunities exist in industries like automotive, aerospace, defense, and research institutions.

What do autonomous systems engineers do?

Autonomous systems engineers design, develop, and test systems that enable machines or vehicles to operate independently, such as self-driving cars or drones. They work with sensors, algorithms, and control systems, often using programming languages like C++ or Python, and may require knowledge of robotics, machine learning, and embedded systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland?

The most popular types of Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland are:

What are popular job titles related to Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland?

For Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomous Systems jobs in Maryland are:

Autonomous Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,060 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Senior Robotics Engineer for Tailored Autonomous Systems Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 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 passionate about robotics, autonomous systems, and advanced mission capabilities?
Do you enjoy leading multidisciplinary teams through the development, integration, and transition of complex autonomous systems?
Are you interested in shaping the future of robotics and autonomy for critical national security missions?
The Tailored Autonomous Systems Group (QPJ) is seeking a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership for the design, development, integration, testing, and deployment of advanced robotic and autonomous systems. Our team develops low-size, weight, and power (SWaP) robotic platforms and autonomy solutions that operate in challenging and dynamic environments.
As a senior member of the team, you will serve as a technical leader across multiple projects, working closely with sponsors, engineers, and researchers to define system architectures, guide technical execution, and transition advanced capabilities into operational use. You will help shape the strategic direction of QPJ's robotics and autonomy portfolio while contributing directly to the nation's most challenging mission problems.
As a Senior Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer, you will...
  • Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams through system architecture, requirements development, integration, test, and transition activities for advanced autonomous systems.
  • Serve as a technical lead, chief engineer, or senior systems engineer on autonomy-focused development efforts.
  • Lead system architecture development, interface definition, requirements allocation, and technical baseline management across hardware, software, sensing, communications, and autonomy subsystems.
  • Conduct and lead technical trade studies, design reviews, risk assessments, and performance analyses to support critical program decisions.
  • Lead verification, validation, and test activities, including simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), laboratory integration, and field experimentation.
  • Guide development of autonomy capabilities including perception, planning, navigation, controls, decision-making, and multi-agent coordination.
  • Interface directly with government sponsors, performers, and stakeholders to define technical objectives, communicate progress, and shape future program direction.
  • Mentor junior engineers and researchers in systems engineering, robotics, and autonomy development.
  • Support proposal development, strategic planning, and business development activities that expand group's technical portfolio.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have at least 8 years of relevant professional experience developing, integrating, testing, or fielding complex engineering systems.
  • Have experience leading technical teams through system design, development, prototyping, integration, and test activities.
  • Have experience developing and integrating robotic systems, autonomous systems, embedded systems, or other mission-critical technologies.
  • Have experience conducting system-level trade studies, technical risk management, and performance analyses.
  • Have strong technical communication skills and experience presenting technical information to sponsors and senior leadership.
  • Have experience programming in Python, C++, or similar languages.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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 a Master's degree or Ph.D. in Robotics, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Have experience serving as a Technical Lead, Chief Engineer, Principal Investigator, or Project Manager on advanced technology programs.
  • Have demonstrated experience leading systems engineering activities including requirements development, architecture definition, integration, verification, validation, and transition.
  • Have experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies, including SysML and Digital Engineering practices.
  • Have experience developing autonomous systems, robotic platforms, uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), uncrewed ground vehicles (UGV), maritime systems, or distributed autonomous systems.
  • Have expertise in perception, SLAM, planning, controls, AI/ML, human-machine teaming, or multi-agent autonomy.

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
$290,000 Annually

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