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Autonomous Systems Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

kgs

SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Koniag Management Solutions, LLC a Koniag Government Services company , is seeking a SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer with a TS/SCI security clearance to support KMS and our government customer at ...

Koniag, Inc.

SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Koniag Management Solutions, LLC a Koniag Government Services company , is seeking a SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer with a TS/SCI security clearance to support KMS and our government customer at ...

Koniag, Inc.

SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$200K - $262K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Koniag Management Solutions, LLC a Koniag Government Services company , is seeking a SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer with a TS/SCI security clearance to support KMS and our government customer at ...

kgs

SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Koniag Management Solutions, LLC a Koniag Government Services company , is seeking a SME III Autonomous Systems Engineer with a TS/SCI security clearance to support KMS and our government customer at ...

Cmu

Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$113K - $144K/yr

Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist As AI-enabled autonomous systems get closer to widespread deployment, fundamental research questions remain around their development and use, especially ...

Metron

Chief Engineer, Autonomous Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our team is seeking an accomplished technical leader to serve as the Chief Engineer for Autonomous Maritime Systems. The Chief Engineer provides seniorlevel technical authority for the design ...

METRON

Chief Engineer, Autonomous Systems

Reston, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate has extensive experience taking complex maritime autonomous systems from early concept and prototype development through production transition and operational deployment. This ...

Metron, Inc

Chief Engineer, Autonomous Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate has extensive experience taking complex maritime autonomous systems from early concept and prototype development through production transition and operational deployment. This ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems. You will engage in the full software process-from concept to design and ...

Metron, Inc

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems. You will engage in the full software process-from concept to design and ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems. You will engage in the full software process-from concept to design and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutonomous Systems JobsAutonomous Systems Jobs in Virginia

Autonomous Systems information

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 robotics, sensors, control algorithms, and software integration, often using programming languages like C++ or Python and tools such as simulation environments. Their role involves ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency of autonomous operations through rigorous testing and system optimization.

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

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

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

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

Autonomous Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomous Systems job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Senior Autonomous Systems Engineer

The MITRE Corporation

Mclean, VA • On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

MITRE Corporation rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us.
The Autonomous and Intelligent Systems Department works to enable effective and safe adoption of embodied AI solutions for the most critical challenges. Our technical team of experts, developers, and strategists are helping to realize the benefits autonomy will bring across various sectors including defense, healthcare, transportation, and law enforcement. We bring our unique and unbiased understanding of missions, the innovation landscape, and technology to focus in areas where industry is not incentivized or able to operate to bring insights and solutions to MITRE's sponsors and partners.
Roles & Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical leadership on cross-functional teams evaluating and improving the performance of autonomous systems
  • Maintain knowledge of advances of autonomy and robotics capabilities
  • Leverage technical expertise to evaluate and improve AI/Autonomy system performance
  • Provide thought leadership centered around autonomy/AI technology adoption on robotics hardware and cloud-based computing environments
  • Evaluate autonomy or AI solutions and provide guidance to sponsors based on their requirements
  • Work on topics in robotics-relevant fields, such as computer vision, deep learning, machine learning, planning, human machine teaming, and multi-robot systems
  • Build capabilities in one of more growth area for Autonomous Systems (e.g., maritime autonomy, healthcare robotics, space robotics)
  • Help department and division define and execute strategy around enabling high-consequence applications of Autonomy, including necessary assurance, T&E, and societal implications

Basic Qualifications:
  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in Autonomy and AI with a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; or 3 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with relevant experience who can immediately contribute at this job step; or equivalent combination of autonomy -related education and work experience
  • Broad understanding of autonomous systems across multiple domains (Department of War, Services, Intelligence Community, DHS, industry, and academia)
  • Deep experience in one or more robotics-relevant fields such as computer vision, deep learning, machine learning, control theory, human-machine teaming, or multi-robot systems
  • Ability to clearly articulate autonomy-specific challenges (perception, reasoning, behaviors, collaboration), understand real-world application constraints, discuss critical issues, and identify capability gaps
  • Familiarity with state-of-the-art autonomy research and tools, including ROS 2 and Docker
  • Proven ability to work independently to rapidly learn new technologies, techniques, processes, languages, platforms, and systems
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with sponsors and stakeholders
  • Demonstrated leadership skills, including leading teams, developing, and managing schedules, communicating risks, and managing budgets
  • Experience developing, proposing, and executing autonomy-focused research initiatives
  • Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a DOD Secret clearance within 12 months from the date of hire
  • This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced degree in related field such as Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, etc.
  • Experience with software development in a production setting
  • Knowledge of advances of Autonomy and AI evaluation capabilities in industry and academia
  • Domain knowledge of swarming systems, red teaming, counter UxS, robotic test and evaluation, agentic AI, manufacturing robotics, and/or missile defense
  • Experience with configuring and writing software for open-source flight controllers (ArduPilot, PX4. Mission Planner, QGroundControl, etc)
  • Experience with rapid prototyping, including fabrication and electronics
  • Experience with field testing autonomous systems, particularly unmanned aerial systems
  • Knowledge and/or experience with edge computing, C-SWAP (compute, size, weight, and power) platforms, and/or surrogate or scaled platforms
  • Work and/or leadership of teams to implement and evaluate AI and Autonomy algorithms
  • Active DoD Top Secret clearance

This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
None
This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
Secret
Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$143,600 - $179,500 - $215,400 Annual
Work Location Type:
Hybrid
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law.
MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply.
Benefits information may be found here.
Copyright 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.

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About MITRE

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Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities, and a culture of innovation that embraces diversity, inclusion, flexibility, collaboration, and career growth. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE-and make a difference with us. MITRE is a trusted operator of federally funded research and development centers and we're on a mission to make the world a safer place-for all of humanity, today and in the future. To deliver on our mission, we need the world's best talent and leaders-groundbreakers and partnership-builders on a global scale in areas like healthcare, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure resiliency, pandemic management, and cybersecurity. In return, we have the privilege of backing you with thousands of technical experts in diverse fields, a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing, access to data and resources uniquely available to MITRE through our wide-ranging partnerships across government, industry and academia.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1958

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