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Autonomous Systems Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Autonomy Program Manager

VA · On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

Position Overview Riverside Research is seeking a Program Manager with a strong background in one or more of the areas of military operational experience, program management, autonomous systems ...

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the role Forterra is seeking a software engineer with a passion for autonomous systems. In this role, you will design, develop, and field software solutions that enable intelligent behavior in ...

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $165/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the role Forterra is seeking a software engineer with a passion for autonomous systems. In this role, you will design, develop, and field software solutions that enable intelligent behavior in ...

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the role Forterra is seeking a senior software engineer with a passion for autonomous systems. In this role, you will design, develop, and field software solutions that enable intelligent ...

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the role Forterra is seeking a senior software engineer with a passion for autonomous systems. In this role, you will design, develop, and field software solutions that enable intelligent ...

Systems Engineering Lead

Newport News, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Develops mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and electro-mechanical systems for use on large mining haul trucks and/or large autonomous mining haul trucks. * Performs system calculations and/or ...

Lead the software integration of advanced autonomy capabilities for mission orchestration, multi ... Coordinate System Eng & Architecture activities with M&S and test activities on a continuous basis ...

Showing results 41-60

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.
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.

Chief Engineer, Intelligence Systems

Anduril Industries

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,712 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company focused on transforming military capabilities with advanced technology. The Chief Engineer provides technical leadership on major defense projects, establishes engineering standards, and is accountable for technical delivery and safety.
Responsibilities:
• Lead inter-disciplinary team (e.g., Software, Hardware, Robotics, T&E) to develop and deliver integrated systems for multi-purpose missions.
• Set technical vision and define system architecture to guide overarching development efforts
• Establish and maintain best practices for system development, including software standards, code reviews, configuration management, build processes, testing, etc.
• Triage issues, conduct root cause analysis of failures, and coordinate next steps with engineering teams
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure technical team is professionally developing at tenure-appropriate levels
• Support local engagements with the local customer as the technical SME
• Travel up to 25% of time to build, test, and deploy capabilities at Anduril test ranges and customer-directed sites
Qualifications:
Required:
• Currently possesses and is able to maintain an active U.S. Top Secret Clearance
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in autonomous systems, robotics, and defense applications within the intelligence or defense communities
• Experience in a technical management/engineering role, leading teams to integrate software and hardware solutions.
• Experience developing and executing complex technical programs to include Payload, sensor integration, Navigation / Autonomy, Networking / Communications, Optical sensing, radar, RF, EW, UAS Systems
• Systems Architecture - Payload integration level (Delivered the systems specifically)
• Rapid integration timeline and field testing/field deployment
Preferred:
• Experience with SITL and HITL simulation environments and the execution of comprehensive testing programs
• Experience deploying technical solutions in the field both foreign and domestic
Company:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company that specializes in developing advanced autonomous systems to enhance national security. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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