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Autonomy Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

ICONSTAFF

Autonomy Engineer

Cambridge, MA

About Us We are redefining the future of autonomous intelligence, building AI and autonomy solutions for unmanned systems in GPS-denied and contested environments. Our mission is to push the ...

MORSE Corp

Autonomy Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA

MORSE is looking for an Autonomy Software Engineer to research, develop and prototype novel autonomy software to enable pre-mission planning and operation of novel aircraft and other autonomous ...

MORSE Corp

Autonomy Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

MORSE is looking for an Autonomy Software Engineer to research, develop and prototype novel autonomy software to enable pre-mission planning and operation of novel aircraft and other autonomous ...

Merlin Labs

$130K - $175K/yr

The Merlin Pilot autonomy system powers a growing range of aircraft and mission profiles and has been proven through hundreds of autonomous flights from Merlin's global flight test facilities ...

SSCI, Inc.

Autonomy Software Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$108 - $131/hr

Our Autonomy Software Engineer will be part of the company's core AI-enabled Autonomy Software development team. Primary responsibilities include day-to-day, agile software engineering for initial ...

Tensec

Autonomy Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

You are a versatile software engineer with a passion for aviation, robotics, and autonomous systems. You are comfortable working across technical domains, from perception and understanding to ...

Tycho.AI

Autonomy Engineer - Perception

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

AI is redefining the future of autonomous intelligence. Spun out of MIT and backed by DoD contracts, we are building breakthrough AI and autonomy solutions for unmanned systems operating in GPS ...

SSCI, Inc.

Lead Autonomy Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

The Lead Autonomy Engineer is a key technical contributor and small engineering team lead on multiple programs aligned with division and/or group objectives. Mission autonomy is the ability for ...

Merlin Labs

Technical Program Manager, Autonomy

Boston, MA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

The Merlin Pilot autonomy system powers a growing range of aircraft and mission profiles and has been proven through hundreds of autonomous flights from Merlin's global flight test facilities ...

Draper

Software Autonomy Engineer

Cambridge, MA

$75K - $156K/yr

The Autonomy Engineer will work on cutting-edge defense systems that is fielded by the US Government and commercial customers in aerial, ground, underwater, and space domains. The preferred candidate ...

Draper

Software Autonomy Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

The Autonomy Engineer will work on cutting-edge defense systems that is fielded by the US Government and commercial customers in aerial, ground, underwater, and space domains. The preferred candidate ...

Jobtailor

Lead Autonomy Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Serve as a subject matter expert in emerging mission autonomy technologies. * Support or lead marketing and proposal efforts in mission autonomy. * Support or lead managing and tasking team to ...

Inuplands

Software Autonomy Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75 - $156/hr

The Autonomy Engineer will work on cutting‑edge defense systems that is fielded by the US Government and commercial customers in aerial, ground, underwater, and space domains. The preferred ...

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All JobsAutonomy JobsAutonomy Jobs in Massachusetts

Autonomy information

See Massachusetts salary details

$52K

$178.2K

$311.6K

How much do autonomy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomy in Massachusetts is $178,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,124.00 and $230,110.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autonomy engineer?

Autonomy engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain autonomous systems, such as self-driving vehicles, drones, or robotics. Their work focuses on enabling machines to perform tasks without constant human intervention by integrating sensors, control algorithms, and artificial intelligence. Autonomy engineers often collaborate with software developers, hardware engineers, and data scientists to ensure the safe and efficient operation of autonomous technologies. Their expertise is crucial in industries like automotive, aerospace, and robotics, where automation and intelligent systems are rapidly advancing.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an autonomous systems engineer?

To thrive as an Autonomous Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in robotics, computer science, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python or C++), simulation tools (like ROS or Gazebo), and experience with AI or machine learning frameworks are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for designing, developing, and improving autonomous technologies that function reliably in complex, real-world environments.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in autonomy?

Professionals in the autonomy field often encounter challenges related to integrating complex hardware and software systems, ensuring safety and reliability, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams—such as robotics, AI, and systems engineering—is essential to address these challenges effectively. Additionally, testing autonomous solutions in real-world environments to handle unpredictable scenarios is a critical part of the role, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What is the difference between Autonomy vs Project Manager?

AspectAutonomyProject Manager
Required credentialsTypically none; skills in decision-making and independenceProject management certifications (PMP, CAPM), relevant experience
Work environmentIndependent, self-directed roles, often in consulting or freelance workTeam-based, coordinating projects within organizations
Employer and industry usageUsed across various industries for roles emphasizing independenceCommon in construction, IT, marketing, and corporate sectors

Autonomy refers to the degree of independence in decision-making and work execution, often in roles that require self-direction. Project Managers focus on planning, executing, and closing projects within organizations, often working within structured teams. While Autonomy emphasizes independence, Project Managers operate within defined project scopes and organizational frameworks.

What is autonomy in a career?

Autonomy in a career refers to the degree of independence and control a worker has over their tasks, schedule, and decision-making. Jobs with high autonomy often involve self-management, flexibility, and the ability to prioritize work, which can improve job satisfaction and productivity.

What jobs give you autonomy?

Jobs that offer high autonomy include roles such as freelance writers, software developers, and consultants, where individuals can set their own schedules and work independently. These positions often require self-motivation, strong time management skills, and sometimes specific technical tools or certifications. Autonomy levels can vary depending on the industry and employer policies.

What are popular job titles related to Autonomy jobs in Massachusetts?

For Autonomy jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autonomy jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Autonomy jobs in Massachusetts are:

Autonomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomy job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $178,196 per year, or $85.7 per hour.

Autonomy Engineer

Cambridge, MA

ICONSTAFF
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about ICONSTAFFexternal

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

About Us

We are redefining the future of autonomous intelligence, building AI and autonomy solutions for unmanned systems in GPS-denied and contested environments. Our mission is to push the boundaries of what autonomous systems can achieve across defense and commercial applications like logistics and disaster response.


About the Role

As an Autonomy Engineer – Motion Planning & Controls, you will design, build, and validate motion planning and control systems for autonomous vehicles. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams on rapid prototyping and hardware/software co-development, driving concepts from idea to prototype.


Responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and maintain motion planning, trajectory optimization, and control software.
  • Integrate systems into real-world platforms.
  • Apply state-of-the-art research to practical implementations.


Requirements

  • Master’s or PhD in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Proficiency in C/C++ and production-grade software development.
  • Strong foundation in modern control systems (including MPC) and motion planning.
  • Experience with rotorcraft or fixed-wing flight dynamics and real robotics platforms.
  • Comfortable with multi-threaded real-time systems.


Nice to Have

  • Experience with learned motion planning, multi-agent systems, embedded platforms, microcontrollers, flight control systems, and optimization techniques.


Why Join

  • Work at the cutting edge of autonomy and AI.
  • Collaborative, high-trust culture with focus on innovation and learning.
  • Competitive salary, equity, and benefits.