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Autonomy Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Autonomy Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$140K - $190K/yr

Autonomy Engineer Requisition ID: TA195 Location(s): Hybrid; Greater Denver Metro Area, CO: Northern, VA Application Deadline: June 30, 2026 Who We Are Trusted Space builds solutions both on the ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Autonomy Engineer Key Role: C ond uct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter mission ...

Autonomy Lead

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Autonomy Lead The Opportunity: Designs, implements, and maintains strategic, multi-disciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy programs in support of client strategy. Applies leading-edge ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Autonomy Engineer Key Role: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter mission ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Autonomy Engineer The Opportunity: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter ...

Autonomy Lead

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Norfolk, Virginia, USA Autonomy Lead The Opportunity: Designs, implements, and maintains strategic, multi-disciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy programs in support of client strategy.

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Autonomy Engineer Key Role: C ond uct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter mission ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Share Autonomy Engineer Key Role: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter ...

Autonomy Lead The Opportunity: Designs, implements, and maintains strategic, multi-disciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy programs in support of client strategy. Applies leading-edge ...

Autonomy Engineer Key Role: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter mission ...

Autonomy Engineer The Opportunity: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Share Autonomy Engineer The Opportunity: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD ...

Autonomy Lead The Opportunity: Designs, implements, and maintains strategic, multi-disciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy programs in support of client strategy. Applies leading-edge ...

Autonomy System Architect

Newport News, VA · On-site

$220K/yr

The Autonomy System Architect manages and conducts development work associated with research, development, deployment and maintenance of the hardware system architecture of Liebherr autonomous mining ...

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

About Forterra At Forterra, we are unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. Our mission is to build the foundational platforms that enable an intelligent ecosystem to coordinate ...

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Autonomy information

See Virginia salary details

$47.2K

$161.5K

$282.5K

How much do autonomy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomy in Virginia is $161,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,244.00 and $208,608.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals working in the field of autonomy, such as autonomous systems engineering?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autonomous Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 are autonomy engineers?

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Autonomy jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Autonomy job openings:
Autonomy Engineer

Autonomy Engineer

Trusted Space, LLC

Chantilly, VA • Hybrid

$140K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Autonomy Engineer
Requisition ID: TA195
Location(s): Hybrid; Greater Denver Metro Area, CO: Northern, VA
Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
Who We Are
Trusted Space builds solutions both on the ground and in space. Our solutions provide advanced capabilities supporting missions vital to our Nation’s defense, intelligence, and science sectors. Our diverse talented staff of scientists, engineers, and business professionals support critical missions including Space Domain Awareness, Battlespace Awareness & Decision Support, Space Exploration & Science, and the establishment of core Space Infrastructure.
Our Culture
As a customer-focused service provider, Trusted Space values its employees and clients. We live by our values; central to this principle is the concept to treat others as you would like others to treat you. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, world class benefits, and work-life balance. We encourage life-long learning and continuous improvement in all that we do. Each day, we seek to be better than the previous day, embracing our journey to Excellence. We consider it a privilege to work with our customers on their greatest challenges.
Job Description
Trusted Space is seeking an Autonomy Engineer with a bachelor’s degree or higher and 5+ years’ experience to join our team.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer/Data Science or related field.
  • Experience implementing, applying, and analyzing behavior of reinforcement learning algorithms
  • Experience that reflects strong understanding of machine learning fundamentals
  • Experience with reinforcement learning libraries such as RLLib or Gym
  • Ability to work with Git version control
  • An Active Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
 
Desired Skills
  • Experience working with large code bases with multiple interacting components
  • Experience with development in Python
  • Experience with space-based hardware and software, or adjacent aerospace experience
  • Masters degree or working towards a Masters Degree in Computer Science or Data Science
  • Demonstrated ability of technical writing for previous research or projects
  • Experience with implementation or analysis of autonomous systems in any domain. These domains can be robotics, drones, etc.

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is $140,000-$190,000. Please note that this range is a general guideline and can vary. Trusted Space, LLC considers several factors when extending an offer including, but not limited to: scope, location, position responsibilities, education/training, key skills and business considerations.
 

Benefits: Trusted Space seeks to create an environment where Employees are empowered and supported to achieve their full potential. We encourage life-long learning within our Agile & Innovative work environment. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, and vision plans; life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance; 401(k) plan; paid holidays and generous paid time off; short-term and long-term disability insurance; and other benefits to promote health, wellness, and a positive work-life balance.
Trusted Space, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. All aspects of employment are decided based on qualifications, merit, competence, performance, and business need.
DISCLAIMER: Trusted Space, LLC only uses the respective domains of trustedspace.com and trustedspace.us for official contact and any other domains are likely a scam and do not originate from our company. Trusted Space will never ask a candidate for access or pass codes to personal accounts including e-mails, bank accounts, CashApp, Paypal, Venmo, etc.