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Autonomy Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Autonomy Chief Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

Autonomy Chief Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air travel. Our technology enables aircraft to take ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Autonomy Chief Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

Autonomy Chief Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air travel. Our technology enables aircraft to take ...

Riverside Research Institute

Autonomy Program Manager

VA · On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

A DIU Autonomy PM may work on autonomous system programs across domains, functions, and mission areas. This position can be located in Arlington, VA or Mountain View, CA. Responsibilities Champion ...

STR

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

As an Autonomy Software Engineer, you will work within the SAAM group to develop robust solutions for mission systems integration and autonomy development in demanding customer environments.

Forterra

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/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 ...

STR

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Autonomy Software Engineer will work within the SAAM group on autonomy development and mission systems integration, ensuring teams execute high-level solutions for demanding customer environments.

STR

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

The Systems Autonomy, Analysis, and Modeling (SAAM) Group within the Sensors Division uses modeling and simulation (M&S) to analyze system capabilities, develop enabling algorithms, and take these ...

STR

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$174K - $225K/yr

The Systems Autonomy, Analysis, and Modeling (SAAM) Group within the Sensors Division uses modeling and simulation (M&S) to analyze system capabilities, develop enabling algorithms, and take these ...

Ashoka

Youth Safeguarding & Autonomy Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$17.25 - $23/hr

Lead updates to Ashoka's Youth Autonomy Toolkit, working alongside staff and young people to ensure it reflects lived experience and is easy to use * Conduct research on the insurance landscape ...

Ashoka

Youth Safeguarding & Autonomy Intern

Arlington, VA · Remote

$17.25 - $23/hr

Lead updates to Ashoka's Youth Autonomy Toolkit, working alongside staff and young people to ensure it reflects lived experience and is easy to use * Conduct research on the insurance landscape ...

Ashoka

Youth Safeguarding & Autonomy Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Lead updates to Ashoka's Youth Autonomy Toolkit, working alongside staff and young people to ensure it reflects lived experience and is easy to use * Conduct research on the insurance landscape ...

STR

Autonomy Algorithms Lead Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$173K - $216K/yr

The Collaborative Autonomy and Control (CAC) Group in the AC2 Division works to build software systems that solve critical problems in the areas of uncrewed system autonomy, multi-agent collaboration ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Autonomy information

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Autonomy jobs in Virginia? For Autonomy jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autonomy jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Autonomy jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Autonomy jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Autonomy job openings:
Autonomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autonomy job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.

Autonomy Chief Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Autonomy Chief Engineer
About Electra
At Electra, we're building hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air travel. Our technology enables aircraft to take off and land in soccer field-sized spaces, unlocking thousands of new operating locations and enabling what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, efficient, point-to-point travel closer to where people live and work.
A global company headquartered in Manassas, VA, with additional operations in Switzerland, Electra is backed by industry leaders and is advancing toward certification. We're a growing team of innovators working at the forefront of sustainable aviation-every hire plays a critical role in shaping the future of flight.
The Role
Electra seeks a highly experienced Autonomy Chief Engineer to lead the design and integration of flight autonomy systems on future variants of Electra's flagship nine-passenger EL9 aircraft and other new products. This role will serve as a primary architect and system integrator, with emphasis on understanding the customer use cases to build conviction on the internal requirements before executing the program by maturing the design and partnerships through successful gate reviews.
What You'll Do
Customer and Partner Engagement
  • Partner with internal government and commercial programs leaders to deeply understand the real needs of the customers, not just their explicitly stated goals
  • Synthesize these inputs to develop system requirements and concept of operation that define what Electra will develop to.
  • Assess state of suppliers for various elements of the autonomy architecture including system components, support infrastructure, and data. Lead supplier/partner engagement and selection efforts.
  • Support internal and external communication of Electra's autonomy strategy

Technical Integration and Design Maturity
  • Define autonomy concept of operations, functional decomposition, and system architecture
  • Develop integration strategies aligned with existing EL9 aircraft design
  • Evaluate architectures and interfaces for completeness, performance, and integration risk
  • Partner with the EL9 PMO to conduct trade studies for autonomous capability enhancements

Requirements Development and Traceability
  • Lead the development of requirements for EL9 autonomy system, including both aircraft requirements and non-aircraft associated elements.
  • Develop operational plan for the system including training systems, operational specifications, minimum equipment lists, etc.
  • Collaborate with product development teams to ensure sound requirements flowdown and traceability.
  • Assess verification approaches to confirm practicality and alignment with program objectives.

Gate Review and Development Plan
  • Assemble development and test plan for autonomy systems
  • Lead gate reviews as design matures
  • In collaboration with the Certification Team, support the development of a initial certification strategy with the relevant airworthiness authorities, especially defense authorities.
  • Provide recommendations to program leadership.

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience ( advanced degree preferred)
  • US Persons required
  • Extensive experience (typically 12+ years) in flight autonomy or highly automated systems development
  • Proven ownership of complex autonomous system design and integration
  • Experience supporting or participating in government certification programs, including FAA and/or defense airworthiness processes
  • Strong background in formal development processes (e.g., ARP4754B)
  • Demonstrated technical leadership of engineering teams and supplier engagements, through direct management and/or senior technical direction
  • Experience conducting trade studies and preparing for design reviews
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to deliver clear, actionable technical feedback

Preferred Qualifications
  • Pilot certificate preferred but not required.
  • Familiarity with development and test planning for ground and flight activities.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting or leading certification activities, including FAA or defense airworthiness.
  • Demonstrated mentorship of senior engineers and IPT leads.

Compensation:
$175,000.00 - $215,000.00 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefit
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Location, Work Model, and Travel
Location: Manassas, Virginia. On-site presence is strongly preferred to support close collaboration on a complex hardware program. Travel: Up to 25% for supplier engagement, integration activities, and reviews.
Compensation and Benefits
In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.
Working Conditions
Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.
Background & Drug Screening
Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.
Commitment
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.
Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.
Electra is an E-Verify employer.

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