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Autonomy Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

You will be responsible for collaborating with Autonomy teams (Systems, Integration and Controls) in Palo Alto, CA, planning and executing ADAS feature testing, analyzing and communicating the ...

You will be responsible for collaborating with Autonomy teams (Systems, Integration and Controls) in Palo Alto, CA, planning and executing ADAS feature testing, analyzing and communicating the ...

You will be responsible for collaborating with Autonomy teams (Systems, Integration and Controls) in Palo Alto, CA, planning and executing ADAS feature testing, analyzing and communicating the ...

Autonomous Test Driver

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Purpose To wow the client by safely operating autonomous vehicles (including the software in the autonomous vehicles and trucks) and providing the client with highly reliable, accurate test data.

By choosing the middle mile - with defined point-to-point delivery, we have simplified some of the more complex AV challenges, enabling us to achieve full autonomy ahead of competitors. Given ...

By choosing the middle mile - with defined point-to-point delivery, we have simplified some of the more complex AV challenges, enabling us to achieve full autonomy ahead of competitors. Given ...

By choosing the middle mile - with defined point-to-point delivery, we have simplified some of the more complex AV challenges, enabling us to achieve full autonomy ahead of competitors. Given ...

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

The Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail ...

You are the final line of defense in ensuring our autonomous fleet is pristine, powered up, and ready for our riders. What you'll do * Interior and exterior cleaning. Wash, vacuum, and detail ...

You are the final line of defense in ensuring our autonomous fleet is pristine, powered up, and ready for our riders. What you'll do * Interior and exterior cleaning. Wash, vacuum, and detail ...

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Autonomy information

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 Phoenix, AZ?

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

Infographic showing various Autonomy job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Autonomy & Controls Lead

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Build the Future With Us
At AIRO, we bring together aircraft, autonomy, avionics, and mission services into one integrated platform designed for the environments where failure is not an option. Our technology supports contested logistics, tactical and long-range ISTAR, and operations that demand precision under pressure, so the people who depend on it can get where they need to be when it matters most. Here, you will work alongside innovators, engineers, operators, and industry leaders who share a passion for solving hard problems and building what comes next in aerospace and defense.
Join us and be part of something extraordinary.
Position Overview:
Airo is seeking a visionary, hands-on Autonomy and Controls Engineering Lead to direct the development of next-generation intelligent flight software, guidance architectures, and precision stabilization algorithms for our advanced UAS platforms. In this critical technical leadership role, you will bridge modern control theory and embedded hardware execution to deliver safe, reliable, and high-performance autonomous flight in demanding operational environments. You will take end-to-end ownership of core flight software, including state estimation, trajectory planning, and low-level stabilization loops while guiding a fast-moving team of robotics and firmware engineers from simulation through real-world flight testing. Working at the intersection of aerospace dynamics and robotics, your primary focus will be delivering robust flight controller stability, comprehensive fail-safes, and production-grade GPS-denied navigation firmware.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Architect & Tune Flight Control Systems: Design, implement, and tune classical and non-linear control algorithms, trajectory optimization routines, and dynamic 6-DOF stabilization loops for novel UAS platforms.
  • Deliver GPS-Denied Navigation: Build and optimize multi-sensor fusion pipelines incorporating Extended Kalman Filters (EKF), factor graphs, and Visual-Inertial Odometry (VIO) to achieve resilient navigation in contested or GPS-denied environments.
  • Integrate & Customize Flight Stacks: Direct the architectural customization, integration, and deployment of open and proprietary flight stacks, including PX4, ArduPilot, ROS, and ROS 2.
  • Lead SIL / HIL Simulation Campaigns: Own Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) simulation infrastructure to validate flight critical software and fail-safes prior to live flight operations.
  • Define Hardware-Software Interfaces: Collaborate across disciplines to specify compute, avionics, sensor, and actuator requirements, ensuring seamless embedded integration across the airframe.
  • Technical Leadership & Team Scaling: Mentor, lead, and scale a high-performing controls and autonomy engineering team while enforcing robust software architecture and code review standards.

Qualifications:
  • BS, MS in Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline paired with 5+ years of hands-on experience building and shipping real-time control or autonomy software for physical robotic or aerospace systems.
  • Expert proficiency in C/C++ and Python, with demonstrated expertise developing within embedded real-time flight environments.
  • Deep theoretical mastery of control theory, including linear/non-linear control design, state estimation, dynamic programming, and 6-DOF aircraft/rotorcraft dynamics modeling.
  • Proven track record with open-source autopilots, specifically building, modifying, and tuning PX4 or ArduPilot flight controllers.
  • Hands-on expertise in sensor fusion pipelines, developing and deploying robust EKF-based state estimation algorithms.
  • Extensive experience with simulation frameworks, including SIL and HIL validation workflows for safety-critical autonomous systems.
  • Experience integrating autonomous systems into operational, test, or simulation environments

Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience fielding GPS-denied navigation solutions on operational UAV platforms using VIO, lidar odometry, or optical flow.
  • Demonstrated background developing safety-critical fail-safes, contingency management, and fault-tolerant control architectures for autonomous drones.
  • Experience deploying modern robotic frameworks (ROS/ROS 2, DDS) on embedded Linux computing targets.

SECURITY & COMPLIANCE
• Comply with all company information, security policies and procedures
• Ensure proper handling and protection of proprietary information
• Share information only on a need-to-know basis
• Adhere to company non-disclosure requirements
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
  • Ability to use hands and fingers for manual dexterity and repetitive tasks
  • Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift as required by the position
  • Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull objects within the requirements of the position
  • Ability to perform the visual, auditory, and communication requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position
  • Ability to work safely in the physical and environmental conditions applicable to the position

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee may also be asked to perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor as required. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed. The AIRO Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.