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Autonomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autonomy SME, Lead

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Autonomy SME, Lead The Opportunity: As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Potomac, MD · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Autonomy SME, Lead The Opportunity: As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work ...

Company Description At AeroVect, we provide autonomous driving solutions to some of the busiest airports and logistics hubs in the world. Backed by top-tier investors, AeroVect is shaping the future ...

Director of Autonomy

South San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$350K - $500K/yr

We are hiring a Director of Autonomy to lead our autonomy organization end-to-end. You will manage the entire autonomy team (Perception, Prediction, Planning, Controls, and Localization), own the ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Lorton, VA · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Autonomy SME, Lead The Opportunity: As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Ashton, MD · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

Autonomy SME, Lead The Opportunity: As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Washington, DC · On-site

$62.25 - $85.50/hr

Booz Allen Hamilton is seeking an Autonomy SME, Lead to design, develop, and deploy machine learning models for unmanned systems. The role involves guiding autonomy architecture decisions, mentoring ...

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 ...

May Mobility is transforming cities through autonomous technology to create a safer, greener, more accessible world. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, May develops and deploys autonomous vehicles (AVs ...

Autonomy SME, Lead

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$116K - $152K/yr

As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work with advanced autonomy frameworks ...

Senior Autonomy Engineer

Warrendale, PA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

We develop high-reliability autonomy software for unmanned ground systems that operate in complex, real-world environments. Our work spans perception, planning, controls, sensor fusion, human-robot ...

Senior Autonomy Engineer

Warrendale, PA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

We develop high-reliability autonomy software for unmanned ground systems that operate in complex, real-world environments. Our work spans perception, planning, controls, sensor fusion, human-robot ...

Autonomy Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site +1

$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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Autonomy information

See salary details

$48.5K

$166.1K

$290.5K

How much do autonomy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for autonomy in the United States is $166,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $214,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Autonomy jobs
What cities are hiring for Autonomy jobs? Cities with the most Autonomy job openings:
What states have the most Autonomy jobs? States with the most job openings for Autonomy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Autonomy job openings in the United States 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, with an average salary of $166,107 per year, or $79.9 per hour.

$112K - $257K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

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Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

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Job description

Autonomy SME, Lead
The Opportunity:
As an Autonomy and UAS Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that power intelligent behaviors on unmanned systems. You will work with advanced autonomy frameworks, including platforms such as Shield AI's Hivemind to build resilient navigation, perception, targeting, and collaborative autonomy capabilities.
You will operate at the cutting edge of edge AI, computer vision, reinforcement learning, and real-time embedded systems, helping the military transition from human-in-the-loop control to AI-assisted and autonomous mission execution.
As a technical lead, you will guide autonomy architecture decisions, mentor engineering teams, and support the integration of autonomy capabilities into operational military systems.
What You'll Work On:
  • Design and train machine learning models for perception, object detection, tracking, and classification.
  • Develop reinforcement learning and autonomy algorithms for navigation and mission execution.
  • Implement sensor fusion models combining EO, IR, LiDAR, GPS-denied navigation, and telemetry data.
  • Optimize AI models for deployment on edge compute platforms such as GPU, TPU, and embedded systems.
  • Develop and integrate autonomy behaviors within platforms such as Hivemind.
  • Implement mission planning logic and adaptive decision-making algorithms.
  • Enable collaborative autonomy between multiple UAS platforms.
  • Lead the design and implementation of autonomy architectures for UAS and multi-agent systems.
  • Build simulation-based training pipelines for autonomy validation.
  • Deploy containerized AI models to airborne and ground edge nodes.
  • Optimize inference latency and resource utilization.
  • Conduct hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing.
  • Develop secure software pipelines aligned to DoD cybersecurity standards.
  • Integrate AI outputs into tactical networks and mission command systems.
  • Implement CI/CD pipelines for rapid model iteration and field updates.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers developing autonomy capabilities.
  • Support flight testing, operational demonstrations, military exercises, and customer evaluations.
  • Collaborate with government stakeholders, operators, and engineering teams to define autonomy requirements and roadmaps.

Join us. The world can't wait.
You Have:
  • 5+ years of experience in software engineering, including AI/ML systems
  • Experience with Python and C++
  • Experience with deep learning frameworks, such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and ONNX
  • Experience building and deploying AI models on edge hardware, such as NVIDIA Jetson, GPUs, and embedded platforms
  • Experience with robotics middleware, such as ROS or ROS2
  • Experience with computer vision or autonomous navigation systems
  • Experience leading technical teams, architecture decisions, or autonomy-focused development efforts
  • Experience integrating autonomous systems into operational, test, or simulation environments
  • Ability to obtain a Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in a Computer Science, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or Electrical Engineering field

Nice If You Have:
  • Experience working in military exercises and war games
  • Experience with autonomy frameworks such as Hivemind, PX4, ArduPilot, NVIDIA Isaac, or ROS2
  • Experience with collaborative autonomy, swarming, or multi-agent mission execution
  • Ability to support flight testing and operational evaluations
  • Top Secret clearance
  • Master's degree
  • ML, AI, or Solution Architecture Certification

Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $112,800.00 to $257,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Identity Statement
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.
  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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About Booz Allen Hamilton

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Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914