2

Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics. The ideal candidate will be passionate about cutting-edge technologies for prototype systems.

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do entry level autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level autonomous systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer, you need a solid foundation in robotics, control systems, programming (such as Python or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like ROS (Robot Operating System), MATLAB, and version control systems (e.g., Git) is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate and innovate within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for building reliable autonomous systems and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies.

What types of projects and technologies do Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineers typically work on, and how is their work structured within a team?

As an Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer, you'll often contribute to projects involving robotics, self-driving vehicles, or drone technologies. Your daily work may include developing and testing algorithms for perception, localization, and control, often using tools like Python, ROS, and machine learning frameworks. You will typically collaborate closely with senior engineers, software developers, and hardware teams through agile sprints, code reviews, and regular team meetings. The environment is highly collaborative and problem-solving oriented, offering abundant opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and participate in multidisciplinary projects that can lead to rapid professional growth.

What is an Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer?

An Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and implements technologies that enable machines or systems to operate independently with minimal human intervention. These engineers often work on robotics, self-driving vehicles, drones, or industrial automation. As entry-level professionals, they typically assist senior engineers in building algorithms, integrating sensors, and troubleshooting hardware or software issues. They use skills in programming, systems engineering, and data analysis to help create and improve autonomous systems. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited experience looking to start a career in robotics and automation.

What is the difference between Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer vs Autonomous Vehicle Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Autonomous Systems EngineerAutonomous Vehicle Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Computer Science, or Electrical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, automotive industryAutomotive companies, tech firms, startups focused on autonomous vehicles
Employer & Industry UsageDeveloping autonomous systems for various applicationsDesigning software specifically for autonomous vehicle navigation and control

While both roles involve working with autonomous systems, the Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer focuses broadly on developing autonomous technologies across industries, whereas the Autonomous Vehicle Software Engineer specializes in software development for self-driving cars. The former may work on sensors, algorithms, and system integration, while the latter concentrates on vehicle-specific software solutions.

More about Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Systems Safety Engineer - Autonomous Maritime Platforms

Systems Safety Engineer - Autonomous Maritime Platforms

General Dynamics Mission Systems

Taunton, MA • Hybrid

$105K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 186 rated software companies


Job description

Basic Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 2+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree and 6 months of job-related experience.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:
The Autonomous Maritime Platforms Systems Engineering team is looking for a systems safety engineer to join our cross functional team responsible for the development, implementation, and testing of advanced autonomous systems. We are looking for a dynamic individual to take a leadership role in our mission, supporting a variety of our platforms and customers with an emphasis. You will be responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of safety procedures and policies in accordance with customer requirements.
We encourage you to apply if you have any of these preferred skills or experiences:
  • Strong background in the Undersea Domain and Systems engineer process, concepts, and principles
  • Experience in conducting thorough risk assessments and safety analyses for weapons systems and operations.
  • Experience in performing and participating in safety audits, test events, and evaluations to identify potential hazards and mitigation, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
  • Collaborating with engineering development teams and industry partners to design and implement safety systems and controls into the systems we deploy.
  • Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices and tools proficiency.

What sets you apart:
  • Clear understanding of systems engineering concepts, principles, theories, and technical standards
  • Clear understanding of requirements management and system modeling tools
  • Creative thinker with ability to grasp and apply new information quickly and handle increasing responsibilities with growing complexity
  • Team player who thrives in collaborative environments and revels in team success
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development for yourself and others
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is fully on-site or Hybrid/Flex.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Taunton, MA facility [https://gdmissionsystems.com/about-us/major-locations/taunton].
#LI-Hybrid
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $105,230.00 - USD $116,739.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

What General Dynamics Mission Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom