1

Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Arizona

Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

As a Systems Engineer, you will play a pivotal role, recognized for approachability and serving as ... Work autonomously and collaboratively within a dynamic, fast-paced environment, where quick ...

Controls Engineer

Green Valley, AZ · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Tucson Proving Ground, Arizona (100% Onsite) Job Summary We are looking ... Develop and update test plans for autonomous vehicle systems. * Perform integration and validation ...

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... Experience supporting autonomous or semi-autonomous systems, including conveyors, lifts, AS/RS ...

System Engineer

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

$71 - $97.90/hr

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting,maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... Experience supporting autonomous or semi-autonomous systems, including conveyors, lifts, AS/RS ...

The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting,maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro ... Experience supporting autonomous or semi-autonomous systems, including conveyors, lifts, AS/RS ...

Lead AI Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Lead AI Engineer Location: Phoenix AZ/Sunrise FL its day 1 onsite Duration: Long term Skill Set: AI ... Evaluation, observability, and safety tooling for autonomous systems * Lead technical design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer information

What is a freelance autonomous systems engineer?

A Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains autonomous systems—such as robots, drones, or self-driving vehicles—on a contract or project basis rather than as a full-time employee. They often work with various clients to develop intelligent systems that can operate independently using software, sensors, and machine learning. This role typically involves tasks like programming, integrating hardware and software, testing, and troubleshooting. Freelancers in this field enjoy flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects across different industries. They must stay updated with the latest advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and automation technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance autonomous systems engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in robotics, control systems, and programming (such as Python, C++, or ROS), usually supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, MATLAB/Simulink), sensor integration, and experience with machine learning frameworks or embedded systems is highly valued. Effective problem-solving, self-motivation, and strong communication are essential soft skills for managing projects independently and collaborating with diverse clients. These skills ensure the successful design, deployment, and troubleshooting of autonomous solutions in dynamic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance autonomous systems engineers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance autonomous systems engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning with a client’s technical expectations, managing communication across different time zones, and ensuring seamless integration with existing engineering teams. Since projects can vary widely in scope and complexity, it’s important to set clear milestones, maintain detailed documentation, and regularly update clients on progress. Building trust and maintaining transparency are key to successful long-term collaborations, especially when working independently or with distributed teams.

What is the difference between Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer vs Autonomous Vehicle Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Autonomous Systems EngineerAutonomous Vehicle Software Developer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degrees, certifications in robotics or AIComputer science or software engineering degrees, specialized in autonomous systems
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, client sites, remote workCompany offices, R&D labs, remote development teams
Industry UsageConsulting, freelance projects across multiple industriesAutomotive manufacturers, tech companies focused on autonomous vehicles
Search & Comparison IntentFreelance autonomous systems roles, consulting opportunitiesAutonomous vehicle software roles, in-house development

The main difference is that a Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer works independently on various projects across industries, often consulting or contracting. In contrast, an Autonomous Vehicle Software Developer typically works within a company developing software specifically for autonomous vehicles. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in work environment and employment structure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona?

For Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Systems Engineer

Viasat, Inc.

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Viasat rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 99 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

We are looking for a Systems Engineer to join our Operations team! As a Systems Engineer, you will play a pivotal role, recognized for approachability and serving as a key point of contact. This position entails actively contributing to the development of hardware and software test solutions. You will be a part of a group who is responsible for developing diverse hardware and software solutions to test and troubleshoot our esteemed commercial, military, and space products.


The day-to-day
  • Contribute to program responsibilities, including proposal efforts (LOE and ROM), requirements definition, conceptual design, Trade studies, detailed design and drawings, prototype build, integration, and testing.
  • Participate in the software and hardware development of Standard Test Equipment (STE) for complex systems, ensuring adherence to best practices in requirements analysis, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance.
  • Collaborate closely with teams of all aspects of product development and manufacturing including Operations, Quality, Design and Manufacturing to enhance our testing capabilities for new products and refine existing test devices and methodologies.
  • Work autonomously and collaboratively within a dynamic, fast-paced environment, where quick turnarounds are essential to team success.
  • Documentation responsibilities encompass managing requirements using Jama, ability to review electrical wiring diagrams, PWA schematics, mechanical assembly drawings, and, Bills of Materials (BOMs).
  • Conduct peer reviews of electrical and mechanical (EE and ME) and software documentation.
  • Be familiar with product lifecycle management (PLM) software suites, product lifecycle stages, and review and release processes.

What you'll need
  • BA/BS in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in designing complex production test systems compromised of electrical, mechanical and software components.
  • Proven expertise in system design, including gathering and deriving system requirements, verification and process validation.
  • Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, design, implement, and test complex RF, software, electrical, and mechanical systems.
  • Proven track record of coordinating interdisciplinary technical teams across multiple projects, performing analysis, making trade-off decisions, and utilizing formal project management techniques.
  • Strong fundamentals in Electrical, Mechanical, and Software Engineering.
  • Working knowledge of Test Equipment, including but not limited to O-Scopes, Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers, Logic Analyzers, and Signal Generators.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including exceptional design review presentation skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously with minimal instruction, balanced with the ability to seek assistance when needed.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • US citizenship required.
  • Up to 10% travel is required.
  • Must be able to work out of the Carlsbad, CA office or Tempe, AZ office.

What will help you on the job
  • Should be familiar with INCOSE processes and standards for system development and system lifecycle
    Executing AS9100 compliant product development processes.
  • MS in an engineering discipline.
  • Experience in System Testing and Production Testing at various volume levels.
  • Experience in SW Development lifecycle including use of CI/CD and SW repositories.
  • Experience with RF Chain Analysis to verify design margins.
    Proficiency in Solidworks Electrical, Agile (Configuration Management Database), SharePoint, Solidworks 3D, DxDesigner, JIRA, JAMA, ADS, HFSS or equivalent tools.
  • Experience designing Test Fixture and Interface Test Adapter (ITA) designs that meet performance, cost, and manufacturability goals.
  • Security Clearance 

#LI-BBS 


Salary range
$95,000.00 - $149,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $117,500.00- $176,500.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • BA/BS in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in designing complex production test systems compromised of electrical, mechanical and software components.
  • Proven expertise in system design, including gathering and deriving system requirements, verification and process validation.
  • Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, design, implement, and test complex RF, software, electrical, and mechanical systems.
  • Proven track record of coordinating interdisciplinary technical teams across multiple projects, performing analysis, making trade-off decisions, and utilizing formal project management techniques.
  • Strong fundamentals in Electrical, Mechanical, and Software Engineering.
  • Working knowledge of Test Equipment, including but not limited to O-Scopes, Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers, Logic Analyzers, and Signal Generators.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including exceptional design review presentation skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously with minimal instruction, balanced with the ability to seek assistance when needed.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • US citizenship required.
  • Up to 10% travel is required.
  • Must be able to work out of the Carlsbad, CA office or Tempe, AZ office.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986