Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Colorado

This role focuses on the development of advanced control systems to support autonomous vessel operation, navigation, and platform management. It offers a unique opportunity to work on emerging technologies that will define the future of autonomous logistics and maritime operations.

• Design and develop control algorithms and automation systems.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, navigation systems, and mission equipment.
• Support autonomous behaviors and platform management functions.
• Participate in simulation, testing, validation, and demonstration activities.
• Collaborate with software, electrical, systems, and mechanical engineering teams.

• 10+ years of experience in controls, robotics, automation, or autonomous systems engineering.
• Expertise in PLC, embedded systems, CAN bus, controls architecture, or autonomous platforms.
• Experience within defense, aerospace, marine, or unmanned systems programs.
• Strong problem-solving and systems-thinking mindset.

• Autonomous Systems, Control Systems Design, CAN Bus Development, PLC Programming, HMI Development, Sensor Integration, Maritime Autonomy.
• Experience in materials engineering, propulsion systems, GD&T, prototype design, AS9100, ISO 9001, and manufacturing support.

The position offers a hybrid work environment with 3 days onsite and 2 days remote. You will join a small, Senior-level engineering team working on cutting-edge autonomous maritime technologies. The culture is highly technical, fast-paced, and execution-focused. It is best suited for engineers who value ownership, autonomy, challenging problems, and the opportunity to directly impact future programs. The primary attraction is the work itself, not corporate amenities. The environment rewards accountability, innovation, and delivering results. Open to individuals with backgrounds in Naval/Marine, Aerospace, Defense Electronics, or Autonomous Systems.

This is a Permanent position based out of Denver, CO.

The pay range for this position is $130000.00 - $170000.00/yr.

Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability but employee does have to pay a portion. 401K is 3% matching after 1 year. 2 weeks PTO to start, but is negotiable. 9 paid holidays.

This is a hybrid position in Denver,CO.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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