ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Florida

Marcurius U.S. Inc.

Marine Systems Engineer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Marine Systems Engineer Title: Marine Systems Engineer Location: Clearwater, Florida preferred ... Ensure hull designs support full system integration, coordinating closely with electrical, autonomy ...

CACI International, Inc.

Senior Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required ... You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and ...

CACI

Senior Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$78K - $163K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required ... You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and ...

SmartIPlace

Autonomous test specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

This is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to autonomous vehicle development while ... systems (Git) and issue tracking tools (JIRA or similar) Experience in test engineering, QA, ...

Boeing

Systems Engineer (Experienced)

Orlando, FL · On-site

Systems Engineer (Experienced) Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS ... fully autonomous reusable spaceplane. Position Responsibilities: * Define requirements for ...

New

Marcurius

Marine Systems Engineer

Clearwater, FL · On-site

We are seeking a Marine Systems Engineer to serve as the internal technical authority for hull ... Ensure hull designs support full system integration, coordinating closely with electrical, autonomy ...

Boecore

Staff Systems Engineer

Tampa, FL · Hybrid

Systems Engineering Excellence: Apply advanced problem-solving methodologies to the most complex ... Autonomy & Accountability: Self-directed ownership of complex workloads and team execution plans ...

CACI

Senior Systems Engineer (MBSE)

Sarasota, FL

$114K - $252K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer (MBSE) Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutonomous Systems Engineer JobsFreelance Autonomous Systems Engineer JobsFreelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Florida

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 popular job titles related to Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Florida?

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

What job categories do people searching Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in Florida are:

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

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

Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

UAS Chief Engineer- Additive Manufacturing

AEVEX

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

The UAS Chief Engineer provides technical leadership, strategic direction, and execution oversight for the design, development, integration, and sustainment of advanced additively manufacturing unmanned systems. This role is responsible for end-to-end system engineering across air, ground, maritime, and/or multi-domain unmanned platforms, ensuring mission effectiveness, survivability, cybersecurity resilience, and compliance with applicable defense standards and regulations. The Chief Engineer serves as the primary technical authority for their assigned platform or product area, guiding cross-functional engineering teams, aligning technical roadmaps with customer requirements, and ensuring delivery of high-performance, secure, and reliable systems within cost and schedule constraints. This position works closely with government stakeholders, program management, operations, and executive leadership.
Essential Functions
  • Provide overall technical leadership for additive manufactured unmanned system development programs, from concept through deployment and sustainment.
  • Serve as the technical authority for system architecture, design trade studies, integration strategies, and risk management.
  • Research and drive advancements in designs centered around additive manufacturing of UAS across the portfolio
  • Lead system engineering processes including requirements development, decomposition, verification, validation, and configuration management.
  • Oversee multidisciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, software, controls, AI/ML, autonomy, communications, cybersecurity, and systems engineering).
  • Develop and maintain technical roadmaps aligned with defense customer needs and emerging operational requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable DoD standards, MIL-STDs, airworthiness/safety certifications, cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., RMF), and export regulations (e.g., ITAR/EAR).
  • Direct integration of autonomy, navigation, sensors, communications, propulsion, and payload systems into cohesive, mission-ready platforms.
  • Lead major technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, PRR), ensuring readiness and program maturity at each phase.
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks related to reliability, survivability, resilience, and mission performance.
  • Support proposal development, customer briefings, and technical strategy discussions with government and defense partners.
  • Foster innovation in autonomy, AI-enabled decision-making, resilient communications, and human-machine teaming.
  • Mentor senior engineering staff and establish best practices in additive manufacturing, systems engineering, and product development.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Standard Essential Functions
  • Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
  • Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
  • Embodies AEVEX's cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications and Competencies
  • Security Clearance-Ability to obtain/maintain a Top Secret/SCI DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Demonstrated expertise in complex systems engineering for unmanned or autonomous defense systems.
  • Extensive knowledge in additive manufacturing of UAS systems; composites, polymers, metals.
  • Strong working knowledge of DfX principles; Design for Manufacturability, Procurement, Testability, Modularity, Cost.
  • Strong knowledge of platform integration across hardware, embedded systems, software, autonomy, and communications.
  • Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary technical teams in a regulated defense environment.
  • Deep understanding of systems architecture, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and lifecycle management.
  • Familiarity with defense acquisition processes and government contracting environments.
  • Working knowledge of cybersecurity requirements for defense systems, including secure communications and resilient architectures.
  • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting to senior defense stakeholders.
  • Understand of supply chain as it relates to autonomous systems development, rapid production scaling and design for manufacturing.

Education / Certifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field required.
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related field preferred.

Experience
  • 15+ years of progressive engineering experience in defense, aerospace, robotics, or autonomous systems development.
  • 10+ years of experience with progressive technical experience in engineering roles, with a proven track record of technical design and development
  • 7+ years in senior technical leadership roles (e.g., Lead Engineer, Chief Engineer, Technical Director, or equivalent).
  • 7+ years in senior technical engineering roles centered around additive manufacturing principles, programs, and execution
  • Demonstrated experience leading at least one full lifecycle unmanned or autonomous system development program.
  • Experience interfacing directly with DoD customers, prime contractors, and/or government program offices.
  • Background in integrating sensors, navigation systems, propulsion systems, C2 systems, autonomy software, or mission payloads into operational platforms.
  • Experience with test and evaluation planning, field demonstrations, and operational deployment support.
  • Experience with manufacturing technologies that enable rapid development, test and demonstration of capabilities.
  • Experience with safety-critical systems and applicable certification standards.

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is: Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.
About AEVEX
AEVEX, headquartered in Solana Beach, California, supports the U.S. national security mission and partner nation needs around the world by providing full-spectrum aviation, remote sensing, and analysis solutions. The company's capabilities include custom design and engineering; rapid prototyping; sensor integration and sustainment; aircraft modification and certification; flight test instrumentation and support; mission operations service; advanced intelligence data processing, exploitation, and dissemination solutions; and tailored hardware and software mission-system tools. AEVEX uses agile and customized approaches to rapidly define, develop, and deliver specialized solutions for airborne special mission needs for the U.S. Government, partner nations, and commercial businesses. AEVEX has major offices in California, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia.
AEVEX provides a full suite of comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k)-retirement plan, comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance group coverage with a portion of the premiums paid by the company, professional development funds, and an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with counseling, legal help, child and elder care support, among other benefits for qualified employees.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
AEVEX is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, breast feeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military and veteran status, marital status, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, physical disability, mental disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

Apply