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Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autonomous Solutions

Systems Engineer II

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

At ASI , we are revolutionizing industries with state-of-the-art autonomous robotics solutions. We ... As a Systems Engineer , you will lead the development of system and subsystem requirements for ...

Autonomous Solutions

Systems Engineer II

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

At ASI , we are revolutionizing industries with state-of-the-art autonomous robotics solutions. We ... As a Systems Engineer , you will lead the development of system and subsystem requirements for ...

Metron

Chief Engineer, Autonomous Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

Our team is seeking an accomplished technical leader to serve as the Chief Engineer for Autonomous Maritime Systems. The Chief Engineer provides senior-level technical authority for the design ...

Pairty

Autonomous Systems Apprentice

Miami, FL · On-site

We are building internal AI systems, autonomous developer workflows, agent orchestration tooling, and crypto-native products that combine software engineering, automation, and intelligent systems.

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Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer information

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How much do freelance autonomous systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance autonomous systems engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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 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 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.
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Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Autonomous Systems Technical Lead (Sr. Principal Systems Engineer)

Autonomous Systems Technical Lead (Sr. Principal Systems Engineer)

V2X

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

V2X rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 375 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
Working across the globe, V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure from base to battlefield. We bring 120 years of successful mission support to improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. Aligned around a shared purpose, our $3.9B company and 16,000 people work alongside our clients, here and abroad, to tackle their most complex challenges with integrity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.
V2X is seeking an Autonomous Systems Technical Lead with a passion for autonomous vehicle system integration and test to join our Systems Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN. This position involves creating advanced autonomous technologies as part of a fast moving, cross functional team. You'll work closely with partners inside and outside the organization to design and deliver innovative solutions for autonomous vehicles in a variety of operational environments.
Responsibilities
The ideal candidate embraces modern development processes and techniques that improve product quality & team productivity and has experience developing and integrating advanced systems including situational awareness displays, mission computers, avionics, sensors, mission equipment, and radar systems. We are looking for engineers that enjoy a challenge and have a passion to support our DoD customers and international allies.
The Autonomous Systems Technical Lead provides technical and programmatic leadership throughout the development life cycle, from concept development, requirements definition, functional analysis, design review support, system implementation, integration, verification, and validation. The Autonomous Systems Technical Lead will work within a cross-functional Integrated Product Team (IPT), where strong communication and team building skills are critical to success.
Qualifications
Required Skills:
  • At least fifteen (15) years of related engineering experience in systems, software, or hardware engineering.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.
  • Direct responsibility of unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) or autonomous systems design, development, integration, and testing.
  • Demonstrated expertise developing requirements, performing system architecture, and leading hands-on test and integration activities for autonomous or robotics platforms.
  • Experience implementing advanced autonomy algorithms, perception sensor integration (e.g., LIDAR, radar, computer vision), or drive-by-wire subsystems for military or commercial autonomous vehicles.
  • Experience implementing and validating functional safety standards (ex. MIL-STD-882) and supporting cybersecurity risk assessments for vehicle autonomy.
  • Experience providing leadership, technical direction, and guidance to large multi-discipline teams.
  • Experience leading all systems engineering tasks and cross-product activities across the program.
  • Experience leading the development, integration and test of military avionics systems or similarly complex systems.
  • Previous experience as a Lead Systems Engineer, Verification Lead, Integrated Product Team Lead, and/or Product Owner.
  • Experience managing suppliers and overseeing the development of subsystems and components.
  • Ability to take ownership of the engineering scope within the program and drive the necessary tasks to ultimately ensure the cross-function team meets the technical
    requirements.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to effectively communicate to internal and external stakeholders including leading both internal and customer design reviews.
  • In-depth understanding of the System Engineering Lifecycle and processes.
  • Experience leading Trade Studies, performing Risk and Opportunity analyses, and tracking and mitigating risks.
  • Direct experience working with government customers including the US Army, US Navy, USMC and/or USAF.
  • Experience mentoring engineers of all grade levels.
  • Experience planning, executing and leading integration, verification and validation tasks and cross-product activities across the program.

Desired Skills:
  • Experience with machine learning frameworks and AI integration in autonomous systems
  • Experience with Agile development
  • Experience using standard data languages and tools (C/C++, Python, etc.)
  • Knowledge and experience working with digital data standards such as: MIL-STD-1553, MIL-STD-1760, Universal Armament Interface (UAI), Radio Frequency (RF) communication, and ENET protocols.
  • Experience working the front end of the business, creating/reviewing RFPs, SOWs, BOEs, technical volumes, proposals, cost, and schedule estimates.
  • Project management experience including cost, schedule, supplier management, risk, and opportunity assessment.

Education Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related STEM discipline.

At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.
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Hours and flexibility

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About V2X

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1945

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