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Perception Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

AeroVironment, Inc.

Software Engineer

Centreville, VA · On-site

Implements and optimizes computer vision and perception algorithms using C++, including build ... Works closely with other software developers to design and reuse developed software to support ...

AeroVironment

Software Engineer

Centreville, VA · On-site

Implements and optimizes computer vision and perception algorithms using C++, including build ... Works closely with other software developers to design and reuse developed software to support ...

Molg

Computer Vision Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

As a Computer Vision Engineer, you will: * Drive the architecture, development, and deployment of ... Own the full vision stack, from sensor selection and calibration through perception algorithms and ...

Navstar

Machine Learning Engineer

Centreville, VA

$102K - $144K/yr

... Perception (LEAP) group in AV's MacCready Works division and support the development of a variety ... Analyze ML algorithms to solve a given problem and rank them by their success probability on new ...

Forterra

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... algorithms and robot perception • Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming Company : Forterra delivers autonomous mission systems for defense. Founded in 2002, the ...

STR

Chief Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$233K - $320K/yr

By leveraging expertise with machine learning, advanced algorithms, and software development best ... Proven understanding of motion planning, constraint optimization, perception, localization, mapping ...

STR

Chief Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$233K - $320K/yr

By leveraging expertise with machine learning, advanced algorithms, and software development best ... Proven understanding of motion planning, constraint optimization, perception, localization, mapping ...

STR

Chief Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$233K - $320K/yr

By leveraging expertise with machine learning, advanced algorithms, and software development best ... Proven understanding of motion planning, constraint optimization, perception, localization, mapping ...

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All JobsPerception Algorithm Engineer JobsPerception Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Perception Algorithm Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$67.4K

$126.4K

$229.9K

How much do perception algorithm engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for perception algorithm engineer in Washington, DC is $126,434.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,200.00 and $150,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Perception Algorithm Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Perception Algorithm Engineer, you need a strong background in computer vision, machine learning, and programming (typically C++ or Python), often supported by a degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenCV, and ROS, as well as experience with sensor data (e.g., LiDAR, cameras), is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are vital to develop robust perception systems that enable autonomous vehicles and robots to interpret and interact safely with complex real-world environments.

What is a Perception Algorithm Engineer?

A Perception Algorithm Engineer is a professional who develops algorithms that enable machines—such as autonomous vehicles or robots—to interpret and understand sensory data from their environment. This typically involves processing data from cameras, lidar, radar, and other sensors to identify objects, track movement, and understand surroundings. Perception Algorithm Engineers work with computer vision, sensor fusion, and machine learning techniques to create reliable and efficient perception systems. Their work is crucial in making machines aware of their surroundings and enabling them to respond appropriately. They often collaborate with hardware, software, and robotics teams to integrate their algorithms into real-world applications.

What are some common challenges faced by Perception Algorithm Engineers when integrating their solutions into autonomous systems?

Perception Algorithm Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring their algorithms perform reliably in diverse real-world environments, such as varying lighting, weather conditions, and sensor noise. Integrating algorithms with hardware requires close collaboration with robotics and systems engineering teams to optimize performance and latency. Additionally, balancing accuracy with computational efficiency is crucial, as perception modules must run in real time on embedded systems. Addressing these challenges involves rigorous testing, continuous model improvement, and effective cross-functional communication.
What are popular job titles related to Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Perception Algorithm Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,434 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Manager, Software - Perception (R3770)

Manager, Software - Perception (R3770)

Shield AI

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on building advanced perception systems that enable autonomous aircraft to operate effectively in complex and contested environments. A successful candidate will be skilled in developing real-time object detection, sensor fusion, and state estimation algorithms using data from diverse mission sensors such as EO/IR cameras, radars, and IMUs. The role requires strong algorithmic thinking, deep familiarity with airborne sensing systems, and the ability to deliver performant software in simulation and real-world conditions. We are seeking a skilled and motivated manager to lead technical teams and support direct projects integrating perception solutions for defense platforms.
 
Shield AI is committed to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned aircraft operating across all Department of Defense (DoD) domains, including air, sea, and land. Our Perception Engineers are instrumental in creating the situational awareness that underpins autonomy, ensuring our systems understand and respond to the operational environment with speed, precision, and resilience.
What you'll do:
  • Multidisciplinary Team Leadership - Lead teams across autonomy, integration, and testing by aligning technical efforts, resolving cross-functional challenges, and driving mission-focused execution. Balance hands-on technical oversight with performance optimization, innovation, and clear stakeholder communication.
  • Develop advanced perception algorithms - Design and implement robust algorithms for object detection, classification, and multi-target tracking across diverse sensor modalities.
  • Implement sensor fusion frameworks - Integrate data from vision systems, radars, and other mission sensors using probabilistic and deterministic fusion techniques to generate accurate situational awareness.
  • Develop state estimation capabilities - Design and refine algorithms for localization and pose estimation using IMU, GPS, vision, and other onboard sensing inputs to enable stable and accurate navigation.
  • Analyze and utilize sensor ICDs - Interpret interface control documents (ICDs) and technical specifications for aircraft-mounted sensors to ensure correct data handling, interpretation, and synchronization.
  • Optimize perception performance - Tune and evaluate perception pipelines for performance, robustness, and real-time efficiency in both simulation and real-world environments.
  • Support autonomy integration - Work closely with autonomy, systems, and integration teams to interface perception outputs with planning, behaviors, and decision-making modules.
  • Validate in simulated and operational settings - Leverage synthetic data, simulation environments, and field testing to validate algorithm accuracy and mission readiness.
  • Collaborate with hardware and sensor teams - Ensure seamless integration of perception algorithms with onboard compute platforms and diverse sensor payloads.
  • Drive innovation in airborne sensing - Contribute novel ideas and state-of-the-art techniques to advance real-time perception capabilities for unmanned aircraft operating in complex, GPS-denied, or contested environments.
  • Travel Requirement - Members of this team typically travel around 10-15% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).
Required Qualifications:
  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience
  • Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 5 years and a Master's degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in Unmanned Systems programs in the DoD or applied R&D
  • 2+ years of people leadership experience
  • Background in implementing algorithms such as Kalman Filters, multi-target tracking, or deep learning-based detection models.
  • Familiarity with fusing data from radar, EO/IR cameras, or other sensors using probabilistic or rule-based approaches.
  • Familiarity with SLAM, visual-inertial odometry, or sensor-fused localization approaches in real-time applications.
  • Ability to interpret and work with Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and hardware integration specs.
  • Proficiency with version control, debugging, and test-driven development in cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Hands-on integration or algorithm development with airborne sensing systems.
  • Experience with ML frameworks such as PyTorch or Tensorflow, particularly for vision-based object detection or classification tasks.
  • Experience deploying perception software on SWaP-constrained platforms.
  • Familiarity with validating perception systems during flight test events or operational environments.
  • Understanding of sensing challenges in denied or degraded conditions.
  • Exposure to perception applications across air, maritime, and ground platforms.
$220,441 - $330,661 a year
#LI-ED1
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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