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Cognitive Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Human Factors Scientist II

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Knowledge of cognitive engineering, system safety, and human-machine interface design is valued * Familiarity with aerospace industry standards and certification processes is valued Core Competencies ...

Node.Digital

RPA Developer with AI

Herndon, VA · On-site

D i gital is an independent Digital Automation & Cognitive Engineering company that integrates best-of-breed technologies to accelerate business impact. Our Core Values help us in our mission. They ...

Node.Digital

RPA Developer with AI

Herndon, VA · On-site

D i gital is an independent Digital Automation & Cognitive Engineering company that integrates best-of-breed technologies to accelerate business impact. Our Core Values help us in our mission. They ...

Gateway Foundation

Cognitive Counselor

Malone, FL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Preparing appropriate cognitive intervention plans, in accordance with established standards and ... Participating in staff meetings to review client progress, intervention programming and recommend ...

Gateway Foundation

Cognitive Counselor

Malone, FL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Preparing appropriate cognitive intervention plans, in accordance with established standards and ... Participating in staff meetings to review client progress, intervention programming and recommend ...

Alpharus Health

Cognitive Counselor

Malone, FL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Preparing appropriate cognitive intervention plans, in accordance with established standards and ... Participating in staff meetings to review client progress, intervention programming and recommend ...

Node.Digital LLC

RPA Developer with AI

Herndon, VA · On-site

D i gital is an independent Digital Automation & Cognitive Engineering company that integrates best-of-breed technologies to accelerate business impact. OUR CORE VALUES **Identifying the~RIGHT PEOPLE ...

Node.Digital

RPA Developer with AI

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

D i gital is an independent Digital Automation & Cognitive Engineering company that integrates best-of-breed technologies to accelerate business impact. Our Core Values help us in our mission. They ...

Medline

Senior Human Factors Engineer

Northfield, IL

$101K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering, Usability Engineering, Cognitive/Experimental Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Cognitive Engineering, or related field. Work ...

Medline

Senior Human Factors Engineer

Northfield, IL

$101K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering, Usability Engineering, Cognitive/Experimental Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Cognitive Engineering, or related field. Work ...

Medline

Senior Human Factors Engineer

Northfield, IL · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Education Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering, Usability Engineering, Cognitive/Experimental Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Cognitive Engineering, or related ...

Medline

Senior Human Factors Engineer

Northfield, IL · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering, Usability Engineering, Cognitive/Experimental Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Cognitive Engineering, or related field. Work ...

SAIC

UX Designer

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Or Master's Degree preferred in UX Design, Human Factors, Cognitive Engineering, or a related technical or behavioral science field Required Experience: * Eight (8+) years of progressive experience ...

SAIC

User Experience (UX) Field Researcher

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Human Factors Engineering, Cognitive Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Design, or a related discipline * OR Master's Degree preferred in Human Factors, UX Design ...

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How much do cognitive engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive engineering in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cognitive engineering job?

A Cognitive Engineering job involves designing and optimizing systems that enhance human decision-making, problem-solving, and interaction with technology. Professionals in this field apply principles from psychology, artificial intelligence, and human factors engineering to improve user experiences and system efficiency. They work in domains like healthcare, aviation, autonomous systems, and AI-driven applications. The goal is to create intuitive and intelligent systems that complement human cognitive abilities and reduce errors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cognitive engineering?

To thrive as a Cognitive Engineer, a strong background in psychology, human factors, computer science, or related fields is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in human-computer interaction (HCI) tools, usability testing software, and cognitive modeling platforms is highly valued, as are certifications like Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE). Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are critical for designing systems and products that align with human cognitive capabilities, ensuring both safety and usability.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environment for a cognitive engineer?

Cognitive Engineers typically spend their days analyzing user behaviors, designing user interfaces, creating cognitive models, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams such as software developers, product managers, and UX designers. Much of the work involves conducting user research, running usability studies, and iteratively improving products based on data-driven insights. Work environments can range from tech companies to research institutions, often with opportunities for remote or hybrid schedules. Teamwork is a significant aspect of the role, as Cognitive Engineers often bridge the gap between technical development and user needs. This setting fosters ongoing professional learning and provides a clear path toward roles in user experience leadership or advanced human factors research.

How much do cognitive engineers make?

Cognitive engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work with AI, machine learning, and data analysis tools, and advanced skills can lead to higher compensation.

What does a cognitive engineer do?

A cognitive engineer designs and develops systems that mimic human thought processes, such as perception, reasoning, and decision-making. They often work with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human-computer interaction to improve system performance and usability, typically requiring skills in programming, psychology, and data analysis.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Engineering jobs?

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cognitive engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.

2026 PhD Graduate - Neural and Cognitive Engineering Researcher

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about designing systems or algorithms using what we know about the mind and brain?
Do you want to help invent the future of how people interact with intelligent systems?
If you are graduating with a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a related subject area, we'd love to have you join our team!
We are seeking a researcher to contribute to and lead pioneering work in connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research. We are a large multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists engaged in groundbreaking research in applied neuroscience, artificial intelligence, robotics, and complex systems. We are looking for a motivated and collaborative teammate to support research and development of intelligent systems as a strategic advantage for the nation.
As a Neural and Cognitive Engineering Researcher...
  • Your primary role will be developing algorithms and/or systems in domains spanning connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research.
  • You will make an impact as an emerging leader on a multi-disciplinary research team, collaboratively leading and conducting pioneering research with government and commercial partners.
  • You will collaborate with engineers and scientists to design and perform human subjects research, machine learning, software development, and/or biomedical signal processing.
  • You will communicate key findings both internally across teams and externally to sponsors, including in proposal development.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a related discipline
  • Have classroom or professional experience developing software and/or data analysis scripts
  • Have classroom or professional experience conducting research on connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research
  • Are able to obtain a final Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have classroom or professional experience developing and/or implementing machine learning algorithms applied to biomedical data, including but not limited to neurophysiological data
  • Have experience working on a fast-paced government-funded effort (e.g., DARPA project).
  • Have a Secret level security clearance or above.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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