Autonomous UAV Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a UAV Robotics Engineer to conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test novel UAV systems and payloads that advance autonomous capabilities. You will work with a multidisciplinary team on rapid prototyping and rigorous field testing of diverse UAV platforms.

The role requires hands-on development across mechanical, electrical, and software domains, strong problem-solving, and the ability to lead field tests and mentor peers.

Qualifications

• BS in mechanical, electrical, aeronautical, robotics, or mechatronics engineering.
• 2+ years of experience with UAVs/UGVs/USVs or related robotic systems.
• Experience with design, integration, and flight testing of fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs.
• Active Secret clearance and U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Design, fabricate, integrate, and test UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.
• Design, integrate, and test mission-critical electronics for robotic systems.
• Plan, execute, and lead local and remote field tests with user feedback.
• Serve as a technical lead and mentor within a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

UAV integration

Electronics integration

Field testing

Technical leadership

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics

MS/PhD in a relevant engineering discipline

Tools

Flight testing equipment

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a UAV Robotics Engineer to conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test novel UAV systems and payloads that advance autonomous capabilities. You will work with a multidisciplinary team on rapid prototyping and rigorous field testing of diverse UAV platforms.

The role requires hands-on development across mechanical, electrical, and software domains, strong problem-solving, and the ability to lead field tests and mentor peers.