UAV Robotics Engineer: Autonomy & Field Testing

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a UAV Robotics Engineer to conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test advanced UAV systems and payloads for national security programs.

You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, lead field tests, and mentor others while working in a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment that values rapid iteration and rigorous testing.

Qualifications

• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics or related fields, or equivalent years of experience.
• 2+ years of relevant experience working with UAVs, UGVs, UAS or related robotic systems.
• Experience with the design, integration, and flight testing of both fixed‑wing and multirotor UAVs.
• Hold an active Secret security clearance. U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Designing, fabricating, integrating, and testing UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.
• Designing, integrating and testing mission‑critical electronics for a variety of robotic systems.
• Planning, executing, and leading local and remote field tests, incorporating feedback from end users to inform design revisions.
• Serving as a technical lead and mentor within a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Skills

UAV flight testing

Robotics systems integration

Technical leadership

Electronics design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Aeronautical/Robotics/Mechatronics or related (or equivalent experience)

MS or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a UAV Robotics Engineer to conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test advanced UAV systems and payloads for national security programs.

You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, lead field tests, and mentor others while working in a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment that values rapid iteration and rigorous testing.