Are you passionate about computer vision, localization and mapping, and robotics technologies?

Are you excited to work in a collaborative environment focused on developing critical capabilities for national security applications?

If you are seeking leadership opportunities in the fields of Autonomous Systems or Robotics, we'd love to have you join our team!

With the rise of affordable sensing, computing, and control technologies, autonomous systems and robotics have begun to proliferate rapidly. We are seeking a Robotic Systems Software Engineer to help deliver ground-breaking intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (ISR&T) capabilities using unattended, remotely-operated, and autonomous platforms. You will join a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and developers who values initiative, collaboration, and diverse perspectives.

As a member of our team, your primary responsibilities will include...

• Researching techniques for autonomous perception, reasoning, planning, and/or control.
• Leading and contributing to the design, development, and evaluation of robotic sensing systems.
• Document and present findings to collaborators, sponsors, and relevant professional communities.
• Leading the development and proposal of new system concepts to enable the mission of government sponsors.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a field related to the responsibilities above.
• Have experience using 2D/3D camera and/or LIDAR data for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) applications.
• Are proficient developing and troubleshooting software capable of state estimation, planning, navigation, and vehicle control based on point cloud returns from sensors.
• Are highly proficient in software development using Python, C, and/or C++. Familiar with relevant software frameworks such as Robot Operating System (ROS).
• Have strong communication and interpersonal skills, and are skilled at developing relationships across diverse teams.
• Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security 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 a MS degree in a relevant field.
• Possess experience in machine learning for object detection, classification, identification, and tracking. Are proficient with associated software libraries/frameworks such as TensorFlow, and/or PyTorch.
• Have worked with CUDA or other hardware acceleration architectures.
• PID experience or other control theory backgrounds would be a bonus.
• Finally, experience with deploying models at the edge would be a positive differentiator.

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 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

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. 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.

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.