Job Information
MAG Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer in Fairfax, Virginia
Position Summary
MAG is staffing for an Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer who will bridge the critical hardware-software boundary for autonomous tactical systems. You'll modify and enhance systems and solutions that operate independently in GPS-denied environments, from underwater vehicles to aerial swarms, while ensuring reliability in the harshest conditions.
US Citizens Only
Former US Defense Contractor / US Gov / US Military Experience Only
This is a Hybrid Position - Remote mainly - but as well on call to come into a MAG office when requested.
We are seeking candidates who live in proximity to our corporate HQ in Fairfax, VA primarily but will entertain persons living near our satellite offices in:
Aberdeen, MD - Titusville, FL - Newport News, VA - Carthage NC
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities
Enhance or augment embedded software for autonomous vehicles (UGV, UAV, UUV, USV) to extend baseline capabilities
Implement sensor fusion for autonomous navigation (LIDAR, cameras, IMU, sonar)
Design control systems for robotic platforms and actuators
Create hardware abstraction layers following MOSA/SOSA standards
Develop digital twin simulations for hardware-in-the-loop testing
Implement real-time operating systems (RTOS) and safety-critical software
Develop and verify safety-critical software in accordance with established standards and best practices
Design and fabricate custom hardware solutions using 3D printing and rapid prototyping
Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices using SysML/AADL
Secondary Responsibilities
Lead field testing and validation of autonomous systems
Support deployment and troubleshooting in operational environments
Create hardware test fixtures and validation procedures
Document MOSA compliance and interface specifications
Train operators on system capabilities and limitations
Requirements
Experience:
Required Qualifications
5+ years embedded systems and/or robotics development experience
Strong proficiency in C and C++ for real-time for resource-constrained systems
Expert proficiency and practical knowledge of Python for scripting, tooling, and rapid prototyping
Experience with ROS/ROS2 for robotics development
Hands-on experience with autonomous vehicle platforms
Proficiency with CAD tools and 3D printing/fabrication
Understanding of control theory and path planning algorithms
Experience with hardware communication protocols (CAN, I2C, SPI, UART)
Familiarity with MOSA/SOSA standards and open architectures
Experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, MATLAB/Simulink)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms for autonomous systems
Military/defense robotics experience (ROS-M, JAUS)
Hands-on experience with RTOS (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) and/or embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot)
Knowledge of digital twin technologies and real-time simulation
Familiarity with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar safety standards
Experience with swarm robotics and distributed control
Understanding of SLAM and computer vision for navigation
Experience with environmental testing (MIL-STD-810)
Pilot's license or experience with FAA Part 107 operations
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in EE, CE, ME, CS or related field
Clearance:
Must be eligible for Secret security clearance
US Citizenship required
Special Note
What Makes You Successful Here
You can go from CAD design to functioning prototype in days
You understand autonomy from sensors to behavior planning
You apply systems engineering rigor to rapid prototyping
You're comfortable with both lab development and field operations
You see MOSA as an enabler, not a constraint
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Job Locations VA-Fairfax
ID 2025-7925
Type Regular Full-Time
Clearance Ability to Obtain Secret