Robotics Engineer

Machine Learning Engineer

On-site full-time position, Middle River, Maryland

The Energetics Technology Center, Inc. (ETC) is seeking a full-time mid-Level Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Engineer with the listed qualifications. This position is not remote-work eligible, and the candidate will be required to be on-site during regular work hours. This job requires candidates to occasionally work outdoors in potentially adverse terrain and weather conditions. Additionally, this position may require travel 2-3 times a year for a duration of up to two weeks.

As a mid-level Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Engineer, you will support the development and integration of common control systems, AI-enabled autonomy, and simplified Human-Machine Interface (HMI) technologies for robotic platforms at the Robotics Research Collaboration Campus (R2C2) operations site in Middle River, MD:

• Work independently and/or with a small team to develop, integrate, and test AI/ML-enabled autonomy capabilities and simplified HMI command and control systems on physical robotic and autonomous platforms.


• Adapt existing AI-enabled models by developing effective AI/ML strategies and incorporating concepts such as reinforcement learning and generative AI for real-world robotics applications in Denied, Disrupted, Intermittent, and Limited (DDIL) environments.


• Design, prototype, and evaluate simplified HMI platform command and control interfaces that enhance human-autonomous teaming and can transition into multiple DoD robotic systems.


• Conduct collaborative research, prototyping, field experimentation, and testing of RAS, HMI, and AI/ML technologies at the R2C2 multi-terrain facility (dense forests, fields, simulated urban environment, wetlands, and littoral transition areas).


• Coordinate with ARL researchers to enable successful robotic platform operation, communication, common control, and experimentation in fielded environments.


• Gather requirements, document technical solutions, performance data, and experiment results, and present findings to colleagues and management.

REQUIRED EDUCATION: Bachelors or higher in Robotics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a relevant technical discipline with a focus on robotics, autonomy, or control systems.

EXPERIENCE LEVEL: 2-5 Years

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Have or ability to obtain DoD 8570 IAT II – minimum CompTIA Security+ CE or equivalent within 3 months of the start date.


• Currently possesses or ability to obtain a U.S. SECRET security clearance.


• Strong experience developing, integrating, or deploying AI/ML solutions for robotics or autonomous systems (model adaptation, reinforcement learning, real-time implementation).


• Proficiency in Python and experience with robotics frameworks and middleware (ROS/ROS2 highly preferred).


• Practical experience with physical robotic platforms, sensors, control systems, or field testing of autonomous systems.


• Strong communication and customer service skills.


• Ability to present recommendations, technical reports, and findings clearly and accurately to peers, colleagues, and leadership.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience operating or testing autonomous vehicles, robotic platforms, or unmanned systems in outdoor/multi-terrain environments.


• Familiarity with Linux operating systems (Ubuntu and/or RHEL derivatives), embedded systems, or edge computing for robotics applications.


• Experience with Human-Machine Interface (HMI) design, human-robot interaction, or common control systems for multi-platform autonomy.


• Knowledge of DDIL communications challenges and autonomy in contested environments.


• Interest in operating autonomous vehicles and platforms.


• Familiarity with system and network automation or simulation tools supporting live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) experimentation.