Chief Unmanned Systems Robotics Engineer

Leidos, a global technology leader, is seeking a Chief Unmanned Systems Robotics Engineer for our Sea Systems Business Area within our Defense Systems Sector, supporting the Unmanned Surface and Sub-surface Vessels autonomous systems development.

As Chief Unmanned Systems Robotics Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in developing our guiding technology strategy and vision for unmanned maritime systems. You will work with our existing and potential customers to define their needs and develop delivery models that incorporate the best of Leidos technologies across the enterprise.

Join Leidos in our mission to enhance global security and efficiency through technology and innovation. Be part of a team that champions Integrity, Inclusion, Innovation, Agility, Collaboration, and Commitment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop technology strategies for Unmanned Surface and Sub-surface autonomous systems.
• Work with customers, partners, and commercial companies to define needs and develop cutting edge solutions.
• Participate in internal program and design reviews.
• Work closely with the Sea Systems Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in developing a vision for maritime autonomous systems at Leidos.
• Work closely with the autonomy software team and product managers to architect integrated autonomous systems.
• Bring your technical expertise to bear on supporting technical content in writing proposals.

Basic Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Master's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Science, Engineering, or a related technical field with a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in software development and management. Focus is on robotic systems expertise and not purely software development. The successful candidate must have the overall vision and systems engineering mindset for this position. Demands creativity and intimate knowledge of how autonomous systems work.
• Experience leading large engineering team in the development of Unmanned Systems

U.S. Citizenship & Security Clearance:

• ship required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance and a CI polygraph may be required.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a focus on teamwork and building positive relationships.
• Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills:
• Demonstrated ability to identify and solve complex technical problems and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze data and metrics to drive decision-making.

Security and Compliance:

• Understanding of software security best practices and compliance requirements, particularly in highly regulated environments.

Adaptability and Innovation:

• Willingness to stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends, and the ability to adapt to new challenges and technologies quickly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active Secret or above security clearance
• PhD degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with at least 10 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in unmanned systems communications systems, payloads, positioning systems (Precision, Navigation, and Timing sensors), and robotic/unmanned operating systems
• Experience developing Linux based systems, C++, and unmanned architectures like UMAA, ROS, OpenAUV, and others

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:
October 8, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $154,050.00 - $278,475.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.