Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

NOTE: to qualify for this role, you must be a U.S. Citizen

Summary

The Senior Machine Learning Engineer will have the opportunity to interact with R&D Group to develop a variety of innovative computer vision detection, classification, localization, and tracking solutions for defense and commercial applications. These development efforts will generally be small focused design teams which will require a senior machine learning engineer to use a range of skills and tools across traditional engineering, computer science, and mathematical disciplines including computer vision, machine learning, optimization, deep convolutional neural networks, and visual tracking.

This position will work on a variety of stages of development including requirements definition, concept design, prototyping, detailed design, test and evaluation and validation and verification testing.

Citizenship

To qualify for this role US citizenship is required.

Position Responsibilities

Support development of computer vision and machine learning algorithms capable of detection, classifying, localizing, and tracking objects-of-interest from a group 1 UAV using the existing gimballed camera payload
Write and test software to support the integration of machine learning algorithms into aircraft (such as autopilots, payloads, or other functional components) or other robotic systems
Explore and visualize data to gain an understanding of it, then identifying differences in data distribution that could affect
Implement Machine Learning systems and validate designs through a series of purpose-designed experiments
Create objectives and develop models that help to achieve them, along with metrics to track their progress
Perform analysis tasks using AeroVironment and industry developed tools
Managing available resources such as hardware, data, and personnel so that deadlines are met
Analyze the ML algorithms to solve a given problem and ranking them by their success probability
Performance when deploying the model in the real world; Verify data quality, and/or ensure it via data cleaning
Analyze the errors of the model and designing strategies to overcome them
Study and transform data science prototypes; Research & implement appropriate ML algorithms & tools
Select appropriate datasets and data representation methods; Run machine learning tests and experiments
Works on problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors; Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods & techniques for obtaining solutions
Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

BS in Computer Vision and Machine Learning is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience - with qualifications in any of the following fields: Mathematics, Optimization, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering
Minimum of 5 - 8 years' relevant experience
Familiarity with C/C++ and Matlab required
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systems
Familiarity with office software and computer-based productivity tools

Other matrixed skills include:

Proficiency with a deep learning framework such as TensorFlow or Keras
Proficiency with Python and basic libraries for machine learning such as scikit-learn and pandas
Expertise in visualizing and manipulating big datasets
Proficiency with OpenCV
Familiarity with Linux
Ability to select hardware to run an ML model with the required latency
Computational statistics
Mathematical optimization
Data mining
Exploratory data analysis
Predictive analytics

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

Advanced degree is preferred
Works well within defined requirements to complete tasks with little instruction
Must be a team player and collaborate effectively
Excellent verbal and written skills
Has effective problem-solving, analytical and interpersonal skills
Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company

Physical Demands

Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Constant)
Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

Clearance Level

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:

$129,500 - $197,500

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

About AV:

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.

We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.

If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR

U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.

About the company

AeroVironment designs and builds defense robotic systems for air, land, and space, including small hand-launched drones, high-altitude surveillance aircraft, and the Switchblade loitering munition. Its products operate as autonomous or semi-autonomous platforms with sensors, control software, and payloads, enabling reconnaissance and, for weapons-enabled models, targeted strikes. It differentiates itself by combining a deep unmanned-aircraft heritage with a growing multi-domain defense portfolio and strategic acquisitions to broaden capabilities into space tech, counter-UAS, and directed energy. Its goal is to become a broad defense-technology provider that wins large, long-term contracts by offering integrated, autonomous systems across multiple domains.

Company Size

1,001-5,000

Company Stage

IPO

Headquarters

Crystal City, Virginia

Founded

1971

Get referred to AeroVironment

See people who can refer or advise you

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

September 9, 2026 revenue hit $480.5 million with $1.5 billion funded backlog.
LOCUST won a first international order over $50 million on September 8, 2026.
P550, Titan MS, and E-HEL bookings diversify growth beyond Raven and Switchblade.

What critics are saying

SCAR's March 2026 termination erased a $1.7 billion program and sparked a lawsuit.
Fiscal 2027 free cash flow stays negative as facility capex peaks across four states.
Boeing, Anduril, and cheaper drone suppliers pressure AVAV pricing and win rates.

What makes AeroVironment unique

LOCUST became the Army's first production high-energy laser contract on September 2, 2026.
BlueHalo and ESAero give AVAV space, cyber, directed energy, and UAS breadth.
AVAV's national manufacturing footprint and AV_Halo software stack tie systems together.

Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?

Benefits

Health, Dental, & Vision
Health Savings Account
401(k) Account
Alternative Work Schedule
Educational and Tuition Assistance Programs
Employee Assistance Program
Sick Leave Donation
Time Off
Travel Assistance
Company Sponsored Events

Growth & Insights and Company News

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

14%

Defence24 sp. z o.o.

Oct 22nd, 2026

Taiwan receives US Support for drone technologies.

Taiwan receives US Support for drone technologies. 22 October 2026, 08:00 Despite opposition from Beijing, the Americans are seriously exploring opportunities to cooperate with Taiwan on unmanned systems. This could result in intelligent Taiwanese 'Shaheds' and unmanned surface vessels equipped with American loitering munitions. US company AeroVironment and Taiwan's Thunder Tiger signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the AUSA 2026 exhibition in Washington on 16 October 2026. Under the agreement, the companies will explore the possible details of future cooperation 'on the integration of unmanned systems, potential localisation of production and joint manufacturing of uncrewed aerial vehicles, as well as the joint development of future technological capabilities in Taiwan'. The newly signed MoU is significant because it could lead to the first transfer of drone technology between Taiwan and the United States - in both directions. Both AeroVironment and Thunder Tiger have their own solutions, and integrating them could create synergies. While American drones are well known, not least because they continue to be used effectively in Ukraine, Taiwanese unmanned systems face considerable difficulties gaining a foothold in the market, primarily because of Beijing's hostile stance. Thunder Tiger nevertheless offers an entire range of drones, extending beyond aerial platforms. Its portfolio includes the SeaShark family of aluminium-alloy uncrewed surface vessels, advertised as having stealth characteristics. The six-metre SeaShark 600 unmanned surface vessel displayed in the United States can operate within a radius of 350 km while carrying a 400 kg combat payload, at a maximum speed of approximately 43 knots (80 km/h). Interestingly, at AUSA 2026 it was shown with American equipment: a Bullfrog M2 remotely operated counter-drone weapon station, developed by US company Allen Control Systems and fitted with a 12.7 mm (.50-cal.) machine gun, together with four stern-mounted canisters for AeroVironment's Switchblade 300 loitering munitions. The MoU signed during AUSA 2026 also envisages integrating American Switchblade drones with Taiwanese uncrewed surface and ground vehicles. This combination will give Taiwan's uncrewed boats a self-defence capability through the Bullfrog weapon station, which can engage Group 1-3 drones at distances of up to 1,500 m. It will also enable precision strikes in high-threat littoral waters using Switchblade 300 Block 20 drones, which have an endurance of more than 20 minutes and a range of up to 30 km. Earlier work on the extensive incorporation of artificial intelligence into SeaShark vessels should also be noted. This resulted in maritime exercises in July 2026 involving these uncrewed vessels equipped with Hivemind autonomy software from US company Shield AI. Among other functions, the system enabled autonomous navigation, allocated tasks among cooperating drones and coordinated their movements during an escort mission. Taiwan's offering also includes ground drones. One example displayed at AUSA 2026 in Washington was the four-wheeled Ultrabuggy uncrewed vehicle. Measuring 2.4 m in length, it can carry a half-tonne payload within a radius of 100 km at speeds exceeding 30 km/h. It can serve as either a logistics or a combat platform. The vehicle was displayed with a model of the Bullfrog M2 machine-gun weapon station, while visualisations also showed it carrying launch modules for aerial interceptor drones. Taiwanese uavs. Taiwanese aerial drones may also have attracted American interest, particularly the Papadelta PD-136 and Papadelta PD-136J, counterparts to Iran's Shaheds. These delta-wing drones, with a wingspan of 2.5 m and a length of 3 m, differ in their propulsion systems. The Papadelta PD-136 is a piston-engined 'Shahed' capable of carrying a 12 kg payload over a distance of 500 km at a speed of 100-150 km/h. The Papadelta PD-136J uses a CS-80 micro-turbojet engine, developed by Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST). This increases its speed to 500 km/h, with a 12 kg combat payload and a range of 300 km. These systems remain under development and are not yet ready for series production. Thunder Tiger only completed flight tests of the Papadelta PD-136 in Taiwan's Yunlin County on 5 October 2026. The drone was launched using a pneumatic catapult and flew its programmed route without any problems. A distinguishing feature of the Papadelta drones is the material used for their fuselages. Rather than composites, the Taiwanese use aluminium sheets formed by stamping with an industrial press exerting a force of 1,700 tonnes. The press was previously used by a Thunder Tiger subsidiary to manufacture aluminium yachts. This material slightly increases the drone's weight but also simplifies and accelerates production, making it easier to assemble large numbers of drones at once. This capacity for mass production will be much needed, as Taiwan already regards Papadelta drones as an important means of deterring China. The Taiwan Strait is approximately 130 km wide at its narrowest point, meaning these 'Shaheds' could potentially strike military targets along a substantial stretch of China's coastline, particularly in Fujian Province. This increases the risks facing the Chinese armed forces should Beijing decide to attack the island. Moreover, Papadelta production is entirely independent of foreign supplies. Thunder Tiger's portfolio also includes other kamikaze drones, encompassing both vertical take-off aircraft and small fixed-wing platforms. An interesting example in the latter category is the Overkill Striker 230 uncrewed aircraft, with a wingspan of 2.3 m and a take-off weight of approximately 13 kg. It stands out from other solutions of this kind by offering a choice of two propulsion systems, resulting in different performance characteristics. With an electric motor, the drone has a range of up to 30 km, a stated endurance of 30 minutes and a maximum speed of no more than 100 km/h, while carrying a 3 kg combat payload. With a diesel engine, its range increases to 70 km, endurance to 60 minutes, maximum speed to 150 km/h and combat payload to 5 kg. Thunder Tiger also offers a family of quadcopters designated Overkill FPV. Using a visually similar carbon-fibre frame design, they are available in several sizes. The 5-inch models have an arm span of 248 mm, weigh 0.5 kg and can carry a 0.5 kg combat payload. For the 7-inch models, the span increases to 30 cm, weight to 1 kg and payload capacity to 1.5 kg. The corresponding figures for the 10-inch models are 45 cm, 2 kg and 2.5 kg, and for the 15-inch models, 70 cm, 5 kg and 5 kg. These quadcopters can operate for more than half an hour, with a range exceeding 8 km and a maximum speed of 120 km/h. The Taiwanese company also offers the Overkill FPV 30-inch drone, a six-armed multicopter with a span of 160 cm, a weight of 20 kg and a payload capacity of 10 kg. The Americans may be interested in developing some of these solutions.

AeroVironment, Inc.

Oct 14th, 2026

AV and Alpha Unmanned Systems announce MOU to explore JUMP 20 support in Spain.

AV and Alpha Unmanned Systems announce MOU to explore JUMP 20 support in Spain. October 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM EDT Companies to explore local sustainment, training and technical support, with potential expansion into Europe and Latin America ARLINGTON, Va.-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Oct. 14, 2026- AeroVironment, Inc. ("AV") (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global defense technology leader, today announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Alpha Unmanned Systems S.L. to explore collaboration supporting AV's JUMP 20 fixed-wing unmanned aircraft system (UAS), which features vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities. The announcement is being made in connection with the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington. "A platform only delivers value when operators can keep it flying," said Shane Hastings, senior vice president and general manager of uncrewed systems at AV. "This agreement is about exploring how to bring training, maintenance and sustainment closer to JUMP 20 customers in Europe, beginning with opportunities in Spain." The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration on JUMP 20 fielding, sustainment, training, maintenance and in-country and in-theater support, initially focused on Spain. The collaboration may expand to other markets in Europe and Latin America. The companies will also plan to evaluate integration of Alpha's UAV subsystem products, including its GCASE Ground Control Station, GTRACK tracking system and AIS module, into the JUMP 20 platform. "This collaboration with AV is a significant step for Alpha, pairing our subsystem technologies and in-country support capabilities with the JUMP 20 platform," said Eric Freeman, CEO of Alpha Unmanned Systems. "Together, we intend to explore opportunities to strengthen local support for JUMP 20 in Spain, with the potential to support additional customers across Europe." About Alpha Unmanned Systems Alpha Unmanned Systems S.L. is a Madrid-based company that develops unmanned aircraft and related subsystems for defense and security applications. The company provides training, integration and support services. AeroVironment ("AV") (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities - built to meet the mission needs of today's warfighter and tomorrow's conflicts. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com. Safe Harbor Statement Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, plans, forecasts, and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to, its ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain new ones; regulatory changes; supply chain stability, competitor activities; market growth; product development and/or manufacturing challenges; and general economic conditions. For a more detailed discussion of these risks, please refer to AeroVironment's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AeroVironment, Inc. undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events. Media Contact: Deb Richardson [email protected] 667.356.1377 Investor Contact: Denise Pacioni [email protected] 805.795.4108

Yahoo Finance

Oct 14th, 2026

AeroVironment partners with Elsight to add resilient multi-network connectivity to Mayhem 10

AeroVironment (AV) and Elsight have partnered to integrate Elsight's Halo connectivity technology into AV's Mayhem 10 launched effects system. The aim is to keep communications reliable in contested environments. Halo bonds satellite, cellular and point-to-point radio links into one connection. It adapts to changing network conditions without operator intervention, reducing reliance on any single link. Austin Miller, vice president and general manager of AV's loitering munition systems business unit, said Mayhem 10's open architecture lets the company add new capabilities quickly. Integration work is underway, the companies said.

AeroVironment, Inc.

Oct 14th, 2026

AV and Elsight partner to strengthen Mayhem 10 connectivity in contested environments.

AV and Elsight partner to strengthen Mayhem 10 connectivity in contested environments. October 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM EDT Elsight's Halo technology is designed to integrate satellite, cellular and radio communications to reduce single points of failure and operator workload ARLINGTON, Va.-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Oct. 14, 2026- AeroVironment, Inc. ("AV") (NASDAQ: AVAV), and Elsight (ASX: ELS) announced a partnership to integrate Elsight's Halo connectivity technology into AV's Mayhem(TM) 10 launched effects system, strengthening communications resilience in complex and contested environments. The integration will enable Mayhem 10 to intelligently manage multiple communications networks, including satellite, private and public cellular and point-to-point radio, through a single connectivity layer. Elsight's Halois is designed to intelligently bond multiple available communication links into one resilient connection, adapt to changing network conditions and reduce dependence on any single link without requiring operator intervention. "Reliable connectivity is critical to mission success, particularly in contested environments," said Austin Miller vice president and general manager of the loitering munition systems business unit at AV. "Mayhem 10 was built to evolve with the mission. Its open architecture allows us to integrate new capabilities quickly, giving operators more flexibility and resilience as threats and operational demands change." The collaboration builds on Mayhem 10's modular, open architecture, which enables the integration of third-party technologies to expand operational capabilities without redesigning the platform. Integration efforts are underway, with both companies working to advance the combined capability. "Halo was designed to keep missions going, even as communications conditions change," said Yoav Amitai, CEO of Elsight. "Integrating our technology with Mayhem 10 will help operators maintain reliable control across changing and contested environments, without the added workload of managing multiple communications links." About Mayhem 10 Mayhem 10 is AV's autonomous, multi-role launched effects system designed to deliver kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities across air, ground and maritime operations. Its modular architecture supports multiple mission payloads, including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, communications relay and precision strike. AeroVironment ("AV") (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities - built to meet the mission needs of today's warfighter and tomorrow's conflicts. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com. About Elsight Elsight (ASX: ELS) provides the critical enablement layer for uncrewed vehicles, across air, land and maritime domains. Trusted by leading autonomous systems manufacturers, defense organizations, and public safety agencies worldwide, Elsight supports mission-critical operations, where reliability, mobility, and mission certainty matter most. For more information, contact: [email protected]. Safe Harbor Statement Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, plans, forecasts, and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to, its ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain new ones; regulatory changes; supply chain stability, competitor activities; market growth; product development and/or manufacturing challenges; and general economic conditions. For a more detailed discussion of these risks, please refer to AeroVironment's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AeroVironment, Inc. undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events. Media Contact: Deb Richardson [email protected] 667.356.1377 Investor Contact: Denise Pacioni [email protected] 805.795.4108

Overt Defense

Oct 9th, 2026

NIOA and AeroVironment Partner on Switchblade for Australia.

NIOA and AeroVironment Partner on Switchblade for Australia. Australia's NIOA Group and AeroVironment have entered a strategic partnership to introduce, sustain and expand AeroVironment's loitering munitions across Australia and New Zealand, the companies announced at the Land Forces exhibition in Australia. According to NIOA, the agreement "establishes a framework for cooperation across the AeroVironment portfolio, including the combat-proven Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions, and positions NIOA as AeroVironment's local partner for distribution, customer engagement, support and long-term capability development." The two firms stated the arrangement is intended to "support the introduction into service, sustainment and future growth of advanced loitering munitions capabilities across Australia and New Zealand." The partnership names NIOA as the regional point of contact for AeroVironment product distribution, customer engagement and sustainment. Both companies will "also explore opportunities to expand support and industrial capability in Australia," per the release, which pointed to a joint commitment to meet Australian Defence Force requirements and to examine local support, sustainment and future industrial capability development. The arrangement covers AeroVironment's broader portfolio including the Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions. Ben James, NIOA executive vice president for Australia and New Zealand, noted that the country's 2024 Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan, issued by the Australian military, called for introducing the Switchblade 300 into service with the Australian Army "by 2025," following an earlier acquisition announcement. "Combining NIOA's deep expertise in strategic munitions supply, manufacturing and support with AeroVironment's global leadership in loitering munitions and autonomous systems technology represents a significant win for both the ADF and in the integration of Australian and US industrial bases," James said. Justin McFarlin, AeroVironment vice president of international business development, said the partnership with NIOA combines "AeroVironment's combat-proven technologies with a trusted Australian defence industry partner to support customers, strengthen sovereign capability outcomes and establish the foundations for long-term growth across the region."

AeroVironment

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

About the job

About the company

Get referred to AeroVironment

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

What critics are saying

What makes AeroVironment unique

Benefits

Growth & Insights and Company News

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth