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Job Title


Machine Learning Engineer II


Company : AeroVironment


Location : Centreville, VA


Created : 2026-02-17


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Worker TypeRegularJob DescriptionSummaryThe Machine Learning Engineer II 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.Position ResponsibilitiesSupport 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 payloadWrite 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 affectImplement Machine Learning systems and validate designs through a series of purpose-designed experimentsCreate objectives and develop models that help to achieve them, along with metrics to track their progressPerform analysis tasks using AeroVironment and industry developed toolsManaging available resources such as hardware, data, and personnel so that deadlines are metAnalyze the ML algorithms to solve a given problem and ranking them by their success probabilityPerformance when deploying the model in the real world; Verify data quality, and/or ensure it via data cleaningAnalyze the errors of the model and designing strategies to overcome themStudy and transform data science prototypes; Research and implement appropriate ML algorithms and toolsSelect appropriate datasets and data representation methods; Run machine learning tests and experimentsWorks on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of variety of factors. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate actionOther duties as assignedBasic 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 EngineeringMinimum of 2 - 5 years' relevant experienceFamiliarity with C/C++ and Matlab requiredFamiliarity with office software and computer-based productivity toolsDemonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systemsOther matrixed skills include:Proficiency with a deep learning framework such as TensorFlow or KerasProficiency with Python and basic libraries for machine learning such as scikit-learn and pandasExpertise in visualizing and manipulating big datasetsProficiency with OpenCVFamiliarity with LinuxAbility to select hardware to run an ML model with the required latencyComputational statisticsMathematical optimizationData miningExploratory data analysisPredictive analyticsOther Qualifications & Desired Competencies)Works well within defined requirements to complete tasks under moderate supervisionMust be a team player and collaborate effectivelyExcellent verbal and written skillsHas effective problem-solving, analytical and interpersonal skillsAble to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of dutiesDisplays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectivesTakes ownership and responsibility for current and past work productsIs committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the companyPhysical DemandsAbility 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 LevelNo ClearanceThe salary range for this role is:$93,371 - $132,300AeroVironment 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:Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.Who We AreBased in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.What We DoBuilding on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.ITARU.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.