Machine Learning Engineer

Job Description

AeroVironment is seeking a Machine Learning Engineer to work with the R&D Group on innovative computer vision detection, classification, localization, and tracking solutions for defense and commercial applications.

Worker Type

Regular

Summary

This position involves collaborating with small focused design teams to develop machine learning and computer vision algorithms across the full development lifecycle, from requirements definition and concept design to prototyping, detailed design, testing, evaluation, validation, and verification.

Position Responsibilities

• Support development of computer vision and machine learning algorithms for detection, classification, localization, and tracking of objects-of-interest from a group 1 UAV using the existing gimballed camera payload.
• Write and test software to integrate machine learning algorithms into aircraft systems such as autopilots, payloads, or other robotic components.
• Explore and visualize data to understand its distribution and identify differences that could affect model performance.
• Implement machine learning systems and validate designs through purpose‑designed experiments.
• Create objectives and develop models that help achieve them, along with metrics to track progress.
• Perform analysis tasks using AeroVironment and industry‑developed tools.
• Manage available resources such as hardware, data, and personnel to meet deadlines.
• Analyze ML algorithms to solve a given problem and rank them by success probability.
• Validate model deployment in real‑world scenarios, verify data quality, and clean data as needed.
• Analyze model errors and design strategies to overcome them.
• Study and transform data‑science prototypes; research and implement appropriate ML algorithms and tools.
• Select appropriate datasets and data representation methods, and run machine‑learning tests and experiments.
• Work on problems of moderate scope, reviewing scenarios or data requiring a review of various factors and exercising judgment within defined procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• BS in Computer Vision and Machine Learning or equivalent education, training, and experience in Mathematics, Optimization, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 2–5 years of relevant experience.
• Familiarity with C/C++ and MATLAB.
• Familiarity with office software and computer‑based productivity tools.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systems.

Other Matrixed Skills Include

• Proficiency with a deep learning framework such as TensorFlow or Keras.
• Proficiency with Python and basic machine‑learning libraries such as scikit-learn and pandas.
• Expertise in visualizing and manipulating large 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

• Works well within defined requirements to complete tasks with moderate supervision.
• Team player who collaborates effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written skills.
• 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.
• Committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve 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

$102,000 – $144,375

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or be approved for an export license if required.

• 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
• U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and obtain a security clearance.

Benefits

AV offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including for applicants with disability and 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.