Contract Robot Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Robotics Engineer

Job Description

This role offers the opportunity to lead a new research and development project focused on designing and programming an autonomous industrial vehicle using the Robotics Operating System (ROS). The Robotics Engineer will take ownership of the full development lifecycle, from system design and navigation mapping to testing, commissioning, and client support. This position is ideal for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building innovative robotics solutions in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and guide a multidisciplinary team on a new robotics R&D project, providing technical direction and hands-on support.
• Design, program, and develop an autonomous vehicle using ROS (Robotics Operating System).
• Develop and implement robot navigation algorithms that enable the vehicle to self-navigate under machinery and within complex industrial environments.
• Use blueprints and drawings of existing infrastructure to map out accurate navigation routes and paths for the autonomous vehicle.
• Implement and refine robotics control software using languages such as C++ and Python.
• Test, diagnose, and troubleshoot current and future system malfunctions to ensure reliable and safe operation of the robotic system.
• Continuously improve system performance by analyzing test results and implementing software and hardware optimizations.
• Commission the autonomous vehicle at client sites, ensuring proper installation, configuration, and integration with existing systems.
• Provide technical support, training, and documentation to clients during and after commissioning.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to integrate robotics, mechatronics, and automation components into a cohesive system.
• Apply machine vision and automation techniques where appropriate to enhance system capabilities.
• Use tools such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks to review or support mechanical and layout designs related to the robotic system.
• Work with embedded software and PLC programming as needed to interface with industrial control systems.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including bilingual communication in Spanish when required for client or team interactions.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience with ROS (Robotics Operating System) in developing and deploying robotic systems.
• Hands-on experience programming autonomous or auto-navigation systems for mobile robots or similar platforms.
• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python for robotics applications.
• Solid understanding of robotics and mechatronics principles, including sensors, actuators, and control systems.
• Experience in robotics programming and robotics systems integration.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and infrastructure drawings to support navigation route mapping.
• Experience with testing, diagnosing, and troubleshooting robotics or automation systems.
• Ability to lead and mentor a technical team on a new product or R&D initiative.
• Willingness and ability to travel for commissioning work at client sites as required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with embedded software development for robotics or automation systems.
• Familiarity with PLC programming and industrial automation environments.
• Experience with AutoCAD and SolidWorks for reviewing or supporting mechanical and layout designs.
• Knowledge of machine vision systems and their application in robotics and automation.
• Experienced in mechatronics, robotics engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish, enabling effective communication with diverse teams and clients.
• Experience working on industrial or “industrial Roomba” style autonomous vehicles or similar mobile platforms.

Work Environment

The role is primarily on-site, providing close collaboration with engineering teams and hands-on access to robotics hardware and test environments. Towards the end of the year and as projects reach the commissioning phase, the Robotics Engineer will travel for approximately three weeks to client sites to commission systems and provide on-site support. After initial training and onboarding, there is flexibility to work in a hybrid arrangement, with the possibility of 1–2 days per week remote work when project needs allow. The position offers an exciting, grassroots project environment backed by a company with a long history of success, combining the energy of a startup-like initiative with the stability and resources of an established organization.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $48.08 - $62.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 6, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.