ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contractual Robot Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsContractual Robot Design Jobs

Contractual Robot Design information

See salary details

$16

$36

$53

How much do contractual robot design jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contractual robot design in the United States is $36.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Robot Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contractual Robot Designer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, robotics, and CAD design, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with robotics development platforms, programming languages like Python or C++, and simulation software such as ROS or SolidWorks is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure innovative, functional robot designs that meet client specifications and project goals within set timelines.

What are the typical challenges faced when working as a contractual robot designer, and how can they be addressed?

Contractual robot designers often face challenges such as rapidly adapting to new client requirements, managing tight project deadlines, and integrating their designs into existing systems. Since contractual roles can involve working with multiple clients or industries, designers must quickly understand different technical standards and collaborate efficiently with diverse engineering teams. To address these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with stakeholders, stay organized with project management tools, and continuously update technical skills to remain competitive and effective in varied environments.

What is a Contractual Robot Designer?

A Contractual Robot Designer is a professional who creates and develops robotic systems or components on a contract basis, rather than as a full-time employee. These designers work with clients to understand project requirements, design robotic solutions, and often assist with prototyping and testing. Their expertise can range from mechanical and electronic design to software programming, depending on the project. Contractual Robot Designers typically work for multiple clients, providing flexible and specialized services for industrial, commercial, or research applications.

What is the difference between Contractual Robot Design vs Mechanical Robot Engineer?

AspectContractual Robot DesignMechanical Robot Engineer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degrees, certifications in robotics or automationMechanical engineering degree, robotics certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentProject-based, client sites, design studiosDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, research centers
Industry UsageUsed by robotics firms, automation companies, consulting agenciesEmployed in manufacturing, R&D, and industrial sectors

Contractual Robot Design focuses on creating robotic systems on a project basis, often for specific clients, emphasizing design and customization. Mechanical Robot Engineers typically work within companies or labs, involved in ongoing development, testing, and manufacturing of robotic systems. Both roles require engineering credentials, but Contractual Robot Design is more client and project-oriented, while Mechanical Robot Engineering is more technical and production-focused.

More about Contractual Robot Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractual Robot Design jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Robot Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Robot Design jobs? The most popular types of Robot Design jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Contractual Robot Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contractual Robot Design jobs are:
Contractual Robot Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual Robot Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,712 per year, or $36.9 per hour.
2026 PhD Graduate - Robotic/Autonomous Systems Engineer - Maritime Robotics Group

2026 PhD Graduate - Robotic/Autonomous Systems Engineer - Maritime Robotics Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 56 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about developing solutions to challenging problems in the field of robotics?
Do you love working in a collaborative environment with engineers of varied backgrounds and experiences?
If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field and wish to work on some of the most challenging technical problems in robotics, we'd love to have you join our team! We are seeking engineers with educational experience and interest that aligns with the broad, exciting field of robotics. You will join a hardworking team of engineers in a collaborative development environment that spans software, hardware, and field testing. Our team works across a broad range of disciplines including machine perception, autonomous decision-making, data fusion, control systems, and mechanical design with applications across Uncrewed Air, Sea Surface, and Underwater vehicles. We are passionate about creating novel robotic solutions for our nation's Navy as well as committed to developing exceptional engineering talent and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
As a member of our team..
  • Your primary responsibilty will be to prototype next-generation robotic solutions to help address critical challenges facing our Navy.
  • You will work on highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams to solve problems that span both software and hardware.
  • You will be part of an outstanding, dedicated team of engineers with deep experience in rapidly prototyping solutions from conception through field testing.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Are skilled in software or mechanical design methodologies and techniques that can be applied to robotic systems
  • Have a passion for learning and a willingness to pick up and apply new skills.
  • Have the ability to work and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Note: When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
  • Are able to obtain a Interim Secret security clearance to start and a final Secret Clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have research, classroom, or professional experience working closely with robotic systems, autonomous systems, or machine perception (including machine learning) algorithms.
  • Have experience developing in a modern, collaborative software or hardware development environment.
  • Possess a current active Secret clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

Apply