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Entry Level Robotics Engineer Jobs in Frederick, MD

Entry Level Robotics Engineer information

See Frederick, MD salary details

$28.8K

$105K

$168K

How much do entry level robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level robotics engineer in Frederick, MD is $105,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $126,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Robotics Engineer Do?

An entry-level robotics engineer works with flexible automation, helping design, build, and test robot systems. The responsibilities of an entry-level robotics engineer are to integrate peripherals, such as controllers, welders, and other equipment; create event timing charts or system device lists; design end-of-arm tooling; investigate unexpected maintenance problems, such as mechanical or electrical failures; and evaluate and analyze robotic prototypes or systems. Other duties include researching robotic technology to use for the creation of new systems and system configuration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Robotics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Robotics Engineer, you need a solid understanding of robotics fundamentals, programming (such as Python or C++), and a degree in robotics, mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, microcontrollers (like Arduino or Raspberry Pi), and robotics simulation tools (such as ROS or Gazebo) is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you stand out in collaborative, project-driven environments. These skills and qualities are vital to efficiently design, implement, and troubleshoot robotic systems while contributing to innovative solutions.

What types of projects and technologies do entry level robotics engineers typically work on?

Entry level robotics engineers are often assigned to support the design, assembly, and testing of robotic systems, such as robotic arms, mobile robots, or automated manufacturing lines. They may work with technologies like sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, and programming languages such as Python or C++. Collaboration is common, as they frequently partner with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to integrate components and troubleshoot issues. This hands-on experience helps new engineers build practical skills and gain exposure to industry-standard tools and processes.

How much do entry-level robotics engineers make in the US?

Entry-level robotics engineers in the US typically earn between $60,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry. Starting salaries may be higher with relevant internships, certifications, or skills in programming languages like Python or C++ and experience with robotics frameworks such as ROS.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics is an active and growing field with ongoing advancements in automation, AI, and sensor technologies. Entry level robotics engineers are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and research, requiring skills in programming, mechanical design, and systems integration.

What is the difference between Entry Level Robotics Engineer vs Robotics Technician?

AspectEntry Level Robotics EngineerRobotics Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical, electrical engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in robotics or automation
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test robotic systems; often in labs or engineering settingsMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair robotic systems; typically in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, tech companies, research labsManufacturing plants, automation companies, industrial facilities

Entry Level Robotics Engineers focus on designing and developing robotic systems, requiring a bachelor's degree, while Robotics Technicians primarily handle maintenance and repairs, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in automation industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Frederick, MD? The most popular types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Frederick, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Robotics Engineer jobs in Frederick, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Robotics Engineer jobs in Frederick, MD are:
What cities near Frederick, MD are hiring for Entry Level Robotics Engineer jobs? Cities near Frederick, MD with the most Entry Level Robotics Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Robotics Engineer job openings in Frederick, MD as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,000 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

NIST PREP Mechanical Engineer in 3D Sensor Testing

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Description:The Intelligent Systems Division at NIST is investigating the performance of 3D vision systems for various manufacturing and automation applications. The research will focus on conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand these systems' performance. This will support the development of performance metrics for these systems for various industrial applications.
Duties:The duties will be tailored to fit the applicant's qualifications, and the applicant will be trained on the use of certain systems needed for the following possible duties:
  • Conduct experiments to realize several existing and novel test methods for 3D vision systems.
  • Research the effects of various physical properties of an object and sensor settings on the test metrics.
  • Program collaborative robot arms for conducting various automation tasks.
  • Use metrology systems (e.g., laser trackers, CMMs, etc.) for establishing reference measurements.
  • Use analysis software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Spatial Analyzer, Polyworks, Excel, etc.) to interpret results and produce visualizations.
  • Write reports and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
  • Work with commercial bin-picking systems.
  • Assist in the development of demonstrations for trade shows and conferences.
  • Write reports and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
  • Work schedule: On-campus (Gaithersburg, MD), Full-time (40hrs/week)

Qualifications:Not all the qualifications below are required.
  • Education: Engineering majors with bachelor's/master's degree, or in final or penultimate years of bachelor's/master's degree.
  • Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks
  • Experience using MATLAB and Python.
  • Programming experience in one or more of the following computer languages: C++, Java
  • Experience using 3D printers.
  • Basic understanding of robot control theory (DH parameters, kinematics, etc.)
  • Basic understanding of 3D sensors such as LiDAR or RGBD cameras
  • Basic understanding of the Unix/Linux operating systems
  • Working knowledge of 3D point cloud data processing techniques using Point Cloud Library (PCL - http://pointclouds.org), CloudCompare, or other similar tools

What is PREP?This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and thus requires that such institutions be the recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration. A candidate hired for this position will be through the university that is associated with the NIST PREP program and will be an employee of that University.
Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0003381