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Field Robotics Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SLAM Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Vision, Robotics, or a related field - or equivalent ... Direct GPU programming experience - Metal shaders, CUDA kernels, or GPU compute APIs - for ...

SLAM Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Vision, Robotics, or a related field - or equivalent ... Direct GPU programming experience - Metal shaders, CUDA kernels, or GPU compute APIs - for ...

SLAM Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Vision, Robotics, or a related field -- or ... Direct GPU programming experience -- Metal shaders, CUDA kernels, or GPU compute APIs -- for ...

Senior Autonomy Engineer, Integration

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Launched in 2017 with a strong team of experienced roboticists and software engineers with decades of experience fielding robotic systems in the wild, May Mobility is looking to expand its team of ...

Minimum Qualifications * BS in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or related field). Advanced degree preferred. * 8+ years of engineering experience in maritime, robotics, or complex ...

Senior Verification Engineer Liquid Robotics is seeking a Senior Verification Engineer to own test ... This on-site role in Jessup, MD and will work closely with systems engineers, field support ...

Showing results 21-40

Field Robotics Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$17

$38

$61

How much do field robotics engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for field robotics engineer in Washington is $38.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.21 and $46.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a field robotics engineer?

Field robotics engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and deploy robotic systems that operate in complex, unstructured environments outside of traditional factory settings. These environments can include agriculture fields, construction sites, oceans, mines, or disaster areas. Field robotics engineers integrate hardware and software to create robust, autonomous or semi-autonomous robots capable of navigating and performing tasks in challenging real-world conditions. Their work often involves multidisciplinary knowledge in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, as well as a strong understanding of sensors, actuators, and control systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field robotics engineer?

To thrive as a Field Robotics Engineer, you need a solid grasp of robotics fundamentals, programming (such as C++ or Python), and systems integration, often backed by a degree in robotics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with ROS (Robot Operating System), sensor technologies, and hands-on experience with embedded systems or mechatronics is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for handling dynamic field environments and unexpected technical challenges. These skills ensure reliable robot deployment, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in diverse and often unpredictable real-world settings.

What are some common challenges faced by field robotics engineers when deploying robots in real-world environments?

Field Robotics Engineers often encounter unpredictable conditions such as harsh weather, variable terrain, and unexpected obstacles during deployments. These factors can affect robot performance and require quick problem-solving and on-the-spot adaptations. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—including software developers, hardware specialists, and field operators—is essential to troubleshoot issues and ensure smooth operations. The role also involves continuous testing, data collection, and iterative improvements to adapt robots for reliable and safe field use.

What is the difference between Field Robotics Engineer vs Robotics Technician?

AspectField Robotics EngineerRobotics Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in robotics, engineering, or related fields; certifications like FANUC or ABB are commonAssociate's degree or technical certification in robotics or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test robotic systems in the field or lab settingsMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair robotic systems on-site or in workshops
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, agriculture, and exploration industriesPrimarily in manufacturing and industrial settings

While both roles involve working with robotic systems, Field Robotics Engineers focus on designing and developing new robotic solutions, whereas Robotics Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of existing systems. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

Is robotics a high paying field?

Field Robotics Engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to the specialized skills required, such as programming, sensor integration, and automation systems. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry, but overall, robotics is considered a well-paying field with strong growth prospects.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Field Robotics Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Field Robotics Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Field Robotics Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 65% In-person, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,314 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer with Security Clearance

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Summary MAG is staffing for an Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer who will bridge the critical hardware-software boundary for autonomous tactical systems. You'll modify and enhance systems and solutions that operate independently in GPS-denied environments, from underwater vehicles to aerial swarms, while ensuring reliability in the harshest conditions. US Citizens Only Former US Defense Contractor / US Gov / US Military Experience Only This is a Hybrid Position - Remote mainly - but as well on call to come into a MAG office when requested. We are seeking candidates who live in proximity to our corporate HQ in Fairfax, VA primarily but will entertain persons living near our satellite offices in: Aberdeen, MD - Titusville, FL - Newport News, VA - Carthage NC Essential Duties and Responsibilities Primary Responsibilities * Enhance or augment embedded software for autonomous vehicles (UGV, UAV, UUV, USV) to extend baseline capabilities * Implement sensor fusion for autonomous navigation (LIDAR, cameras, IMU, sonar) * Design control systems for robotic platforms and actuators * Create hardware abstraction layers following MOSA/SOSA standards * Develop digital twin simulations for hardware-in-the-loop testing * Implement real-time operating systems (RTOS) and safety-critical software * Develop and verify safety-critical software in accordance with established standards and best practices * Design and fabricate custom hardware solutions using 3D printing and rapid prototyping * Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices using SysML/AADL Secondary Responsibilities * Lead field testing and validation of autonomous systems * Support deployment and troubleshooting in operational environments * Create hardware test fixtures and validation procedures * Document MOSA compliance and interface specifications * Train operators on system capabilities and limitations Requirements Experience: Required Qualifications * 5+ years embedded systems and/or robotics development experience * Strong proficiency in C and C++ for real-time for resource-constrained systems * Expert proficiency and practical knowledge of Python for scripting, tooling, and rapid prototyping * Experience with ROS/ROS2 for robotics development * Hands-on experience with autonomous vehicle platforms * Proficiency with CAD tools and 3D printing/fabrication * Understanding of control theory and path planning algorithms * Experience with hardware communication protocols (CAN, I2C, SPI, UART) * Familiarity with MOSA/SOSA standards and open architectures * Experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, MATLAB/Simulink) Preferred Qualifications * Experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms for autonomous systems * Military/defense robotics experience (ROS-M, JAUS) * Hands-on experience with RTOS (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) and/or embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot) * Knowledge of digital twin technologies and real-time simulation * Familiarity with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar safety standards * Experience with swarm robotics and distributed control * Understanding of SLAM and computer vision for navigation * Experience with environmental testing (MIL-STD-810) * Pilot's license or experience with FAA Part 107 operations Education: * Bachelor's degree in EE, CE, ME, CS or related field Clearance: * Must be eligible for Secret security clearance * US Citizenship required Special Note What Makes You Successful Here * You can go from CAD design to functioning prototype in days * You understand autonomy from sensors to behavior planning * You apply systems engineering rigor to rapid prototyping * You're comfortable with both lab development and field operations * You see MOSA as an enabler, not a constraint