ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Advanced Robotics Group, LLC

Be Seen First

Autonomous Robotics Software Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Autonomous Robotics Software Engineer (Robotics / Autonomy / C++) Advanced Robotics Group, LLC is ... simulation environments · Hands-on experience with robotic platforms and field testing Location ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRobotic Simulation Engineer JobsFreelance Robotic Simulation Engineer JobsFreelance Robotic Simulation Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$30K

$109.2K

$174.7K

How much do freelance robotic simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance robotic simulation engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $109,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,300.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance robotic simulation engineer do?

A Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer designs, develops, and tests virtual models of robotic systems using specialized simulation software. Their work helps companies visualize, optimize, and troubleshoot robotic processes before physical implementation, saving time and resources. They typically collaborate remotely with clients in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and automation to create accurate simulations, analyze performance, and provide technical recommendations. As freelancers, they manage multiple projects and are responsible for their own schedules and client communications.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance robotic simulation engineers when working with diverse client projects?

Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to different simulation platforms, ensuring compatibility with various robot hardware, and meeting tight project deadlines. Each client may use unique software tools or have specific workflow requirements, so the ability to learn and integrate new systems efficiently is essential. Additionally, clear communication and regular updates are vital when collaborating remotely with multidisciplinary teams to align simulation outcomes with client expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance robotic simulation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer, you need strong proficiency in robotics principles, simulation modeling, and programming languages such as Python or C++, often backed by a degree in engineering or computer science. Expertise with simulation platforms like ROS (Robot Operating System), Gazebo, or MATLAB/Simulink, and relevant certifications, are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you deliver effective solutions and collaborate with diverse clients. These skills ensure accurate simulations, successful project outcomes, and sustained client satisfaction in a competitive, technology-driven field.

Are freelance robotic simulation engineers in demand?

Freelance robotic simulation engineers are in growing demand due to the increasing adoption of robotics and automation across industries. Skills in simulation tools like Gazebo, ROS, and MATLAB, along with experience in programming and system modeling, enhance employability in this field. The demand is driven by companies seeking flexible, specialized expertise for testing and development projects.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer job openings:

Freelance Robotic Simulation Engineer jobs near you

2027 Graduate - Subsea Robotics Engineer - Maritime Robotics

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description
Are you excited about developing software that enables autonomous underwater vehicles to operate in challenging real-world environments?
Do you enjoy combining robotics, dynamics, controls, and software engineering to solve complex mission problems? If so, the Maritime Robotics Group is looking for an early-career Subsea Robotics Engineer to join our Modeling and Control team.
Our mission is to develop, integrate, test, and deploy advanced robotic capabilities that provide our nation with an advantage in autonomous maritime systems. We build software that enables autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles to navigate, maneuver, interact with their environment, and accomplish challenging operational missions. Our work spans simulation, controls, autonomy, system integration, laboratory testing, and at-sea experimentation, with an emphasis on delivering robust capabilities that transition to operational systems.
As a member of our team, you will work closely with robotics, software, mechanical, electrical, and ocean engineers to develop and deploy advanced underwater robotic systems.
As a member of our team, you will:
  • Develop robotics software for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and other subsea robotic systems using ROS 2.
  • Design, implement, and maintain modular software in C++ and Python on Linux-based systems.
  • Develop and integrate dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, and autonomy algorithms for underwater robotic platforms.
  • Build high-fidelity simulation environments and modeling tools to support software development, system integration, and mission planning.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and vehicle subsystems into robust robotic software architectures.
  • Evaluate vehicle performance through simulation, laboratory testing, and field experiments, using collected data to improve system performance.
  • Support integration and testing of robotic systems in laboratory, pool, and at-sea environments.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to transition software from development into operational robotic systems.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:
  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
  • Have experience developing robotic software using ROS 2.
  • Have experience developing software on Linux.
  • Are proficient in Python and C++.
  • Have experience developing, implementing, or testing dynamic systems, feedback control algorithms, robotic simulation, or autonomous systems through coursework, research projects, internships, or professional experience.
  • Have familiarity with software engineering best practices, including Git-based version control, debugging, testing, and documentation.
  • Enjoy working in multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging engineering problems.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a 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 experience developing dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, or autonomy software for robotic systems.
  • Have experience modeling and simulating robotic or autonomous systems using Gazebo, Ignition, Stonefish, Isaac Sim, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar tools.
  • Have experience integrating robotic sensors such as IMUs, DVLs, sonars, cameras, pressure sensors, or manipulators.
  • Have experience with state estimation, system identification, trajectory generation, optimization, or motion planning.
  • Have experience with containerized software development, continuous integration, or modern DevSecOps workflows.
  • Have participated in field testing, vehicle integration, or deployment of robotic systems.
  • Have demonstrated initiative in developing new technical capabilities or leading engineering efforts.

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 https://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 Accessibility@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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually

What Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply