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Manager Robotics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Robotics Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$210K - $259K/yr

Hardware Engineering is an innovative and collaborative group of electrical, mechanical ... Vendor Management: Experience conducting FAT/SAT validation and managing technical deliverables ...

Lab Robotics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $235K/yr

Building and managing a fleet of robots and monitoring systems to proactively identify and address ... programming in Python (web frameworks like Flask/Django a plus!) * Familiarity with molecular ...

Senior Robotics Engineer, Manipulation

Milpitas, CA · On-site +1

$121K - $167K/yr

The company's robots are engineered for demanding industrial environments, with a focus on real ... and stable, managing the complex translation between human intent and the robot's physical ...

Robotics Automation Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Annual Salary Range $120,000-$145,000 USD DOE Automation Robotics Engineer Responsibilities ... Manage the automation development process, including creating project plans and managing timelines.

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Manager Robotics Engineer information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$104.2K

$166.8K

How much do manager robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager robotics engineer in California is $104,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $125,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges a Manager Robotics Engineer might face on the job?

Manager Robotics Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing project timelines with the technical complexity of robotics solutions, ensuring both innovation and safety standards are met. They must coordinate between multidisciplinary teams including software, hardware, and operations, which requires strong organizational and communication skills. Staying current with rapid technological advancements and effectively managing project risks are also key aspects of the role. These challenges offer substantial opportunities for professional growth and impact within the organization.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior robotics engineer or automation engineering manager with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such high salaries are typically found in industries like aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or technology firms, often involving complex projects and advanced certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Manager Robotics Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manager Robotics Engineer, you need a solid background in robotics engineering, leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard robotics programming languages (such as ROS, Python, or C++), automation systems, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is often required. Exceptional problem-solving, team management, and communication skills help drive projects and inspire interdisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure successful delivery of complex robotics projects, innovation, and effective collaboration across departments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior robotics engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, AI, and machine learning, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level managerial roles or specialized positions in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing often offer such compensation, particularly with bonuses and stock options.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics engineering is an active and growing field with applications in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and research. Advances in automation, AI, and sensor technology continue to drive demand for robotics professionals with skills in programming, control systems, and hardware integration.

What is the highest paid job in robotics?

The highest paid roles in robotics are often senior positions such as Robotics Director, Robotics CTO, or specialized engineers like Robotics Solutions Architects, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced technical skills, leadership experience, and often a background in AI, machine learning, or systems integration.

What does a Manager Robotics Engineer do?

A Manager Robotics Engineer oversees the design, development, and implementation of robotic systems while leading a team of engineers. They coordinate projects, ensure technical requirements are met, and collaborate with other departments to optimize automation solutions. Their responsibilities also include budgeting, troubleshooting, and staying updated on industry advancements. Effective leadership and expertise in robotics technology are essential for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Robotics Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Manager Robotics Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Manager Robotics Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Manager Robotics Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,222 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Staff Robotics Engineer

Staff Robotics Engineer

Waymo

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$210K - $259K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Waymo is an autonomous driving technology company with the mission to be the world's most trusted driver. Since its start as the Google Self-Driving Car Project in 2009, Waymo has focused on building the Waymo Driver-The World's Most Experienced Driver™-to improve access to mobility while saving thousands of lives now lost to traffic crashes. The Waymo Driver powers Waymo's fully autonomous ride-hail service and can also be applied to a range of vehicle platforms and product use cases. The Waymo Driver has provided over ten million rider-only trips, enabled by its experience autonomously driving over 100 million miles on public roads and tens of billions in simulation across 15+ U.S. states.
Hardware Engineering is an innovative and collaborative group of electrical, mechanical, reliability, software and vehicle engineers. We design, build, and perfect the products which are the eyes and ears of Waymo's autonomous driving technology, and integrate those products into vehicle platforms. We're seeking curious and talented teammates to keep us moving in the right direction.
This role follows a hybrid work schedule and reports to the Automation Manufacturing Lead.
You will:
  • Subsystem Technical Ownership: Own the end-to-end lifecycle of modular, high-precision mechatronic cells and specialized robotic service modules within a broader automated framework.
  • Universal Framework Development: Architect modular mechanical and electrical systems that can be adapted across diverse AV service applications (e.g., transitioning a motion platform from a cleaning module to a charging or tire-service module).
  • Prototype Integration: Lead the integration of R&D prototypes into high-volume production-ready subsystems, driving the design of electrical and mechanical architectures.
  • Custom Tooling & EOAT: Design and iterate on specialized end-effectors and proprietary hardware interfaces tailored for high-precision physical manipulation and multi-modal processing tasks.
  • Full-Stack Debugging: Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex issues across PLC/Host software, mechanical assemblies, and electrical circuits within the subsystem.

You have:
  • Education: BS/MS in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent.
  • Expertise: 8+ years in automation or equipment engineering, with a focus on mechatronic subsystems and modular machine design.
  • Systems Debugging: Proven ability to debug the "full-stack": PLC logic, high-level code (C# or Python), and complex mechanical/electrical hardware.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with Depot Operations and Manufacturing teams to ensure clear requirement definition and solution compatibility.

We prefer:
  • Robotics & Simulation: Proficiency in ROS2 and IsaacSIM for modeling robotic interactions and path planning.
  • Specific Domain Knowledge: Experience with material handling systems, automated equipment, or productionized robotic solutions.
  • Computer Vision: Familiarity with 3D localization or VLM-based object detection (e.g., perception/ segmentation).
  • Vendor Management: Experience conducting FAT/SAT validation and managing technical deliverables with APAC-based contract manufacturers.

Travel Requirements:
  • Travel to Malaysia (Occasionally)
  • Travel Domestically (Occasionally)

The expected base salary range for this full-time position across US locations is listed below. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the role location or, if the role can be performed remote, the specific salary range for your preferred location, during the hiring process.
Waymo employees are also eligible to participate in Waymo's discretionary annual bonus program, equity incentive plan, and generous Company benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.
Salary Range
$210,000-$259,000 USD