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Military Robotics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer IV

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$148K - $201K/yr

Government or military robotics program background * ITAR/export-controlled environment experience Compensation and Benefits * $148,750 - $201,250 annually. New hires are typically brought into the ...

Software Engineer, Robotics

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$166K - $282K/yr

S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology ... ABOUT THE TEAM The Air Defense team builds robots that find other robots and knock them out of the ...

In this role, you will: * Develop robotic solutions to manipulate and control biology tools ... status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state ...

Robotics Software Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$191K - $253K/yr

S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology ... ABOUT THE JOB Robotics Engineers lead the delivery of vehicle perception and planning capability ...

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Showing results 1-20

Military Robotics information

See California salary details

$82.9K

$94.7K

$115K

How much do military robotics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for military robotics in California is $94,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $100,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a military robotics professional?

A Military Robotics job involves designing, developing, and maintaining robotic systems used in defense applications. These professionals work on autonomous drones, ground robots, and AI-driven military technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety. Roles can range from robotics engineers to AI specialists and technicians. Military robotics experts collaborate with defense agencies to create advanced systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, combat, and logistical support.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a military robotics professional?

As a Military Robotics professional, you can expect to work on designing, prototyping, testing, and integrating robotic platforms used for reconnaissance, logistics, or combat support. Your responsibilities may include writing and debugging code, managing system diagnostics, collaborating with cross-functional teams of engineers and military personnel, and ensuring compliance with defense standards. Projects often involve troubleshooting complex technical issues and implementing field-ready solutions under tight deadlines. Teamwork is essential, as you will regularly work alongside specialists in software, hardware, and military operations. Over time, hands-on experience and project leadership can lead to advanced roles such as systems architect or program manager.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the military robotics position, and why are they important?

Excelling in Military Robotics requires a solid background in robotics engineering, computer programming, and mechanical/electrical systems, often supported by a relevant degree such as electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with control systems, autonomous navigation software, military-grade hardware, and certifications like Security Clearance are frequently necessary. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this field. These attributes are crucial for developing, testing, and maintaining advanced robotic systems in high-stakes defense environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Military Robotics jobs in California? The most popular types of Military Robotics jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Military Robotics jobs? Cities in California with the most Military Robotics job openings:
Infographic showing various Military Robotics job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,742 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Multi-Agent Robotics Fielding Systems Engineer

JPL

Pasadena, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Details
New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers-literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission-your opportunity-is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you're driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you're ready for JPL.
Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.
This position is fora Robotics Systems Engineerwith skills in fielding complex multi-agent robotic systems for the Multi-Agent Robotics Group, part of the Robotic Mobility & Manipulation Section.
The Robotic Mobility & Manipulation Section develops, matures, and brings to space flight, robotics technology for in-situ exploration of the solar system. Example activities include sampling, manipulation, and mobility systems for planetary bodies (Moon, Mars, Venus, Europa, Enceladus, etc...). The Section also provides robotics expertise for space flight hardware and software implementation along with mission operations support.
Opportunity: To work with an enthusiastic multi-disciplinary workforce that originates and executes robotics technology development and space flight projects for terrestrial and planetary exploration applications. This role is focused on fielding complex robotics multi-agent aerospace systems on planetary and military robotic vehicles in support of JPL and other missions. The role requires familiarity with various aspects of a robotic system and ability to interface with sponsor, government team, and JPL engineers and other partners to successfully deploy our robotics multi-agent solutions in often challenging environments under time constraints.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience or a Ph.D. in a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.

  • ROS/ ROS 2 expertise (DDS and other, C++, Python, RViz, Fox Glove) and Linux on embedded platforms (Nvidia family of products, Raspberry Pi, PX4)

  • Experience setting up and running a large, production quality codebases including version control and CI/CD pipelines in very rapid turnaround (typically 1 month field test cycles and daily integration during field test events).

  • Proven knowledge of low-level software integration (e.g. embedded systems, sensor drivers for ROS2), high-reliability / safety-critical code (fail-safes, 'sandboxes' for research code), tooling (optimizing development environments, docker, CI/CD, systems admin), hardware / sensor / payload integration

  • Experience running robotic field tests and proven knowledge of robotics field test safety requirements.

  • Proven proficiency of code deployment (Docker and RPM is a must) on various networked embedded (Nvidia products, Raspberry Pi, and similar) and cluster / cloud compute elements.

  • Working knowledge of all the aspects of robotics (e.g. localization, motion planning, control, hardware, communications, C2)

  • Strong communication skills and ability to work across teams

Please provide contact information for three references
Preferred Qualifications
  • Having performed these functions in fast paced (DARPA and similar) projects is a major plus.

  • UAS and USV expertise and capability to pilot and navigate FAA, DoD, and NASA requirements is a major plus.

  • Familiarity with space robotics

  • Strong software engineering practices

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.
For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks
The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$149,656 - $186,888
JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.
In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
EEO is the Law.
EEO is the Law Supplement
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.