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New Grad Robotics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Robotics Engineer

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Field Robotics Engineer Oakland, CA Full-time First, the good news: The world now has over 2 ... Planted is creating new technology to overhaul how the industry develops and builds solar power ...

Field Robotics Engineer Oakland, CA Full-time First, the good news: The world now has over 2 ... Planted is creating new technology to overhaul how the industry develops and builds solar power ...

... new experiences to Apple products. This position requires a self-motivated robotics engineer with strong technical and interpersonal skills to handle responsibilities including: - Designing and ...

About the Role Hermeus is seeking a hands-on, highly motivated New Grad Manufacturing Engineer to ... Interest in automation, robotic welding, tooling, and manufacturing process improvement. Physical ...

About the Role Hermeus is seeking a hands-on, highly motivated New Grad Manufacturing Engineer to ... Interest in automation, robotic welding, tooling, and manufacturing process improvement. Physical ...

Showing results 21-40

New Grad Robotics Engineer information

What does a new grad robotics engineer do?

A New Grad Robotics Engineer typically supports the design, development, and testing of robotic systems and automation solutions. They work alongside experienced engineers to write code, integrate sensors and actuators, troubleshoot issues, and help improve the performance of robots. These engineers may also assist in prototyping, data analysis, and documentation. The role provides hands-on experience with robotics hardware and software, making it an important entry point for a career in automation and robotics.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a new grad robotics engineer expect in their first year?

As a new grad robotics engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with the design, development, and testing of robotic systems or subsystems. Typical responsibilities may include writing and debugging code for robot control, collaborating with cross-functional teams like mechanical and electrical engineers, and participating in troubleshooting or integration activities. You may also be assigned to support ongoing research, help document technical processes, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation and often opens up future opportunities for specialization or advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad robotics engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a New Grad Robotics Engineer, you typically need a degree in robotics, mechanical engineering, computer science, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of control systems, kinematics, and programming languages such as Python or C++. Familiarity with robotics development platforms (like ROS), CAD software, and hands-on experience with sensors and actuators are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you adapt to complex projects and collaborate across disciplines. These competencies ensure you can design, build, and troubleshoot robotic systems efficiently in a fast-evolving technological environment.

What is the difference between New Grad Robotics Engineer vs Robotics Software Engineer?

AspectNew Grad Robotics EngineerRobotics Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical, electrical engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in computer science, robotics, or related field; programming skills essential
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects in research labs or tech companiesDeveloping and maintaining robotics software in industry or research settings
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, research institutions, tech companies focusing on roboticsTech firms, industrial automation, autonomous vehicle companies

The main difference is that New Grad Robotics Engineers focus on gaining hands-on experience in robotics projects, often with a broader scope including hardware integration. Robotics Software Engineers primarily concentrate on developing and optimizing software solutions for robotics systems, requiring strong programming skills. Both roles are entry-level but differ in their focus areas within the robotics industry.

What cities in California are hiring for New Grad Robotics Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most New Grad Robotics Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various New Grad Robotics Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Robotics Engineer, AI & Software

Foundry Robotics Inc

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Robotics Engineer, AI & Software
Are you a visionary engineer with a passion for robotics and AI, with a knack for thriving in cross-functional environments? We are a seed-stage startup building cutting-edge robotics solutions for the manufacturing industry, and we're looking for a Founding Engineer to join our core team. This role is for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes immense ownership, and isn't afraid to get into the weeds of complex mechanical and manufacturing challenges.
About Us
We are reimagining manufacturing through advanced robotics. Our mission is to rebuild the American manufacturing industry as an AI-first, assembly-focused, dual-use contract manufacturer. We aim to empower manufacturers with intelligent, efficient, and adaptable robotic systems that redefine productivity and quality. As a founding member of our engineering team, you will have a direct and significant impact on our product, culture, and ultimate success. This role is 100% in-person at our office in the mission, SF.
The Role
As a founding member of our Engineering team, you will be instrumental in designing, developing, and deploying the AI and software infrastructure for our autonomous robotics systems. This role demands a hands-on approach, a deep understanding of computer vision and VLA models, and expertise in ROS. You will be responsible for building high-quality, performant software optimized for the rigorous demands of a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and implement AI and software solutions for autonomous robotics in manufacturing.
  • Lead the development of computer vision algorithms and VLA models for robotic perception and control.
  • Architect and build robust, scalable, and high-performance software systems optimized for 5 9's reliability.
  • Utilize ROS2 (Robot Operating System) for various robotic applications.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, product managers, and other stakeholders.
  • Take ownership of critical software components from concept to deployment.
  • Act as a key technical liaison with vendors, partners, and customers, often representing the company in external interactions.
  • Contribute to the overall technical strategy and roadmap of the company.

What We're Looking For
  • AI and Software Expertise: Proven experience in developing AI-driven software for autonomous systems, with strong expertise in computer vision and VLA models.
  • ROS Proficiency: Hands-on experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) for robotics development.
  • High-Quality Software Development: A track record of building performant, reliable, and maintainable software, with an understanding of software optimization for critical applications.
  • Fast-Paced and Ownership-Driven: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment, taking full ownership of projects and initiatives.
  • Hands-on and Detail-Oriented: Willingness to "get into the weeds" and address technical challenges directly.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable engaging with vendors, partners, and customers.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a creative approach to technical challenges.

Nice to Have
  • Ability to obtain a government security clearance.
  • PhD in Robotics from a notable research university.
  • Experience working on projects or within organizations related to the Department of Defense (DOD).

Growth Opportunities
  • Accelerated Leadership Trajectory: Rapid advancement to lead software and AI teams.
  • Strategic Influence: Shape technical direction, product roadmaps, and technology choices.
  • High-Impact Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as a core technical interface with customers, vendors, and investors.

Why Join Us?
  • Be a foundational member of a rapidly growing startup in a high-impact industry.
  • Opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing robotics.
  • Work on cutting-edge hardware that will be deployed in real-world applications.
  • A culture of innovation, collaboration, and rapid iteration.
  • Competitive salary, generous equity, and benefits.

The base salary range for this full-time position in the location of San Francisco is:
$150,000-$250,000 USD
Compensation packages at Foundry Robotics for eligible roles include base salary, equity, and benefits. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position, determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, interview performance, and relevant education or training. Foundry Robotics employees in eligible roles are also granted equity based compensation, subject to Board of Director approval. You'll also receive benefits including, but not limited to: Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage, and generous PTO.