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Robot Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

Experience using Robotic Operating System (ROS) or its equivalent * Active Security Clearance * Experience in Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus * Experience in advanced ...

Metron Inc.

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... using Robotic Operating System (ROS) or its equivalent • Active Security Clearance • Experience in Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus • Experience in advanced ...

Metron Inc.

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

... using Robotic Operating System (ROS) or its equivalent • Active Security Clearance • Experience in Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus • Experience in advanced ...

Molg

Robotics Manufacturing Technician

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22/hr

Assembling and test robotic microfactory systems following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). * Develop habits around tool, material, and workstation organization for safe and efficient ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Experience using Robotic Operating System (ROS) or its equivalent * Active Security Clearance * Experience in Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus * Experience in advanced ...

Metron, Inc

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Experience using Robotic Operating System (ROS) or its equivalent * Active Security Clearance * Experience in Probability/Statistics, Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus * Experience in advanced ...

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All JobsRobot Operator JobsRobot Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Robot Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

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$28

How much do robot operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for robot operator in Washington, DC is $21.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do robot operators make?

Robot operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators who work with advanced automation systems or in specialized manufacturing environments may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robot operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robot Operator, you need a solid understanding of robotics, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by a technical diploma or equivalent experience. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotic control panels, and industrial automation software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of robotic equipment in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by robot operators in a manufacturing setting?

Robot Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected malfunctions, adapting to new automation technology, and ensuring consistent quality control during production runs. They must be proactive in identifying and resolving issues quickly to minimize downtime. Additionally, effective communication with maintenance teams and engineers is essential, as Robot Operators frequently collaborate to optimize workflows and implement process improvements.

What does a robot operator do?

The responsibilities of a robot operator involve the setup, operation, and maintenance of a machine. Duties include entering preprogrammed instructions that a robot uses to manufacture a product or component. These setup procedures ensure that a robot produces products to exact specifications. The operator may also inspect the output from the machine to ensure quality and make adjustments during a production run if necessary. A robot operator may install different components depending on the specifications for each production run. Qualifications vary, but manufacturers often provide apprenticeship or on-the-job learning opportunities for promising candidates.

What is a robot operator?

A Robot Operator is a professional responsible for overseeing the functioning, maintenance, and operation of robots in industrial or manufacturing settings. They ensure that robots are set up properly, monitor their performance, and troubleshoot technical issues as they arise. Robot Operators also perform routine maintenance, make adjustments to robotic systems, and often work closely with engineers to optimize automated processes. This role is vital in industries where automation and robotics are used to improve efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Robot Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectRobot OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in robotics or automationRequires general manufacturing or equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in automated or robotic systems within manufacturing or industrial settingsOperates various machinery in factories or production lines
Industry UsageCommon in industries with automation, such as electronics, automotive, and manufacturingFound across diverse manufacturing sectors
Job FocusMonitoring, programming, and maintaining robotic systemsOperating and controlling machinery for production

While both roles involve working with equipment in manufacturing environments, Robot Operators focus on automated robotic systems, requiring specialized technical skills. Machine Operators handle manual or semi-automated machinery, emphasizing operational skills. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

Is it hard to get a robot operator job?

Getting a robot operator job can vary depending on experience, technical skills, and certifications. Many positions require knowledge of automation systems, safety procedures, and sometimes prior experience with specific machinery or software. Entry-level roles may be accessible with relevant training, but advanced positions often demand specialized skills and experience.
More about Robot Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Robot Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

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For Robot Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robot Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Robot Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Robot Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robot Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,867 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

NIST PREP Engineering Technician in Robotic Perception

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Intelligent Systems Division at NIST is investigating the performance of 3D machine vision systems for various manufacturing applications. The research will focus on conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand these systems' performance and support the development of standards for measuring their depth error and depth resolution, as well as for measuring the performance of robotic systems used for bin-picking applications.
Duties:The duties will be tailored to fit the applicant's qualifications and the applicant will be trained on the use of certain systems needed for the following possible duties:
  • Programming and maintaining robots (arms, mobile robots, exoskeletons, etc.).
  • Operating and maintaining measurement equipment (e.g., laser trackers, laser scanners, oscilloscopes, etc.).
  • Preparing and maintaining laboratories to support experiments.
  • Conducting experiments in support of the development of standards.
  • Assisting in recording and analyzing test data and preparing test reports.
  • Performing simple preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, adjustment, and repairs of laboratory equipment.
  • Keeping laboratories clean and organized.
  • Assisting in performing market research for purchases required for the laboratories.
  • Using CAD software to design parts, end-of-arm tooling, and fixtures.
  • Working with NIST and/or external resources to have parts fabricated.
  • Recording knowledge and best practices to help improve efficiency and productivity.
  • Conducting tests in the laboratory as well as in the field.

Qualifications:Not all the qualifications below are required.
  • Associate or bachelor's degree in physical sciences, engineering or related field (or a training certificate in robotics, engineering, or automation).
  • Experience using gauge blocks and/or micrometers.
  • A basic understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Experience in using digital oscilloscopes, multimeters, and environmental monitoring instruments (thermometers, hygrometers, etc.).
  • Experience with CAD software such as Solidworks.
  • Experience in programming robots (using a teach pendant, hand guidance, and a command line interface).
  • Experience using basic hand and power tools.
  • Experience using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers.
  • Experience in operating in laboratory environments in a safe manner.
  • Be able to work without close supervision in a team environment.
  • Experience in using software tools such as Matlab, Python, Excel (or other) to analyze data.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience in using dimensional measurement instruments (such as laser trackers, laser scanners, coordinate measurement machines, etc.).
  • Experience in using Python, C++, C#, JAVA, etc. for programming/controlling robots.
  • Experience in using the robot operating system (ROS) to program robots.
  • Experience in using simulation software (e.g., MoveIT, RoboDK, etc.) to program robots.
  • Experience with basic machine tools (e.g., drill press, band saw, lathe, etc.).
  • Experience with programming and using CNC milling machines.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0003540

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