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Robot Perception Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Forterra

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... robot perception • Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming Company : Forterra delivers autonomous mission systems for defense. Founded in 2002, the company is ...

Forterra

Senior Payloads Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $200/hr

Knowledge of navigation, mapping algorithms and robot perception * Familiarity with real‑time operating systems and embedded programming * Leadership experience on cross‑functional software teams ...

Forterra

Lead Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Knowledge of navigation, mapping algorithms and robot perception * Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming * Leadership experience on cross-functional software teams US ...

Forterra

Autonomy Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Knowledge of navigation, mapping algorithms and robot perception * Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming US Salary Range $120,000-$165,000 The salary range for this ...

Forterra

Senior Payloads Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Knowledge of navigation, mapping algorithms and robot perception * Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming * Leadership experience on cross-functional software teams US ...

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All JobsRobot Perception JobsRobot Perception Jobs in Reston, VA

Robot Perception information

See Reston, VA salary details

$16

$29

$47

How much do robot perception jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for robot perception in Reston, VA is $29.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $34.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is robot perception?

Robot perception refers to the ability of robots to interpret and understand their environment using sensors and algorithms. This field involves processing data from cameras, lidar, radar, and other sensors to recognize objects, map surroundings, and make decisions. Effective robot perception is essential for tasks like navigation, object manipulation, and autonomous operation in dynamic environments. It combines elements of computer vision, machine learning, and sensor fusion to enable robots to function reliably and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a robot perception role, and why are they important?

To excel in Robot Perception, you need a strong background in computer vision, machine learning, and sensor data processing, typically backed by a degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like ROS (Robot Operating System), OpenCV, PCL, and deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, as well as experience with LiDAR and camera systems, is highly valued. Creative problem-solving, adaptability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for addressing complex perception challenges in dynamic environments. These competencies enable the development of robust perception systems, which are essential for safe and autonomous robotic operation.

What is the difference between Robot Perception vs Robot Software Engineer?

AspectRobot PerceptionRobot Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Robotics, Computer Science, or related fields; knowledge of perception algorithmsBachelor's or Master's in Software Engineering, Computer Science; programming skills in C++, Python
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, robotics companies, industrial settings focusing on sensor data processingSoftware development teams, robotics companies, embedded systems environments
Industry UsageUsed in autonomous vehicles, service robots, industrial automation for sensor data interpretationDevelops robot control software, integrates perception modules, and ensures system functionality

Robot Perception specialists focus on processing sensor data to enable robots to understand their environment, while Robot Software Engineers develop the software systems that control robot functions, including perception modules. Both roles often collaborate but have distinct focuses within robotics development.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in robot perception roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Robot Perception roles often encounter challenges such as dealing with noisy sensor data, ensuring real-time processing, and integrating data from multiple sources to create an accurate understanding of the environment. Addressing these requires strong skills in sensor fusion, robust algorithm design, and close collaboration with robotics engineers and software developers. Continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in machine learning and computer vision are also key to overcoming these challenges and contributing effectively to the team's goals.
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Robot Perception jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Robot Perception job openings:
Robot Perception jobs near you

Autonomy Software Engineer

Forterra

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary:
Forterra is a company focused on unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. They are seeking an Autonomy Software Engineer to design, develop, and field software solutions that enable intelligent behavior in robotics and automation technologies.
Responsibilities:
• Integrate and deploy our autonomy stack on customer-bound hardware platforms and validate it in real-world conditions.
• Work across the organization and directly with end-users to deliver new behaviors, payload integrations, and emerging mission use-cases.
• Take a holistic view of autonomous vehicle behavior—how sensing, compute, controls, and other subsystems interact—and drive overall performance improvements.
• Analyze test results, identify issues and root causes, and collaborate with engineering teams to drive problems to resolution
• Detect performance shortfalls, shape solution approaches, and implement enhancements in partnership with cross-functional teams.
• Partner across business development and engineering teams to translate customer requirements into delivered autonomy capabilities.
• Travel ranging from 10-25% and 25-50% depending on candidate preference and role placement.
Qualifications:
Required:
• B.S. in computer science, engineering, robotics, or related field or relevant experience/show of skill
• Experience in integrating software on hardware products
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C++, Python, or Java
• Solid core software engineering skills: software design, unit testing, debugging
• Ability to consistently deliver production-quality software in a continuously integrated environment
• Strong understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles
• Demonstrates clean, maintainable code and documentation practices
Preferred:
• Experience in software development for robotics and autonomous systems
• Experience with ROS2
• Experience with state machines and motion / path planning
• Knowledge of navigation, mapping algorithms and robot perception
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems and embedded programming
Company:
Forterra delivers autonomous mission systems for defense. Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Clarksburg, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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