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Robot Programmer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Do you enjoy combining robotics, dynamics, controls, and software engineering to solve complex mission problems? If so, the Maritime Robotics Group (KMM) is looking for an early-career Subsea ...

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As a Maritime Robotics Systems Engineer you will... * Perform systems engineering in development of new systems featuring advanced software and sensing capabilities. Tasks will include developing ...

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Autonomous Robotics Software Engineer (Robotics / Autonomy / C++) Advanced Robotics Group, LLC is seeking highly skilled Autonomous Robotics Software Engineers to join a small, high-performing team ...

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Robot Programmer information

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$16

$35

$51

How much do robot programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for robot programmer in Maryland is $35.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.62 and $41.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a robot programmer do?

A Robot Programmer is responsible for creating, testing, and implementing the software that controls industrial and commercial robots. They write code to instruct robots on tasks such as assembly, welding, painting, or material handling. Robot Programmers work closely with engineers and production teams to ensure robots operate efficiently and safely within manufacturing environments. Their work often involves troubleshooting, optimizing existing programs, and integrating new robotic systems into workflows.

What does a robot programmer do?

The job duties of a robot programmer include working to write, test, and modify programs that direct the actions of robotic equipment. As a robot programmer, your responsibilities typically consist of using robotic software to create directions for manufacturing or industrial applications. You analyze drawings, blueprints, and manufacturing or assembly requirements before programming the equipment. You may also need to physically set up and place the robot in the workspace, test your program before beginning work, and monitor progress to ensure quality during the production run or another process.

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

To thrive as a Robot Programmer, you need strong programming skills (such as in Python, C++, or proprietary robot languages), a solid understanding of robotics engineering, and typically a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with robotic control systems, industrial automation software (like ROS or PLCs), and relevant certifications are often required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for optimizing robotic performance and collaborating with engineering teams. These skills ensure the development, integration, and maintenance of efficient, reliable robotic systems in various industrial applications.

What are some common challenges robot programmers face when integrating new robots into existing manufacturing systems?

Robot Programmers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new robots and legacy equipment, optimizing robot paths for efficiency, and minimizing downtime during integration. Coordinating closely with engineers, operators, and IT specialists is essential to address communication protocols, safety requirements, and production schedules. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and troubleshooting unexpected issues are also key aspects of the role, making strong problem-solving skills and teamwork crucial for success.

What is the difference between Robot Programmer vs Robot Technician?

AspectRobot ProgrammerRobot Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in robotics, engineering, or computer scienceOften requires technical diploma or associate degree in robotics or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesigning, coding, and testing robot programs in labs or manufacturing settingsMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing robots on the production floor
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in automation, manufacturing, and robotics developmentCommon in manufacturing plants, assembly lines, and maintenance services

Robot Programmers focus on creating and optimizing robot software, while Robot Technicians handle the installation, maintenance, and repair of robotic systems. Both roles are essential in automation industries but differ in their primary responsibilities and required skills.

How much do robot programmers make?

Robot programmers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in robotics, programming languages, and automation tools can lead to higher salaries and career growth.

Is robot programming a good career?

Robot programming is a growing field that involves developing software to control robotic systems, often requiring knowledge of programming languages like Python or C++ and familiarity with automation tools. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, and research, with a demand for technical skills and problem-solving abilities. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant training and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Robot Programmer jobs in Maryland?

For Robot Programmer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Robot Programmer jobs in MD?

For Robot Programmer jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Robot Programmer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,452 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

2027 PhD Graduate - Subsea Robotics Engineer-Laurel, Maryland

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you excited about developing software that enables autonomous underwater vehicles to operate in challenging real-world environments?
Do you enjoy combining robotics, dynamics, controls, and software engineering to solve complex mission problems? If so, the Maritime Robotics Group (KMM) is looking for an early-career Subsea Robotics Engineer to join our Modeling and Control team.
Our mission is to develop, integrate, test, and deploy advanced robotic capabilities that provide our nation with an advantage in autonomous maritime systems. We build software that enables autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles to navigate, maneuver, interact with their environment, and accomplish challenging operational missions. Our work spans simulation, controls, autonomy, system integration, laboratory testing, and at-sea experimentation, with an emphasis on delivering robust capabilities that transition to operational systems.
As a member of our team, you will work closely with robotics, software, mechanical, electrical, and ocean engineers to develop and deploy advanced underwater robotic systems.
As a member of our team, you will:
  • Develop robotics software for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and other subsea robotic systems using ROS 2.
  • Design, implement, and maintain modular software in C++ and Python on Linux-based systems.
  • Develop and integrate dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, and autonomy algorithms for underwater robotic platforms.
  • Build high-fidelity simulation environments and modeling tools to support software development, system integration, and mission planning.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and vehicle subsystems into robust robotic software architectures.
  • Evaluate vehicle performance through simulation, laboratory testing, and field experiments, using collected data to improve system performance.
  • Support integration and testing of robotic systems in laboratory, pool, and at-sea environments.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to transition software from development into operational robotic systems.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:
  • Have a Ph.D. in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Have experience developing robotic software using ROS 2.
  • Have experience developing software on Linux.
  • Are proficient in Python and C++.
  • Have experience developing, implementing, or testing dynamic systems, feedback control algorithms, robotic simulation, or autonomous systems through coursework, research projects, internships, or professional experience.
  • Have familiarity with software engineering best practices, including Git-based version control, debugging, testing, and documentation.
  • Enjoy working in multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging engineering problems.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have experience developing dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, or autonomy software for robotic systems.
  • Have experience modeling and simulating robotic or autonomous systems using Gazebo, Ignition, Stonefish, Isaac Sim, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar tools.
  • Have experience integrating robotic sensors such as IMUs, DVLs, sonars, cameras, pressure sensors, or manipulators.
  • Have experience with state estimation, system identification, trajectory generation, optimization, or motion planning.
  • Have experience with containerized software development, continuous integration, or modern DevSecOps workflows.
  • Have participated in field testing, vehicle integration, or deployment of robotic systems.
  • Have demonstrated initiative in developing new technical capabilities or leading engineering efforts.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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