1

Robotic Imitation Learning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$72K - $92K/yr

Research large-scale VLAs and other multimodal behavior models that connect perception, language, reasoning, and continuous robot action. * Develop imitation-learning and reinforcement-learning ...

Senior Research Scientist - Manipulation

Boston, MA · On-site

$107K - $136K/yr

Research large-scale VLAs and other multimodal behavior models that connect perception, language, reasoning, and continuous robot action. * Develop imitation-learning and reinforcement-learning ...

Showing results 21-40

Robotic Imitation Learning information

See salary details

$15

$28

$45

How much do robotic imitation learning jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for robotic imitation learning in the United States is $28.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is robotic imitation learning?

Robotic imitation learning is a technique in robotics where robots learn to perform tasks by observing and mimicking human actions or demonstrations. Instead of being explicitly programmed, the robot uses data from demonstrations to infer the necessary actions or behaviors. This approach can help robots learn complex tasks more efficiently and adapt to new situations by leveraging human expertise. It is widely used in areas such as manufacturing, service robotics, and autonomous vehicles.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on robotic imitation learning projects, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in robotic imitation learning often encounter challenges such as collecting high-quality demonstration data, ensuring generalization across varied tasks, and managing the sim-to-real gap when transferring learned behaviors from simulation to physical robots. Addressing these challenges typically involves developing robust data collection pipelines, leveraging domain adaptation techniques, and collaborating closely with hardware engineers to fine-tune models in real-world environments. Teamwork with researchers specializing in computer vision, reinforcement learning, and robotics hardware is crucial for overcoming these hurdles and achieving reliable robot performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in robotic imitation learning, and why are they important?

To thrive in Robotic Imitation Learning, you need a strong background in robotics, machine learning, and computer science, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++, machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and robotics simulation tools such as ROS or Gazebo is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for developing innovative solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are important to advance the field, ensure robust algorithm development, and enable efficient deployment of robotic systems in real-world environments.

What is the difference between Robotic Imitation Learning vs Robotic Software Engineer?

AspectRobotic Imitation LearningRobotic Software Engineer
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in AI, Robotics, or Computer ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, AI development teams, robotics startupsIndustrial, research, or manufacturing settings involving robotics software development
Industry UsageDeveloping algorithms for robots to learn behaviors through imitationDesigning, coding, and maintaining robotic control software

Robotic Imitation Learning focuses on creating algorithms that enable robots to learn behaviors by mimicking demonstrations, often requiring expertise in AI and machine learning. In contrast, a Robotic Software Engineer develops and maintains the software systems that control robots, emphasizing programming skills and software development. Both roles are essential in robotics but serve different functions within the industry.

What other helpful pages are available for Robotic Imitation Learning?

Other pages related to Robotic Imitation Learning:

Infographic showing various Robotic Imitation Learning job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,744 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Staff Robotics Engineer / Tech Lead - Whole-Body Control & Robot Learning

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

XPENG is a leading smart technology company at the forefront of innovation, integrating advanced AI and autonomous driving technologies into its vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and robotics. With a strong focus on intelligent mobility, XPENG is dedicated to reshaping the future of transportation through cutting-edge R&D in AI, machine learning, and smart connectivity.
We are now expanding into the development of general-purpose humanoid robots aimed at automating repetitive tasks and assisting people in their daily lives.
We are seeking a highly motivated Staff Robotics Engineer / Tech Lead to join our US robotics team. This role is ideal for a strong hands-on engineer who can contribute deeply to humanoid robot control, whole-body motion generation, robot learning, and sim-to-real deployment, while helping coordinate technical direction and mentor a small team. The ideal candidate brings strong engineering judgment, clear communication, and the ability to help other engineers move faster and make better technical decisions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop control and learning-based algorithms forhumanoid robot locomotion, whole-body control, motion generation, and sim-to-real transfer.
  • Contribute to the technical direction of the robotics team by identifying key problems, proposing practical solutions, and helping prioritize engineering efforts.
  • Work with simulation, software, hardware, AI, data, and China-based engineering teams to translate robot performance goals into executable plans.
  • Mentor other engineers through design reviews, code reviews, experiments, and technical discussions.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Master's or Ph.D. degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience inreinforcement learning, robotics, robot learning, control systems, or related areas.
  • Strong background in robot dynamics, control, motion planning, reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or whole-body control.
  • Familiarity with modern robot learning methods such as PPO, SAC, behavior cloning, diffusion policies, imitation learning, etc.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work across disciplines, locations, and organizational boundaries.
  • Strong ownership mindset and ability to operate effectively in a fast-moving, ambiguous, research-to-product environment.
Preferred Requirements:
  • Publications or strong project experience in robotics, reinforcement learning, legged locomotion, humanoid control, or embodied AI are a plus.
  • Experience technically leading projects or mentoring other engineers.
  • Hands-on experience with legged robot control, testing, or operation.

What do we provide:
  • A supportive, engaging environment with opportunities to make a significant impact on the future of robotics.
  • Opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies with top talent in the field.
  • Competitive compensation, equity, benefits.
  • Lunches, snacks, and team activities.

The base salary range for this full-time position is $215,280-$364,320, in addition to bonus, equity and benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status or marital status or any other prescribed category set forth in federal or state regulations.