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Robotic Motion Planning Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA

Senior Motion Planning Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$172K - $229K/yr

On our Motion Planning team, you'll apply your passion in robotics and software development for ... PhD preferred in Robotics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a ...

New

... specializes in motion planning and control for high-performance, contact-seeking robotic ... programming in a modern language such as Java, C++, or C#, with a strong foundation in object ...

New

... specializes in motion planning and control for high-performance, contact-seeking robotic ... programming in a modern language such as Java, C++, or C#, with a strong foundation in object ...

New

... specializes in motion planning and control for high-performance, contact-seeking robotic ... programming in a modern language such as Java, C++, or C#, with a strong foundation in object ...

... specializes in motion planning and control for high-performance, contact-seeking robotic ... programming in a modern language such as Java, C++, or C#, with a strong foundation in object ...

... motion planning, sim-to-real transfer robotic control, manipulation, navigation, or generally ... Demonstrated research and software engineering experience via an internship, work experience ...

... motion planning, sim-to-real transfer robotic control, manipulation, navigation, or generally embodied AI * Demonstrated research and software engineering experience via an internship, work ...

Java Software Engineer

Medina, WA · On-site

$58 - $79.75/hr

Java Software Engineer - Onsite in Seattle, WA We are seeking an experienced Java Software ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

Java Software Engineer

Medina, WA · On-site

$58 - $79.75/hr

Java Software Engineer - Onsite in Seattle, WA We are seeking an experienced Java Software ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

Java Software Engineers

Medina, WA · On-site

$58 - $79.75/hr

We are seeking an experienced Java Software Engineers to support the enhancement of a fleet of ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

New

Java Software Engineers

Medina, WA · On-site

$58 - $79.75/hr

We are seeking an experienced Java Software Engineers to support the enhancement of a fleet of ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

New

Full Stack Java Developer

Medina, WA · On-site

$59 - $76/hr

We are seeking an experienced Java Software Engineers to support the enhancement of a fleet of ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

New

Full Stack Java Developer

Medina, WA · On-site

$59 - $76/hr

We are seeking an experienced Java Software Engineers to support the enhancement of a fleet of ... Expertise in robotics algorithms, particularly in control, perception, and motion planning.

New

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Showing results 1-20

Robotic Motion Planning Engineer information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$32.4K

$118.1K

$188.9K

How much do robotic motion planning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotic motion planning engineer in Bothell, WA is $118,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $142,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a robotic motion planning engineer do?

A Robotic Motion Planning Engineer is responsible for designing algorithms that enable robots to move efficiently and safely within their environment. This involves creating paths or trajectories for robots to follow while avoiding obstacles and optimizing for speed, energy, or other factors. They use knowledge from robotics, computer science, and mathematics to develop software that allows robots to perform complex tasks autonomously. These engineers often work with sensors, simulation software, and real-world robotic systems to test and refine their motion planning solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotic motion planning engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotic Motion Planning Engineer, you need a solid background in robotics, computer science, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with tools such as ROS (Robot Operating System), Python/C++, and simulation platforms like Gazebo, as well as experience with motion planning algorithms, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork skills set candidates apart in this field. These skills are crucial for developing reliable, efficient, and safe robotic systems that can operate in complex real-world environments.

What are some common challenges faced by robotic motion planning engineers when working on real-world robot deployment?

Robotic Motion Planning Engineers often encounter challenges translating simulation results to real-world environments due to factors like sensor noise, hardware limitations, and unpredictable obstacles. Ensuring that planned paths are both efficient and safe in dynamic settings requires close collaboration with hardware engineers and field testing teams. Additionally, balancing computational efficiency and motion accuracy, especially for complex robots or crowded spaces, is a frequent hurdle. Overcoming these issues typically involves iterative tuning, robust software development, and interdisciplinary teamwork.

What is the difference between Robotic Motion Planning Engineer vs Robotic Software Engineer?

AspectRobotic Motion Planning EngineerRobotic Software Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping algorithms for robot path planning and navigationDesigning and implementing software for robotic systems
Required SkillsRobotics algorithms, motion planning, C++, PythonSoftware development, robotics frameworks, C++, Python
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, robotics companies, industrial automationRobotics companies, tech firms, automation industries
Common CertificationsRobotics certifications, programming certifications

Robotic Motion Planning Engineers focus on creating algorithms for robot navigation, while Robotic Software Engineers develop broader software solutions for robotic systems. Both roles require programming skills and often overlap in work environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and specialization.

Are robotic motion planning engineers in high demand?

Robotic motion planning engineers are in high demand due to the growth of automation, robotics, and AI across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Their expertise in algorithms, kinematics, and programming tools like ROS and MATLAB makes them valuable as companies seek to develop advanced robotic systems and autonomous vehicles.

Do robotic motion planning engineers get paid well?

Robotic motion planning engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in robotics, algorithms, and programming. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and industry, but they are generally above average compared to many engineering roles. Advanced knowledge of robotics frameworks and tools can also influence compensation levels.

What are popular job titles related to Robotic Motion Planning Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA?

For Robotic Motion Planning Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robotic Motion Planning Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Robotic Motion Planning Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA are:

Infographic showing various Robotic Motion Planning Engineer job openings in Bothell, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,054 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Senior Motion Planning Engineer

Motional

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

$172K - $229K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Mission Summary:
On our Motion Planning team, you'll apply your passion in robotics and software development for production-ready autonomous vehicles. In this role you'll perform cutting-edge research, develop advanced algorithms, and build robust software to generate safe, comfortable, and intuitive routes and motions.

Role responsibilities:

  • Lead the research and development of novel algorithms for motion planning in autonomous driving, including but not limited to advanced search-based methods, sophisticated geometry-based methods, and decision making under uncertainty with a strong emphasis on probabilistic approaches.
  • Architect and integrate complex combinations of motion planning and prediction algorithms, driving their evaluation and refinement for real-world deployment.
  • Design and build a robust, scalable, and high-performance codebase that facilitates rapid exploration, prototyping, and rigorous evaluation of innovative motion planning approaches and algorithms.
  • Drive technical collaboration and interface seamlessly with perception and prediction components upstream and trajectory optimization, tracking and control components downstream, ensuring end-to-end system performance.
  • Leverage your deep software development and research expertise to teach others better software practices and principles, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
  • Guide and mentor junior team members, cultivating a culture of product-focused engineering, rigorous research, and advanced development.

What we're looking for:

  • PhD preferred in Robotics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; or a Master's degree with 2+ years of experience in the robotics (preferably AV industry)
  • 5+ years of research experience in robotics / motion planning, with a proven track record of contributing to state-of-the-art solutions
  • 3+ years of C++ software development, with an emphasis on developing high-performance and reliable systems
  • Past experience owning and leading technical development on complex features from problem formulation through research, implementation, and deployment in a production environment.
  • Thirst for knowledge, continuous innovation, and a drive to push the boundaries of autonomous driving technology.

Bonus points(not required):

  • Experience with probabilistic models, including but not limited to Gaussian mixture models, Hidden Markov Models, and Particle Filters.
  • Experience with Bayesian modeling and inference techniques for decision making under uncertainty.
  • Experience with the Bazel build framework

We encourage a hybrid schedule with in-office time at one of our locations in Boston, Pittsburgh, or Las Vegas to support collaboration, or this role can be fully remote.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors including but not limited to specific skills, experience and expertise, role location, certifications, licenses, and business needs. The estimated compensation range listed in this job posting reflects base salary only. This role may include additional forms of compensation such as a bonus or company equity. The recruiter assigned to this role can share more information about the specific compensation and benefit details associated with this role during the hiring process. 

Candidates for certain positions are eligible to participate in Motional's benefits program. Motional's benefits include but are not limited to medical, dental, vision, 401k with a company match, health saving accounts, life insurance, pet insurance, and more.

Salary Range
$172,000—$229,000 USD

Motional is a driverless technology company making autonomous vehicles a safe, reliable, and accessible reality. We're driven by something more.

Our journey is always people first.

We aren't just developing driverless cars; we're creating safer roadways, more equitable transportation options, and making our communities better places to live, work, and connect. Our team is made up of engineers, researchers, innovators, dreamers and doers, who are creating a technology with the potential to transform the way we move.

Higher purpose, greater impact.

We're creating first-of-its-kind technology that will transform transportation. To do so successfully, we must design for everyone in our cities and on our roads. We believe in building a great place to work through a progressive, global culture that is diverse, inclusive, and ensures people feel valued at every level of the organization. Diversity helps us to see the world differently; it's not only good for our business, it's the right thing to do.  

Scale up, not starting up.

Our team is behind some of the industry's largest leaps forward, including the first fully-autonomous cross-country drive in the U.S, the launch of the world's first robotaxi pilot, and operation of the world's longest-standing public robotaxi fleet. We're driven to scale; we're moving towards commercialization of our technology, and we need team members who are ready to embrace change and challenges.

Formed as a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and Aptiv, Motional is fundamentally changing how people move through their lives. Headquartered in Boston, Motional has operations in the U.S and Asia. For more information, visit  www.Motional.com and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

Motional AD Inc. is an EOE. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. To comply with Federal Law, we participate in E-Verify. All newly-hired employees are queried through this electronic system established by the DHS and the SSA to verify their identity and employment eligibility.