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Robotics Design Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

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All JobsRobotics Design Engineer JobsRobotics Design Engineer Jobs in Washington

Robotics Design Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$32.8K

$119.6K

$191.4K

How much do robotics design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics design engineer in Washington is $119,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,600.00 and $143,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Robotics Design Engineer do?

A Robotics Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing robotic systems and components. They use principles from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to create robots that can perform specific tasks or functions. Their work involves creating blueprints, modeling designs, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the robots meet performance and safety standards. Robotics Design Engineers also troubleshoot and refine prototypes, ensuring their reliability and efficiency before deployment. This role is crucial in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and automation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Robotics Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotics Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, usually with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency in CAD software, programming languages like Python or C++, and experience with robotics platforms such as ROS are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure the effective design, integration, and troubleshooting of advanced robotic systems for diverse applications.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics Design Engineers are in demand as automation and AI continue to advance across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. The field requires skills in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, with ongoing innovation ensuring its relevance and growth. Robotics remains a dynamic and evolving area with strong employment prospects.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior robotics design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD, control systems, and programming, and often working in specialized industries or leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such compensation typically includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in high-tech or startup environments.

What is the difference between Robotics Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRobotics Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; often certifications in robotics or automationBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineering license (PE) optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, robotics development facilities, manufacturing settingsManufacturing plants, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, research institutionsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design
Common Search/ComparisonRobotics Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer

Robotics Design Engineers focus on creating robotic systems, integrating sensors, actuators, and control systems, often requiring knowledge of electronics and programming. Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical components and systems, with a broader scope across various industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Robotics Design Engineers typically have specialized skills in robotics and automation, making them distinct yet overlapping with Mechanical Engineers in certain projects.

What does a robot designer engineer do in their job?

A robotics design engineer develops and creates robotic systems and components, focusing on functionality, efficiency, and safety. They use CAD software, programming skills, and engineering principles to design robots for various applications, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and testing prototypes to ensure performance standards are met.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior robotics design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD, control systems, and programming, and often working in specialized industries or leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation typically involves seniority, complex projects, or managerial responsibilities within engineering firms or technology companies.

What are some common challenges faced by Robotics Design Engineers when transitioning prototypes to mass production?

Robotics Design Engineers often encounter challenges when moving from prototype development to mass production, such as ensuring component reliability, optimizing designs for manufacturability, and maintaining cost efficiency without sacrificing performance. They must collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to refine product designs, address supply chain constraints, and ensure that regulatory standards are met. Effective communication and iterative testing are essential to identify and resolve issues early, facilitating a smoother transition to large-scale manufacturing.
What are popular job titles related to Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Washington? For Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Robotics Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Robotics Design Engineer job openings:
Robotics Design Engineer jobs near you
Maritime Robotics Systems Engineer-Laurel,Maryland

Maritime Robotics Systems Engineer-Laurel,Maryland

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Glen Echo, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 57 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you have a passion for maritime robotics, autonomy, and AI?
Do you like to take ownership of technical problems, seek creative solutions, and thrive in a fast-paced team environment?
Are you looking to take on new and exciting challenges and lead collaborative teams?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a Maritime Autonomous Systems Engineer to help the US Navy prototype and adopt new maritime robotics technologies for uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs), uncrewed undersea vehicles (UUVs), and other robotic vehicles. In this role, you will have a direct impact on the Navy's biggest challenges as you apply your systems engineering, test, and team leadership skills to achieve the goals of APL prototype projects and modernize our sponsors' acquisition approach for autonomous systems. You will be joining a highly creative, adaptable, and success-driven group, where you will help us build on APL's legacy of scientific research and development and trusted service to the nation.
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 design reference missions, requirements, and measures of performance; architecture design, performance analysis; and test design and coordination.
  • Choose how best to apply systems engineering best practices to autonomy, AI, and uncrewed vehicles, ranging from early prototypes to production by the Navy and other sponsors. Employ Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Digital Engineering practices, tailored to support prototyping projects and their transition to acquisition.
  • Lead and mentor multidisciplinary technical teams at APL who are performing design trade studies, requirements analysis, mission modeling, and prototyping of software and hardware for maritime uncrewed systems.
  • Oversee the design, integration, and testing of autonomous and remotely operated maritime vehicles and autonomous control software.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on maritime robotics technologies, providing guidance on best practices and emerging trends.
  • Collaborate with the US Navy and other sponsors as well as their performers within the Government and Industry.
  • Plan, organize, and lead technical reviews including the development of technical products and briefings.
  • Design, coordinate, and execute testing of autonomous systems through software-in-the-loop Modeling and Simulation and in-water test.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelors in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field.
  • Have 4+ years of relevant Systems Engineering experience related to US Navy or DOD platforms.
  • Have experience developing and integrating uncrewed vehicles, autonomy software, and/or maritime systems.
  • Have experience building and leading technical engineering teams through studies, requirements development, system design, prototyping, integration, and test.
  • Have experience working with the US Navy or other government sponsors in a DOD research and development and/or acquisition environment.
  • Possess outstanding organization and planning skills, social skills, and written and oral communications skills.
  • Are willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have an M.S. or Ph.D. in Engineering or a related technical field.
  • Have experience designing, integrating, and testing of software, sensors, payloads, and vehicle control systems for maritime platforms.
  • Have applied your Systems Engineering and Test & Evaluation skills for the prototyping of US Navy USV, UUVs, or other US Navy uncrewed systems.

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 http://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 Accommodations@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
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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