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Robotics Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Molg

Robotics Manufacturing Technician

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22/hr

Using robotics, computational design, and AI, our systems turn today's e-waste into resilient, data-driven supply chains--and change how electronics are made in the first place. IN THIS ROLE YOU WILL:

MOLG Inc.

Senior Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA

$103K - $142K/yr

Building core CAD to robotic motion and grasp planning workflow software (i.e. assembly intelligence) * Developing and expanding advance simulation and motion planning capabilities * Collaborating ...

MOLG Inc.

Junior Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Contributing to core CAD to robotic motion and grasp planning workflow software (i.e. assembly intelligence) * Delivering simulations and scenarios related to customer demonstrations and deployments

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Robotics Design information

See Washington salary details

$95.1K

$108.7K

$131.9K

How much do robotics design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics design in Washington is $108,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,900.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics design is an active and evolving field with ongoing advancements in automation, AI integration, and sensor technologies. Demand for robotics engineers remains strong across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, requiring skills in programming, mechanical design, and control systems.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior robotics engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced degrees can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace or defense. Achieving this level often requires leadership roles, stock options, or bonuses in addition to base pay.

What does a robotics designer do?

A robotics designer develops and creates robotic systems and components, focusing on functionality, efficiency, and safety. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and programming skills to design robots for various applications, often collaborating with engineers and technicians throughout the development process.

What is robotics design?

Robotics design is the process of creating, developing, and refining robots for various applications, from industrial automation to healthcare or consumer use. It involves multiple disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence. Robotics designers work on everything from the robot's physical structure and movement mechanisms to its sensors, control systems, and programming. The goal is to develop robots that can perform specific tasks efficiently and safely, often solving complex problems or automating repetitive jobs.

What is the difference between Robotics Design vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectRobotics DesignMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; certifications in CAD or roboticsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, robotics development centers, collaborative teamsManufacturing plants, research labs, design offices
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, research institutionsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design

Robotics Design focuses on creating robotic systems, integrating sensors, actuators, and control algorithms. Mechanical Engineering covers a broader scope of designing mechanical components and systems. While both roles require engineering fundamentals, Robotics Design emphasizes robotics-specific skills, whereas Mechanical Engineering offers a wider application base across industries.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Robotics Design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Robotics Design often encounter challenges such as integrating hardware and software components, ensuring systems reliability, and keeping up with rapidly advancing technologies. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers—is key to overcoming these hurdles. Staying engaged in continuous learning, prototyping early, and leveraging simulation tools can help address technical obstacles and deliver innovative solutions efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Designer, you need a solid grounding in mechanical engineering, electronics, and programming, typically supported by a degree in robotics, mechatronics, or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software, microcontroller programming (such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi), and simulation tools is essential, and certifications like Certified Robotics Programmer can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to developing innovative, functional robotic systems that meet complex technical requirements and client needs.

Is robotics a high paying job?

Robotics design is generally considered a high-paying field within engineering, with salaries often exceeding those of many other technical roles. Factors such as education level, experience, and specialized skills in programming, control systems, and CAD tools influence earning potential.
What are popular job titles related to Robotics Design jobs in Washington? For Robotics Design jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Design jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Design jobs in Washington are:
Robotics Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Design job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,729 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
2027 PhD Graduate - Subsea Robotics Engineer

2027 PhD Graduate - Subsea Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$105K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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 59 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 [email protected].
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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