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Robotics Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

MOLG Inc.

Robot Tester

Sterling, VA

$22/hr

Collaborating with robotics engineers on developing better tests and systems. * Releasing features and improvements into production environments. WHO YOU ARE: * Passionate and curious about robotics ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $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

$18 - $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

$18 - $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 Engineer JobsRobotics Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Robotics Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$32.8K

$119.6K

$191.4K

How much do robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics engineer in Washington, DC 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.

Could a robot believe in God?

Robotics engineers design and build machines that perform tasks based on programming and sensors; robots do not possess consciousness, beliefs, or religious thoughts. Belief in God involves subjective experience and faith, which are beyond current robotic capabilities and artificial intelligence. Therefore, robots cannot genuinely believe in God, as they lack self-awareness and emotional understanding.

What is the robot that helps with autism?

Robotics engineers develop assistive robots designed to support individuals with autism, such as social robots that facilitate communication and social skills. These robots often incorporate sensors, artificial intelligence, and user-friendly interfaces to engage users effectively.

What does a Robotics Engineer do?

A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and tests robots and robotic systems that are able to perform tasks typically done by humans. They work on integrating hardware and software to create machines that can automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Their responsibilities often include researching new technologies, programming robotic systems, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with other engineers. Robotics Engineers play a key role in advancing automation and improving efficiency and safety in various sectors.

What Does a Robotics Engineer Do?

A robotics engineer designs and often builds robots from their plans and ensures the correct processes are in place for the robot to run properly. They work with their clients to determine costs and design specifications, then they design software systems to control robotic systems; build, configure, and test robots; and automate processes to increase production and precision. Once the robotic system is in place, the robotics engineer helps troubleshoot any problems the clients have with the system.

Is robotics a high paying job?

Robotics engineering is generally considered a high-paying profession within engineering fields, with salaries often exceeding those of many other technical roles. Factors such as experience, education, location, and specialized skills like programming and system integration influence earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, typically backed by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++, CAD software, and robotics platforms such as ROS (Robot Operating System) is essential. Problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, building, and refining innovative robotic systems that meet complex technical and user requirements.

What types of projects do Robotics Engineers typically collaborate on with cross-functional teams?

Robotics Engineers often work closely with professionals from software development, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering to design, build, and test robotic systems. Projects can range from automating manufacturing processes to developing autonomous vehicles or medical robots. Collaboration is essential, as engineers must integrate hardware and software components while ensuring systems meet safety and performance standards. Effective communication and teamwork are key to successfully bringing innovative robotics solutions from concept to reality.

What does robotics mean?

Robotics is the field focused on designing, building, and programming robots, which are automated machines capable of performing tasks typically done by humans. Robotics engineers work with sensors, actuators, and control systems to develop these machines for applications in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries.

What is the difference between Robotics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRobotics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or related field; certifications in robotics or automationBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and programming robotic systems in labs or manufacturing settingsDesigning and analyzing mechanical systems in various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, manufacturingManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design

Robotics Engineers focus on designing and developing robotic systems, combining knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Robotics Engineers often need specialized skills in programming and automation. The choice depends on your interest in robotics and automation versus general mechanical system design.

More about Robotics Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Robotics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,608 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer

Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer

MAG Aerospace

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 hours ago

Job description

MAG is staffing for an Embedded Systems & Robotics Engineer who will bridge the critical hardware-software boundary for autonomous tactical systems. You'll modify and enhance systems and solutions that operate independently in GPS-denied environments, from underwater vehicles to aerial swarms, while ensuring reliability in the harshest conditions.

US Citizens Only

Former US Defense Contractor / US Gov / US Military Experience Only  

This is a Hybrid Position - Remote mainly - but as well on call to come into a MAG office when requested. 

We are seeking candidates who live in proximity to our corporate HQ in Fairfax, VA primarily but will entertain persons living near our satellite offices in:

Aberdeen, MD - Titusville, FL - Newport News, VA - Carthage NC


Primary Responsibilities

  • Enhance or augment embedded software for autonomous vehicles (UGV, UAV, UUV, USV) to extend baseline capabilities
  • Implement sensor fusion for autonomous navigation (LIDAR, cameras, IMU, sonar)
  • Design control systems for robotic platforms and actuators
  • Create hardware abstraction layers following MOSA/SOSA standards
  • Develop digital twin simulations for hardware-in-the-loop testing
  • Implement real-time operating systems (RTOS) and safety-critical software
  • Develop and verify safety-critical software in accordance with established standards and best practices
  • Design and fabricate custom hardware solutions using 3D printing and rapid prototyping
  • Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices using SysML/AADL
Secondary Responsibilities
  • Lead field testing and validation of autonomous systems
  • Support deployment and troubleshooting in operational environments
  • Create hardware test fixtures and validation procedures
  • Document MOSA compliance and interface specifications
  • Train operators on system capabilities and limitations

Experience:

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years embedded systems and/or robotics development experience
  • Strong proficiency in C and C++ for real-time for resource-constrained systems
  • Expert proficiency and practical knowledge of Python for scripting, tooling, and rapid prototyping
  • Experience with ROS/ROS2 for robotics development
  • Hands-on experience with autonomous vehicle platforms
  • Proficiency with CAD tools and 3D printing/fabrication
  • Understanding of control theory and path planning algorithms
  • Experience with hardware communication protocols (CAN, I2C, SPI, UART)
  • Familiarity with MOSA/SOSA standards and open architectures
  • Experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, MATLAB/Simulink)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms for autonomous systems
  • Military/defense robotics experience (ROS-M, JAUS)
  • Hands-on experience with RTOS (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) and/or embedded Linux (Yocto, Buildroot)
  • Knowledge of digital twin technologies and real-time simulation
  • Familiarity with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar safety standards
  • Experience with swarm robotics and distributed control
  • Understanding of SLAM and computer vision for navigation
  • Experience with environmental testing (MIL-STD-810)
  • Pilot's license or experience with FAA Part 107 operations

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in EE, CE, ME, CS or related field

Clearance:

  • Must be eligible for Secret security clearance
  • US Citizenship required

What Makes You Successful Here
  • You can go from CAD design to functioning prototype in days
  • You understand autonomy from sensors to behavior planning
  • You apply systems engineering rigor to rapid prototyping
  • You're comfortable with both lab development and field operations
  • You see MOSA as an enabler, not a constraint

Apply