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Robotics Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Judge Group, Inc.

Robotics Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$150K - $155K/yr

Robotics Engineer Cupertino, CA Fulltime You will be responsible for debugging robotic solutions, including robotic arms and other solutions that are built in-house. You must know how robotics works ...

2T Consulting

Senior Robotics Engineer

Cupertino, CA

Support assembly and integration of robotic components with engineering teams * Execute debugging scripts and assist in identifying system issues (e.g., power, connectivity, mechanical faults) * Test ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Robotics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

This position will be part of the US Navy RESTORE (Reverse Engineering, Science, and Technology for ... Support development of high-reliability electro-mechanical robotic systems, including design ...

Meta

Robotics Manipulation Engineer

Fremont, CA

$208K/yr

The role involves close collaboration with hardware engineering, manufacturing, test engineering, robotics teams, and operations partners to improve serviceability, repair efficiency, and overall ...

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All JobsRobotics Engineering JobsRobotics Engineering Jobs in California

Robotics Engineering information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$104.2K

$166.8K

How much do robotics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics engineering in California is $104,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $125,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of teams do Robotics Engineers typically work with, and how do they collaborate on projects?

Robotics Engineers often work in multidisciplinary teams that may include software developers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and project managers. Collaboration is essential, as projects usually require integrating hardware design, software development, and sensor systems. Regular meetings, joint problem-solving sessions, and shared project management tools help keep everyone aligned. Effective communication and a willingness to learn from colleagues in different fields are key to successfully delivering complex robotics solutions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior robotics engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like AI, machine learning, or automation, and advanced degrees can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-cost-of-living regions or within leading technology companies. Such roles often require leadership responsibilities, patents, or significant contributions to innovative projects.

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, electronics, computer science, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in robotics or related fields. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C++, Python, or ROS), CAD software, and control systems is essential, along with relevant certifications like Certified Robotics Programmer. Problem-solving, creativity, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure the successful design, development, and integration of advanced robotic systems in complex environments.

What jobs can you get with a robotics engineering degree?

A robotics engineering degree qualifies individuals for roles such as robotics engineer, automation engineer, control systems engineer, and research scientist. These jobs typically involve designing, developing, and testing robotic systems, often requiring knowledge of programming, mechanical design, and control theory.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics engineering is an active and growing field, with applications in manufacturing, healthcare, automation, and research. The demand for skilled professionals with knowledge of sensors, programming, and control systems continues to increase as technology advances.

What work does a Robotics Engineer do?

A Robotics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains robotic systems used in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. They work with sensors, actuators, and control systems, often using programming languages like C++ or Python, and may require knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering principles. Their work involves problem-solving, system integration, and ensuring robots operate safely and efficiently.

What are robotics engineers?

Robotics engineers are professionals who design, build, and maintain robots and automated systems. They apply principles from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to develop machines that can perform tasks autonomously or with minimal human intervention. Robotics engineers work in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and aerospace to create solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. Their work often involves programming, prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting robotic systems.
What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Robotics Engineering job openings:
Robotics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,222 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Technical Leader / Manager, Robotics Engineering

Technical Leader / Manager, Robotics Engineering

Third Wave Automation

Union City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Third Wave Automation is a rapidly growing startup that has demonstrated its core technology components, proven its market fit, and just closed its Series C funding. If you are excited about cutting edge machine learning, robotics that affects the real world, and want to join a company where your skills can have a huge impact, you'll fit right in. Wes are applying modern machine learning to materials handling-delivering site-specific forklift navigation and infrastructure-free pallet handling that continuously adapts to changing floor configuration and warehouse demand.
TWA is looking to hire a principal level Technical Lead Manager to lead the charge in maturing one of our robotics platforms. We are currently transitioning one of our products into a massive scale-up (100-1000 units) in partnership with a world-leading forklift OEM.
In this role, you will lead a dedicated team of 4-5 engineers taking our system from 90% functional completeness to a 100% production-ready state. Strong understanding of OOP and OOD are imperative; you will play a key role in software design as well as code review sessions. We empower our team with an AI-first engineering culture, leveraging LLMs and generative tools to accelerate the SDLC. As the TLM, you will champion this modern development stack to meet the rigorous expectations of a global industrial leader without sacrificing startup velocity. You are a "Systems-First" leader who can still jump into C++/Python code but spends your best cycles focusing on reliability enhancements, performance tuning, and the rigorous documentation required for a mature product.
Success in this role hinges on cross-functional collaboration. You will partner closely with a Technical Program Manager (TPM) and the Head of Engineering to align delivery timelines with a well-defined technical scope. You will also serve as a primary technical interface with our OEM partner's engineers, ensuring a deep understanding of forklift interfaces, sensors, and capabilities. Beyond integration, you will proactively propose enhancements to the OEM's base solution to ensure we deliver a market-leading product.
This role is a cornerstone of TWA's evolution from an R&D-focused startup to a premier product delivery company. You will leverage your broad experience in both server-based and robotic/hardware systems to drive successful delivery, helping TWA capture a billion-dollar market and delight customers at an unprecedented scale.
How You Can Make an Impact
  • Lead the "Final Mile" of Productization: Drive the transition from a functional prototype to a production-ready system. You will own the roadmap for reliability enhancements, performance tuning, and hardening the software stack to ensure 24/7 operational success across 1,000+ units.
  • Scale with an AI-First Mindset: Champion the use of generative AI tools (e.g., Gemini, Cursor) within your team to automate the mundane-like generating unit tests and boilerplate-allowing your engineers to focus on the high-level architectural and safety challenges of mass-market robotics.
  • Drive Engineering Maturity: Move the needle on "Quality-as-a-Product." You will establish the technical processes and rigorous documentation (e.g., interface specs, fail-safe logic, performance benchmarks) necessary to satisfy both internal standards and the expectations of a global industrial partner.
  • Architect the Integration Strategy: Act as the primary technical leader driving how TWA's software interfaces with the OEM's hardware. You'll identify technical risks early and propose innovative enhancements to the base vehicle platform to unlock new product capabilities.
  • Foster a High-Performance Team: Provide direct technical mentorship and management for a small, focused team (4-5 engineers). You will cultivate a culture that balances the "move fast" spirit of a startup with the "get it right" discipline of an industrial leader.
  • Bridge Technical & Product Goals: Partner with the TPM and Head of Engineering to translate complex system-level trade-offs into clear, actionable delivery milestones, ensuring our engineering efforts stay perfectly aligned with our 2026 market release.

Qualifications
  • 10+ years of progressive engineering experience, with a track record of bringing complex hardware/software products from prototype to mass commercial deployment (100+ units).
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python, with a strong understanding of how to architect maintainable, production-grade code for real-world robotic systems. Expert code review skills are a must-have!
  • Experience in a software development leadership role (Engineering Manager or Tech Lead) managing a team of 4-5 engineers through a successful product launch.
  • Deep expertise in the Product Development Lifecycle (PDLC) within robotics or autonomous vehicles; you understand how to move from "functional code" to "hardened product."
  • Fluency with AI-assisted development tools (e.g., Cursor, Gemini, Copilot) and the ability to lead a team in using LLMs to accelerate the SDLC safely and effectively.
  • Proven experience in a Lead Engineering capacity, with responsibility for the system-level design and integration of a multidisciplinary stack.
  • Demonstrated ability to interface with mature external partners, conforming to established engineering, quality, and support processes without losing startup agility.
  • Strong technical background in at least two of the following: Robotics systems architecture, vehicle control systems, functional safety, robust software/firmware design, or industrial hardware integration.
  • Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable plans for both R&D engineers and senior leadership.
  • Familiarity with formal process methodologies and how to apply them pragmatically in a startup environment.
  • Experience with safety-critical systems or products requiring formal certification (e.g., ISO 3691-4, ISO 13849).
  • Expertise in defining system-level requirements for manufacturing, quality assurance, and end-of-line (EOL) testing.
  • Minimum of a Bachelors degree in Robotics, CS, Physics, or related discipline. Advanced Degree (MS/PhD) is highly preferred.

Some of TWA's benefits and perks:
  • Comprehensive benefits. Health, Dental, Vision, and a 401k matching program, to boot!
  • Flexible working schedule. Be productive when you work best.
  • Show & Tell. We love to learn from one another, and see the cool stuff everyone is working on!
  • Meals are covered. Lunch is provided every day, and dinner for those evenings that run long.
  • Stacks of snacks. Donuts are a main food group, and the snack shelf is always stocked with a wide variety of items.
  • Great teammates. One of the best parts of working here!

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We value each person's expertise and experiences. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
The pay range for this position is $168,000 - $360,000/yr+ benefits+equity; however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Base pay information is based on market location.
All qualified applicants able to work in the United States are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor H-1 visas subject to fees required by the 'Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers' Presidential Proclamation dated September 21, 2025.

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