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Robotics Manager Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Product Manager

Jessup, MD · On-site +1

$158K - $217K/yr

Product Manager Overview Liquid Robotics is seeking a Product Manager to lead the development, release and sustainment of our products through the definition of roadmaps and features based on ...

Liquid Robotics is currently seeking a skilled Office Manager for our Jessup, MD facility. The Office Manager is a highly visible role that serves as the first point of contact for all guests ...

Systems Engineering Manager Liquid Robotics is seeking a Systems Engineering Manager to lead and manager a team of Systems Engineers in the development of autonomous ocean robots. You and your team ...

Documentation Manager Liquid Robotics is seeking a Documentation Manager to lead creation, maintenance, and organization of technical documentation for Wave Glider systems. This on-site role in ...

Robotics Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

Robotics Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including mechanical design, electronics, sensors ... managing team-based design projects. Adapts instruction using hands-on building activities ...

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Showing results 1-20

Robotics Manager information

See Washington, DC salary details

$26.1K

$69.5K

$116.1K

How much do robotics manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics manager in Washington, DC is $69,486.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,800.00 and $78,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotics manager?

To thrive as a Robotics Manager, you need expertise in robotics engineering, project management, and a relevant degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with automation software, robotics programming languages (such as Python or ROS), and knowledge of safety and compliance standards is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively guide multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These competencies ensure successful development, deployment, and maintenance of robotic systems while fostering innovation and operational efficiency.

What does a robotics manager do?

A Robotics Manager oversees teams that design, build, and maintain robotic systems used in manufacturing, research, or other industries. They coordinate projects, manage budgets, and ensure that robotic solutions meet organizational needs. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting technical issues, supervising engineers and technicians, and staying updated on the latest advancements in robotics. By bridging the gap between technical teams and management, they help streamline operations and drive innovation.

What are some common challenges a robotics manager faces when leading multidisciplinary teams?

Robotics Managers often oversee teams composed of engineers, software developers, and technicians, which can lead to challenges in aligning diverse skill sets and communication styles. Balancing project timelines with the need for innovation and rigorous testing is another common hurdle. Effective Robotics Managers foster collaboration by setting clear goals, facilitating cross-functional meetings, and ensuring open communication channels to keep everyone aligned and motivated.

What is the difference between Robotics Manager vs Robotics Engineer?

AspectRobotics ManagerRobotics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Robotics, Engineering, or related field; management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, coordinates with departmentsDesigns, develops, tests robotic systems; works in labs or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, research institutionsResearch labs, tech companies, manufacturing firms
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, project management, team oversightTechnical development, system design, programming

The main difference between a Robotics Manager and a Robotics Engineer lies in their focus. Robotics Managers oversee teams and projects, ensuring goals are met, while Robotics Engineers focus on designing and developing robotic systems. Both roles require strong technical backgrounds, but the Manager emphasizes leadership and coordination, whereas the Engineer emphasizes technical expertise and innovation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Robotics jobs in Washington, DC are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Manager jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Manager jobs in Washington, DC are:

Robotics Engineer for Tailored Autonomous Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about robotics, autonomous systems, and advanced mission capabilities?
Do you enjoy collaborating with multidisciplinary teams through the development, integration, and transition of complex autonomous systems?
Are you interested in shaping the future of robotics and autonomy for critical national security missions?
The Tailored Autonomous Systems Group (QPJ) is seeking a Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer to help us develop, implement and field mission-tailored autonomous systems that perform sensing, decision-making, and coordinated action in complex operational environments. Our work spans perception, autonomy algorithms, platform behaviors, modeling and simulation, full stack development, and software deployment on resource-constrained systems.
As a Robotics & Autonomous Systems Engineer, you will...
  • You will work closely with engineers, scientists, and program managers to develop mission-relevant autonomous systems for sponsors and end users in the defense and intelligence communities.
  • You will contribute to the architecture, design, implementation, integration, and test of autonomy systems spanning sensing, software, communications, and hardware.
  • You will develop and integrate capabilities including perception, planning, navigation, controls, AI/ML inference, and multi-agent autonomy on resource-constrained platforms.
  • You will participate in system architecture trades, requirements development, interface definition, and technical design reviews throughout the system lifecycle.
  • You will support verification, validation, and test activities, including simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), laboratory integration, and field experimentation.
  • You will collaborate across mechanical, electrical, software, systems, and AI/ML disciplines to deliver integrated mission capabilities.
  • You will present technical work to project teams, leadership, and sponsors, while taking increasing ownership of technical tasks and project execution.
  • You will contribute to proposal development, internal research initiatives (IRAD), and technology transition efforts that expand the group's autonomy portfolio.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Hold a Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or another related technical field.
  • Have at least 2 years of professional experience developing, integrating, testing, or fielding robotics, autonomous systems, embedded systems, or other complex engineering systems.
  • Have experience contributing to the design, development, integration, and test of hardware and/or software systems.
  • Have experience programming in one or more languages such as Python, C++, Rust, or similar.
  • Have strong written and verbal communication skills and enjoy working in multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Top Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Hold a Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Have experience developing robotic platforms, autonomous systems, or embedded systems for operational environments.
  • Have experience with ROS/ROS2, Gazebo, Isaac Sim, Unreal Engine, AirSim, or similar robotics simulation environments.
  • Have experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) testing, digital twins, or simulation-based system development.
  • Have experience with AI/ML, perception, planning, controls, SLAM, navigation, or multi-agent autonomy.
  • Have experience with systems engineering, including requirements development, interface definition, system integration, verification, or technical trade studies.
  • Have experience leading small technical efforts or work packages, including coordinating technical tasks across multiple disciplines.
  • Have experience supporting proposal development or IRAD activities.
  • Have experience working directly with DoD, Intelligence Community, or other government sponsors.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance.

#LI-AG1
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 Accessibility@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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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