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Robotics Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FS Studio

Robot Teleoperator

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Operator: Controls the robot using teleoperation consoles and controller-style systems * Observer/Reset Operator: Monitors live feeds, manages scene resets, and supports task flow * Team members ...

FS Studio, Inc

Robot Teleoperator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Operator: Controls the robot using teleoperation consoles and controller-style systems * Observer/Reset Operator: Monitors live feeds, manages scene resets, and supports task flow * Team members ...

FS Studio

Robot Teleoperator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Operator: Controls the robot using teleoperation consoles and controller-style systems * Observer/Reset Operator: Monitors live feeds, manages scene resets, and supports task flow * Team members ...

Aerotek

AI Robot Operator/Robot Trainer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Robot Operator/Data Collector San Jose, CA, US 💡 No prior experience required -- All training ... Join an early-stage AI/Robotics startup that is pioneering the creation of a general-purpose ...

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All JobsRobotics Operator JobsRobotics Operator Jobs in California

Robotics Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do robotics operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for robotics operator in California is $18.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Robotics Operator do?

A Robotics Operator is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of robotic systems in various industrial settings. They ensure that robots function efficiently and safely, often programming and calibrating machines as needed for different tasks. Robotics Operators also monitor performance, perform routine inspections, and address any malfunctions or errors that may arise. Their role is critical in industries that rely on automation, such as manufacturing, automotive, and logistics, helping to increase productivity and reduce downtime.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics is an active and growing field with applications in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and more. Robotics operators are needed to program, maintain, and oversee robotic systems, which often require skills in electronics, programming, and troubleshooting. The demand for robotics professionals is expected to continue as automation advances across industries.

How to become a robot operator?

To become a robotics operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification in robotics, automation, or related fields. Experience with machinery, understanding of control systems, and familiarity with programming or troubleshooting robotic equipment are also important. On-the-job training is common, and skills in problem-solving and attention to detail are valuable in this role.

How much do robotics operators make?

Robotics operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or automation environments.

What do robotics operators do?

Robotics operators are responsible for setting up, monitoring, and maintaining robotic systems used in manufacturing or other industries. They troubleshoot issues, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may program or adjust robots to perform specific tasks. Proficiency with control systems and safety standards is essential for this role.

What is the difference between Robotics Operator vs Automation Technician?

AspectRobotics OperatorAutomation Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, assembly lines, industrial settingsIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants, maintenance environments
Job FocusOperating and monitoring robotic systemsMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing automation equipment
Industry UsageWidely used in manufacturing, automotive, electronicsCommon in manufacturing, process industries, and automation sectors

Robotics Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring robotic systems, while Automation Technicians handle maintenance and repairs of automation equipment. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but their responsibilities and skill requirements differ.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Operator, you need a solid understanding of robotics systems, automation processes, and basic programming, often supported by technical training or an associate degree in robotics, electronics, or a related field. Familiarity with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMI interfaces, and robotics programming languages such as ROS or FANUC is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for troubleshooting and collaborating with maintenance and engineering teams. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of robotic equipment in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Robotics Operators face when working with automated systems?

Robotics Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected technical malfunctions, adapting to frequent software updates, and maintaining high safety standards in fast-paced environments. They must quickly diagnose issues, minimize downtime, and communicate effectively with engineers and maintenance teams to resolve problems. Additionally, staying updated on new robotic technologies and procedures is essential for continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Robotics Operator jobs in California? For Robotics Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Robotics Operator job openings:
Robotics Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 74% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,368 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
AI Robotics Research Engineer

AI Robotics Research Engineer

Nimble Robotics

San Francisco, CA

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

About Nimble

Nimble is an AI robotics company building the autonomous supply chain to power fast, efficient and economical commerce. We're training robot AGI to power a proprietary generalist supply chain superhumanoid, the first robot in the world capable of performing thousands of tasks across the supply chain. We've raised over $220M at over $1B valuation and formed a strategic alliance with FedEx to build a national network of autonomous warehouses capable of generating many billions in annual revenue. We are a hardcore and obsessed team of the world's best engineers and operators. If you are obsessed with your craft, enjoy a high-intensity and fast moving high impact environment, are super high agency in getting hard things done and want to be part of building the world's most legendary robotics company at the most pivotal moment in history, we want to work with you.

We are on a mission to empower and inspire mankind to accomplish legendary feats by inventing robots that liberate us from the menial. We will accomplish this by training robot AGI to invent and build the Autonomous Supply Chain – everything from the inside of factories and warehouses to your front door – powered by generalist superhumanoids.

Our founding team comes from the AI labs at Stanford and Carnegie Mellon and our board of directors include famed robotics and AI legends including Fei-Fei Li (Chief Scientist of AI at Google and Director of Stanford's AI Lab), Marc Raibert (founder of Boston Dynamics), and Sebastian Thrun (founder of GoogleX, Waymo; Stanford Professor and considered the father of autonomous vehicles).

Let's be legendary.

Why Join Nimble?
At Nimble, we are committed to building legendary products, a legendary team, and a legendary legacy. Join us and become part of an ambitious, humble, and resourceful culture where your work will leave a lasting impact on the future of robotics and commerce.
Nimble's Core Values:
Be relentlessly resourceful - Challenge conventions and overcome obstacles.
Be legendary - Be the very best and do work that inspires.
Be humble - Prioritize growth, learning, and doing whatever is needed to further the mission.
Be dependable - Take ownership and deliver with high agency.
The Role
Nimble is looking for an AI Robotics Research Engineer to help us advance our robotics moonshot by designing, developing, training, and implementing robotic foundation models, Vision-Language-Action Models, general-purpose robotic AI models, and reinforcement learning algorithms controlling multi-agent robot fleets.
You will play a critical role in working with our all-star cross-functional team to build models with immediate applications for the world's biggest robotics opportunity.
Responsibilities
    • Develop and train diffusion policies, VLMs, multi-agent deep RL policies and more
    • Develop data collection pipelines
    • Design data annotation and labeling
    • Support implementation of models into production systems
Qualifications
    • Masters or P.h.D in Robotics or Computer Science
    • Experience training deep learning models for robotic manipulation or mobility
    • Experience working with real robotic hardware
    • Experience training models in simulation and developing simulation environments
    • Experience collecting custom datasets
    • Experience training on open-source datasets
    • Strong track record of publishing papers and/or deploying real-world applications
    • Experience with system architecture, design and development
Additional Requirements
    • Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed
    • Must be able to work in San Francisco
$180,000 - $220,000 a year
The above range is the salary range. This position will also receive generous equity for this position.
Culture:
We embrace challenges and strive to make the impossible possible each day. We're not in this to do what's easy or to be mediocre. We want to create something legendary and leave our mark on the world. We're ambitious, we're gritty, we're humble and we're relentlessly resourceful in pursuit of our goals. If this sounds like you then you might be a great fit!
Nimble Robotics, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We make all employment decisions based solely on merit. We provide equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state, federal or local laws.
Nimble's Benefits
Unlimited Flexible Time Off
Enjoy the time you need to travel, rejuvenate, and connect with friends and family.
Health Insurance
Nimble provides medical, dental, and vision insurance through several premier plans and options to support you and your family.
Paid Parental Leave
Enjoy paid bonding time following a birth.
Commuter Benefits
Take the stress out of commuting with access to fully-paid parking spots.
Referral Bonus
Get a cash bonus for any friend or colleagues that you refer to us that we end up hiring.
401k
Contribute towards a 401k for retirement planning.
Equity
Be an owner in Nimble through our equity program
Link: Nimble Closes $106 Million Series C Funding Round, Scales Fully Autonomous Fulfillment with FedEx
Link: FedEx Announces Expansion of FedEx Fulfillment With Nimble Alliance