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Robotics Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Molg

Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Robotics Engineer ABOUT US Hey! We're Molg 👋 We're building robotic systems that make electronics manufacturing circular. We work with hyperscalers and leading electronics manufacturers to ...

MOLG

Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

As a Robotics Engineer, you will be responsible for: * Delivering high-quality, testable code for built/integrated robotic hardware (i.e. microfactories) * Building core CAD to robotic motion and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Robotics Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Robotics Engineer The Opportunity: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Robotics Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Robotics Engineer The Opportunity: Conduct the research, development, integration, deployment, and evaluation of robotic and unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and DoD warfighter ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Robotics Engineer

Washington, DC

$99K - $225K/yr

Robotics Engineer The Opportunity: Support the research and development of unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and mission areas. Function at the intersection ofsoftware and hardware ...

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All JobsRobotics Programmer JobsRobotics Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC

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How much do robotics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for robotics programmer in Washington, DC is $41.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.57 and $48.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a robotics programmer?

A Robotics Programmer is a professional who writes, tests, and maintains the software that controls robotic systems and automation equipment. They work with various programming languages and platforms to ensure robots perform specific tasks efficiently and safely. Robotics Programmers often collaborate with engineers and technicians to integrate robotics into manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and other industries. Their work is essential for advancing automation and improving productivity in many fields.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Programmer, you need strong programming skills (especially in languages like Python, C++, or ROS), a background in engineering or computer science, and a solid understanding of robotics principles. Familiarity with industrial robotics platforms, simulation tools, and control systems, along with certifications in robotics or automation, is highly beneficial. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully developing, deploying, and troubleshooting robotic systems in dynamic technical environments.

What are some common challenges robotics programmers face when integrating new robotic systems into existing manufacturing workflows?

Robotics Programmers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new robots and legacy equipment, troubleshooting communication protocols, and minimizing downtime during system integration. They must also adapt programming to accommodate unique production requirements and collaborate closely with engineers, operators, and maintenance teams to address unexpected issues. Effective problem-solving and clear communication are key to successfully integrating new robotic systems while maintaining productivity and safety.

What is the difference between Robotics Programmer vs Robotics Engineer?

AspectRobotics ProgrammerRobotics Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate's or bachelor's degree in robotics, computer science, or related field; programming certificationsUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in robotics, mechanical, or electrical engineering; advanced certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFocuses on coding, testing, and debugging robot software; often in labs or development settingsDesigns, develops, and integrates robotic systems; works in labs, manufacturing plants, or field environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and research institutionsFound in industrial automation, aerospace, automotive, and research sectors

While both roles involve working with robotic systems, Robotics Programmers primarily focus on writing and testing software code for robots, whereas Robotics Engineers design and develop entire robotic systems, including hardware and software integration. The roles often overlap, but the engineer's scope is broader, involving system design and implementation.

How much do robotics programmers make?

Robotics programmers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in programming languages like C++ and Python, as well as knowledge of robotics frameworks, can lead to higher compensation.

Is robotics programming a good career?

Robotics programming is a growing field that involves developing software to control robotic systems, often requiring knowledge of programming languages like C++ or Python and familiarity with hardware integration. It offers opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and automation, with a demand for skilled professionals and competitive salaries. Continuous learning and staying updated with new technologies are important for success in this career.

What does a robotics programmer do?

A robotics programmer designs, develops, and tests software that controls robotic systems. They write code using programming languages like C++ or Python, often work with hardware interfaces, and troubleshoot issues to ensure robots perform tasks accurately and efficiently. Knowledge of robotics frameworks and sensors is also essential in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Robotics Programmer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Robotics Programmer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robotics Programmer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Robotics Programmer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Robotics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Programmer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 87% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,884 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

NIST PREP Robotics Programmer

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.
Research Title: Robotics Programmer
The work will entail: NIST is focused on the development and integration of robotic software architectures, leveraging ROS2, Java, C#, and C++ to build scalable control frameworks. The work will involve designing robust system interfaces and implementing PLC programming to bridge high-level logic with physical hardware, ensuring seamless interoperability and performance across diverse robotic platforms.
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Develop, integrate, and maintain scalable robotic software architectures using ROS 2, C++, Java, and C# in collaboration with NIST researchers.
  • Implement Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and design system interfaces to bridge high-level autonomous logic with industrial physical hardware and sensors.
  • Build robust device drivers, communication protocols, and APIs to ensure seamless software interoperability and execution across diverse robotic platforms.
  • Conduct hands-on system testing, debugging, and performance optimization on real physical hardware and simulated environments to ensure reliable operation.
  • Document codebase architectures, write system user guides, and present regular project progress updates to team members and project leads.

Qualifications
  • US Citizens preferred.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Hands-on experience developing software applications within the ROS 2 ecosystem.
  • Understanding of robotic nodes, topics, services, actions, and custom message types.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and/or Java.
  • Proficiency or working experience with C# and Python.
  • Experience with PLC programming (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagrams) for industrial automation.
  • Experience interfacing high-level controllers with industrial hardware (e.g., actuators, relays, safety systems, fieldbus protocols).
  • Proficient with version control systems and workflows (e.g., Git, GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket).
  • Experience working in Linux/Unix (Ubuntu) environments as well as Windows.
  • Solid grounding in object-oriented programming (OOP), software testing, and debugging strategies.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0005093

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