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Robotics Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the Position We are seeking exceptional AI Robotics Researchers to join our next-generation intelligent systems team--pioneering the intersection of embodied AI , dexterous robotic manipulation ...

Posting Information Posting Number PG194570EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Robotics Research Engineer Anticipated Hiring Range $80,000 - $100,000 (Commensurate with education and/or ...

Working alongside leading researchers, you'll help advance open-source robotics software, improve model performance, and contribute to technologies shaping the next generation of intelligent ...

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Senior Robotics Research Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$128K - $175K/yr

Founded by leading robotics researchers, we are growing our dynamic, world-class team to deploy robots at scale. Join us in helping people handle more throughout the supply chain! We are seeking a ...

Aramco Americas Company Robotics Research Engineer - Software (1830) R&D Digital Transformation Team Staff - Houston, TX - Full Time OVERVIEW: The Sensors and Robotics Team at Aramco's Houston ...

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Robotics Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do robotics researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Robotics Researchers?

Robotics Researchers are professionals who study, design, and develop robots and robotic systems. They work on advancing the technology behind robots, exploring areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, sensors, and mechanical design. Their goal is to improve how robots perceive, interact with, and respond to their environment, enabling robots to perform tasks in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration. Robotics Researchers typically work in academic, corporate, or government research labs, collaborating with engineers and scientists from various fields.

What is the difference between Robotics Researcher vs Robotics Engineer?

AspectRobotics ResearcherRobotics Engineer
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/Ph.D.) often requiredBachelor's or Master's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D departmentsIndustrial settings, manufacturing, product development
Primary FocusDeveloping new algorithms, theories, and prototypesDesigning, building, and testing robotic systems
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizations, tech companiesManufacturers, tech firms, automation companies

While both roles involve robotics, a Robotics Researcher primarily focuses on advancing knowledge through research and innovation, often in academic or R&D settings. In contrast, a Robotics Engineer applies existing knowledge to develop practical robotic systems and solutions in industry.

What are some common challenges Robotics Researchers face when transitioning their work from simulation to real-world implementation?

A common challenge for Robotics Researchers is ensuring that algorithms and systems developed in simulation perform reliably on physical robots. Real-world environments introduce unpredictable variables such as sensor noise, hardware limitations, and dynamic obstacles that are often simplified or absent in simulations. Researchers must frequently iterate on their designs, conduct extensive testing, and collaborate with hardware engineers to bridge this gap. Adapting to these challenges requires flexibility, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Researcher, you need a strong background in robotics, computer science, engineering, and mathematics, usually supported by a relevant advanced degree (Master's or PhD). Proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, C++), simulation tools (like ROS, Gazebo), and machine learning frameworks is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are essential soft skills that set successful researchers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, overcoming technical challenges, and advancing the field of robotics.
More about Robotics Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Robotics Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Robotics Researcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Robotics Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Robotics Researcher

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 58 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about pursuing groundbreaking research to solve today's greatest challenges in robotics?
Do you enjoy working on meaningful interdisciplinary problems?
Do you thrive in a collaborative and creative environment?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
The Robotics Group in the Research and Exploratory Development Department is an interdisciplinary team of researchers that is inventing the future across the broad spectrum of robotics, with applications that strengthen national defense, improve healthcare, advance space exploration, and address critical challenges facing the nation. You can learn more about our current research at www.jhuapl.edu/isc.
We are seeking a highly skilled, highly motivated scientists and engineers to join us in taking intelligent robotic systems from concept to reality. We are a multidisciplinary team focused on groundbreaking impacts in the areas of robotics control, machine learning, generative AI, human-robot and robot-robot teaming, assured autonomy, and novel robot design. Our team is committed to excellence in research that has real-world impact. Successful members of our team tend to be creative problem solvers who are comfortable working at the edge of their comfort zone.
As a member of our team, your primary responsibility will be defining and developing novel robotic concepts, systems, and algorithmic solutions to address relevant challenges. Current research areas include robot trajectory planning, adaptive reasoning, robot perception, advanced control, enhanced mobility, novel robotic systems, human-machine and machine-machine teaming, and safe and assured autonomy behaviors. Depending on your expertise, you will develop and implement control algorithms, AI techniques, and robot designs. You will have the opportunity to publish your work and present the results of your efforts to the scientific community, external collaborators, and/or government sponsors. You will also have the opportunity to propose and work on your own research.
Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:
  • Have a Master's in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Have 2 years experience in robotics or robotics applications of AI, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or mathematics.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security 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:
  • Have a Ph.D. in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Have experience with technical writing and have previously published your work in the scientific literature.
  • Have experience developing, simulating, and demonstrating algorithms for control of robotic systems.
  • Have experience developing AI software that integrates with hardware such as robotic platforms, sensors, or medical devices.
  • Have experience designing, fabricating, and integrating robotics hardware.
  • Are skilled in one or more programming languages, particularly Python and C++.
  • Have demonstrated proficiency in using one or more common robotics or AI libraries such as ROS, TensorFlow, Pytorch, and OpenCV.

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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