1

Robotics Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ABI Research is seeking an analyst to support and expand its robotics research coverage, with a focus on robotics hardware and software. The role involves analyzing market trends, evaluating ...

ABI Research is seeking an analyst to support and expand its robotics research coverage, with a focus on robotics hardware and software. The role involves analyzing market trends, evaluating ...

ABI Research is seeking an analyst to support and expand its robotics research coverage, with a focus on robotics hardware and software. The role involves analyzing market trends, evaluating ...

As a Field Robotics Engineer , you will support users of a dual-arm robotics research platform used by AI labs, universities, and advanced robotics teams. Your work will focus on helping customers ...

This role requires a systems-oriented researcher who can drive technical direction, define strategy for scaling tactile data, and influence how foundation models are built for robotics. You will work ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Robotics Researcher information

See salary details

$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.
Senior Robotics Research Engineer

Senior Robotics Research Engineer

Ambi Robotics

Berkeley, CA

$190K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are a well-funded startup on a mission to build the nervous system for AI-powered robots in industrial applications.

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 Senior Robotics Research Engineer to design and develop fundamental new contributions to core robotics libraries and runtime application software for Ambi products, focused on new technology for the future. You will work closely with the Software team and the CTO.

In this role you will:
  • Independently develop robot applications and capabilities (controls, planning, perception)
  • Lead R&D projects for new AI-driven robot skills, powered by foundation models
  • Contribute to AmbiOS core libraries in areas such as: (a) scalable AI training, algorithms, models, and evaluation, (b) perception modules, (c) image and point cloud processing, (d) motion planning policies, (e) collision checkers
  • Support software deployments to AI-powered robotic systems in production with global brands
  • Modify existing software and configurations for new customers
You are a good fit if you have:
  • Eagerness to learn, solve challenging problems, and lead with curiosity
  • A desire for career growth, ownership of your work, and making an impact
  • Excitement about amplifying human potential with state-of-the-art robotics
  • Proficiency in C++, Python, Linux, Git, and, Docker
  • Expertise in motion planning, contact physics, machine learning, and computer vision
  • Experience in the following areas: robotics (3D rigid geometry, kinematics, motion planning), software architecture, state machines, multi-processing, operating systems (must know UNIX), drivers (cameras, sensors, other equipment), and software update systems
  • An MS with four years of experience in commercial robotics software development or equivalent or PhD in a very related subject
  • (BONUS) Experience in Rust 
In addition to competitive compensation, we offer benefits such as:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401k with 5% matching by Ambi
  • Equity ownership
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Partial WFH
  • Free parking on site at HQ
  • Access to a full gym at HQ
  • Free lunches 2x per week
PLEASE NOTE:
  • All applications must be submitted online for equitable review. We do not accept or review submissions sent via email, including to individual team members or engineers. This policy ensures a fair and streamlined process for everyone. 
FOR RECRUITERS:
  • This position is direct-hire only; unsolicited resumes from recruiters will not be considered and may result in a fee waiver.
$190,000 - $240,000 a year
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job