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Robotics Simulation Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

They are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and visualization tools for autonomous robotics, engaging in the full software process and leading ...

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Robotics Simulation information

What is robotics simulation?

Robotics simulation is the use of computer software to model and test the behavior of robots in a virtual environment. This allows engineers and researchers to design, program, and optimize robots without needing physical prototypes, saving time and resources. Simulations can replicate real-world conditions, enabling the analysis of robot movement, sensor data, and task performance before implementation. Robotics simulation is commonly used in developing autonomous systems, industrial automation, and research applications.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Simulation Engineer, you need a strong background in robotics, computer science, and mathematics, often supported by a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools like Gazebo, ROS (Robot Operating System), MATLAB/Simulink, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is essential. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that help in designing and refining complex simulation models. These abilities are crucial for creating accurate simulations that accelerate development, testing, and deployment of robotic systems.

What is the difference between Robotics Simulation vs Robotics Software Engineer?

AspectRobotics SimulationRobotics Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Computer Science, or related; experience with simulation toolsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Robotics, or related; programming skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation platforms, development teamsSoftware development teams, robotics companies, tech firms
Industry UsageTesting algorithms, virtual prototyping, system validationDeveloping robot control software, algorithms, and integration
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Robotics Simulation focuses on creating virtual environments to test and validate robotic systems, while Robotics Software Engineers develop the actual software that controls robots. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of robotics development, with simulation emphasizing testing and validation, and software engineering focusing on implementation and coding.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in robotics simulation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in robotics simulation often encounter challenges such as accurately modeling real-world physics, ensuring simulation fidelity, and integrating with hardware or software systems. Addressing these requires a strong understanding of both robotics and simulation tools, as well as effective collaboration with engineers, software developers, and testers. Staying updated with advancements in simulation platforms and maintaining clear documentation are key strategies to overcome these challenges and ensure the simulations provide meaningful insights for development and testing.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Robotics Simulation jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Robotics Simulation job openings:
Infographic showing various Robotics Simulation job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.
Senior Software Engineer

$121K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Are you a seasoned software engineer who enjoys building highperformance systems, working close to the hardware, and solving sophisticated problems with modern tools?

Do you want to apply your experience to challenging problems within national defense?

If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

The Weapon Systems Engineering group at APL is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to prototype, integrate, test, and deploy nextgeneration software for advanced weapon and missile defense systems, simulations, and test environments. You'll work at the intersection of embedded software, largescale simulation, and cloudnative deployment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and analysts. Prior defense experience is not required; experience with realtime systems, game engines, highperformance simulations, or systems-of-systems software frameworks is highly relevant.

As a Senior Software Engineer you will...
  • Provide technical expertise for design and implementation of missioncritical software or software architectures across:
    • Inflight / tactical software using a modular open systems architecture (MOSA)
    • Modeling and simulation (including AFSIM and similar frameworks)
    • Systemsofsystems and Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) test environments
  • Develop, build and deploy simulations for:
    • Containerized / Kubernetes environments
    • HighPerformance Computing (HPC) environments (e.g., SLURM)
  • Contribute to DevSecOps and GitLabbased workflows
  • Provide technical leadership, mentor others, and collaborate across disciplines

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or related field
  • 5+ years professional software development experience
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++11 or later)
  • Direct experience with Python 3 (tooling, scripting, data processing)
  • Linux development experience (compiling, debugging, shell tools, basic system admin for development)
  • Experience with multithreaded/concurrent software, including:
  • Threads, async/futures, or similar concurrency approaches
  • Interprocess communication (message queues, JSON, sockets, gRPC, etc.) and performance considerations
  • Experience with Git and branchandmerge workflows (feature branches, merge/pull requests, code review)
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level 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.

Special Working Conditions: Occasional travel to sponsor, contractor, or government facilities for meetings and reviews. Occasional support of test events involving extended hours, travel aboard ships and travel to field sites.

You'll stand out if you have one or more of the following:

  • Master's degree or higher in CS, CE/EE, Physics, Math, or related field
  • Embedded C/C++ or inflight/realtime software experience
  • Experience with AFSIM, EADSIM, or similar simulation frameworks (game engines, robotics simulators, custom modeling)
  • Handson experience with Docker and/or Podman
  • Experience deploying/operating services on Kubernetes (e.g., Rancher, OpenShift)
  • Deep experience with CMake and/or Conan
  • Practical experience with GitLab CI/CD (authoring and maintaining pipelines)

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 athttps://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 contactAccessibility@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
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually