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Robotics Simulation Jobs in Ashburn, VA (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 ... Developing and expanding advance simulation and motion planning capabilities * Collaborating with ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Robotics Engineer

Washington, DC

$99K - $225K/yr

Robotics Engineer The Opportunity: Support the research and development of unmanned systems across ... with simulation tools * Ability tointerface with various external libraries, SDKs, and APIs, and ...

Estes Aerospace

Autonomy / Robotics Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

You'll take your designs from concept all the way through simulation, hardware-in-the-loop testing ... Strong background in robotics, computer vision, and/or kalman filtering * Experience implementing ...

Molg

Senior Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Senior Robotics Engineer ABOUT US Hey! We're Molg We're building robotic systems that make ... Developing and expanding advance simulation and motion planning capabilities * Collaborating with ...

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All JobsRobotics Simulation JobsRobotics Simulation Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Robotics Simulation information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$11.2K

$69.1K

$124.2K

How much do robotics simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics simulation in Ashburn, VA is $69,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $81,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Robotics Simulation jobs in Ashburn, VA?

For Robotics Simulation jobs in Ashburn, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robotics Simulation jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Robotics Simulation jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Robotics Simulation jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Robotics Simulation job openings:

Robotics Simulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Simulation job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,129 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Subsea Robotics Engineer-Laurel, Maryland

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Glen Echo, MD

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 hours ago

Posted today

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you excited about developing software that enables autonomous underwater vehicles to operate in challenging real-world environments?
Do you enjoy combining robotics, dynamics, controls, and software engineering to solve complex mission problems?
If so, the Maritime Robotics Group is looking for an early-career Subsea Robotics Engineer to join our Modeling and Control team.
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
Our mission is to develop, integrate, test, and deploy advanced robotic capabilities that provide our nation with an advantage in autonomous maritime systems. We build software that enables autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles to navigate, maneuver, interact with their environment, and accomplish challenging operational missions. Our work spans simulation, controls, autonomy, system integration, laboratory testing, and at-sea experimentation, with an emphasis on delivering robust capabilities that transition to operational systems.
As a member of our team, you will work closely with robotics, software, mechanical, electrical, and ocean engineers to develop and deploy advanced underwater robotic systems.
As a Subsea Robotics Engineer, you will:
  • Develop robotics software for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and other subsea robotic systems using ROS 2.
  • Design, implement, and maintain modular software in C++ and Python on Linux-based systems.
  • Develop and integrate dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, and autonomy algorithms for underwater robotic platforms.
  • Build high-fidelity simulation environments and modeling tools to support software development, system integration, and mission planning.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and vehicle subsystems into robust robotic software architectures.
  • Evaluate vehicle performance through simulation, laboratory testing, and field experiments, using collected data to improve system performance.
  • Support integration and testing of robotic systems in laboratory, pool, and at-sea environments.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to transition software from development into operational robotic systems

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have experience developing robotic software using ROS 2.
  • Have experience developing software on Linux.
  • Are proficient in Python and C++.
  • Have experience developing, implementing, or testing dynamic systems, feedback control algorithms, robotic simulation, or autonomous systems through coursework, research projects, internships, or professional experience.
  • Have familiarity with software engineering best practices, including Git-based version control, debugging, testing, and documentation.
  • Enjoy working in multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging engineering problems.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a Secret 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 Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have experience developing dynamics, controls, guidance, navigation, or autonomy software for robotic systems.
  • Have experience modeling and simulating robotic or autonomous systems using Gazebo, Ignition, Stonefish, Isaac Sim, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar tools.
  • Have experience integrating robotic sensors such as IMUs, DVLs, sonars, cameras, pressure sensors, or manipulators.
  • Have experience with state estimation, system identification, trajectory generation, optimization, or motion planning.
  • Have experience with containerized software development, continuous integration, or modern DevSecOps workflows.
  • Have participated in field testing, vehicle integration, or deployment of robotic systems.
  • Have demonstrated initiative in developing new technical capabilities or leading engineering efforts.

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
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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