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Robotics Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Autonomous Robotics Software Engineer (Robotics / Autonomy / C++) Advanced Robotics Group, LLC is seeking highly skilled Autonomous Robotics Software Engineers to join a small, high-performing team ...

Build internal tools, scripts, and workflows that improve developer velocity, testing efficiency ... Robotics Software Fundamentals : Experience working with one or more core robotics domains such as ...

Build internal tools, scripts, and workflows that improve developer velocity, testing efficiency ... Robotics Software Fundamentals : Experience working with one or more core robotics domains such as ...

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Role Overview We are hiring a Software & Robotics Engineer to build and deploy real-world robotic systems across warehouse and industrial environments. This is a full-time, hands-on role focused on ...

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Robotics Software Developer information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do robotics software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software developer in California is $110,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Software Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as C++, Python, or ROS, along with a background in computer science, engineering, or robotics. Familiarity with robotics simulation platforms (e.g., Gazebo), version control systems (e.g., Git), and experience with sensor integration and real-time operating systems are typically required. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills to excel in multidisciplinary environments. These abilities ensure reliable development, integration, and deployment of robotic systems that meet both technical and user requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Robotics Software Developers in integrating hardware and software components?

Robotics Software Developers often encounter challenges related to ensuring seamless communication between software algorithms and diverse hardware components like sensors, actuators, and controllers. Differences in hardware specifications, real-time constraints, and debugging low-level hardware interactions can add complexity to development. Collaborating closely with hardware engineers is essential to address issues quickly and optimize system performance. Staying up to date with new frameworks and tools, such as ROS (Robot Operating System), also helps streamline integration and testing.

What does a Robotics Software Developer do?

A Robotics Software Developer designs, develops, and maintains the software that controls robotic systems. They write code that enables robots to sense their environment, make decisions, and perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. These developers often work with embedded systems, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve robot performance. Their work is essential for applications ranging from manufacturing automation to healthcare and service robots.

What is the difference between Robotics Software Developer vs Mechatronics Engineer?

AspectRobotics Software DeveloperMechatronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Robotics, or related field; programming certificationsBachelor's in Mechatronics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, labs, robotics companiesDesign, integrate mechanical and electronic systems, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageRobotics firms, automation companies, research labsManufacturing, automation, product design
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Robotics Software Developers focus on programming and developing software for robotic systems, while Mechatronics Engineers work on designing and integrating mechanical, electronic, and software components. Both roles often collaborate but differ mainly in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Robotics Software Developer job openings:
Robotics Software Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Robotics Software Engineer
Standard Benefits
  • Competitive Base Salary
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • 401(k) Matching
  • Health Insurance (100% of all premiums for individual and family covered)
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation/Sick Accruals
Job Description

The Robotics Software Engineer is responsible for development of software for space and field robotics applications, troubleshooting and testing software on robotic platforms and building/tailoring robotics software DevOps infrastructure

Classification: At-will; Exempt; Salaried
Reports To: Vice President, Operations
Location: Pasadena, CA
Work Environment: Office/Lab
Citizenship Requirement: Motiv Space Systems, Inc. positions require access to defense articles, equipment, technical information or service that is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by ITAR, 22 CFR 120.15, 8 USC 1101(a)(20), and 8 USC 1324b(a)(3).
Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week (some overtime may be required)

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop software for space and field robotics applications (sensing and perception, manipulation and mobility, motion planning and control)
  • Troubleshoot and test software on robotic platforms
  • Build/tailor robotics software DevOps infrastructure
  • Collaborate with Motiv hardware teams to address software needs associated with complex robotic system design, physics-based modeling amp; simulation, rapid prototyping, testing and demonstration
  • Apply robotics software best practices to develop and deliver production software for Motiv products and customer mission systems

Note, Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, modified or changed at any time at the Company’s discretion. Changes may be made formally, informally either verbally or in writing.

Education, Experience, and Training

Minimum Qualifications

  • B.S. degree in robotics or related engineering or computer science disciplines with at least 3 years of experience working with physical robotic systems
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python
  • Experience with Linux/Ubuntu and real-time operating systems for electro-mechanical hardware
  • Familiarity and development experience with ROS 2 and associated best practices
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • M.S. degree in robotics or related engineering or computer science disciplines
  • Familiarity with robot vision/perception, kinematics, dynamics, motion planning and control
  • Practical experience developing software and ROS 2 drivers for robotic manipulators or mobility systems and associated sensors and actuators
  • Prior experience developing flight software for space/planetary missions and/or application software for field robotics applications
  • Experience with middleware, libraries, architectures, simulation tools, and messaging and communications protocols commonly used for robotics
  • Experience spanning embedded software/firmware to high-level software development within open architectures

Motiv Space Systems is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. As we work to build the future of space and space robotics, it is our mission to create an inclusive environment for all employees. Driving pioneering space missions and designing robotic infrastructure require the best talent possible, so we encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.