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Robotics Software Developer Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

Molg

Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Work with a talented cross-functional team of software, mechanical, electrical, and robotics engineers to develop our core technologies in robotics, assembly intelligence, computer vision, and ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

... Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc. DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Molg

Senior Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Work with a talented cross-functional team of software, mechanical, electrical, and robotics engineers to develop our core technologies in robotics, assembly intelligence, computer vision, and ...

HighPoint Global

Software Developer

Washington, DC · On-site

End-to-end development of business processes using Blue Prism or similar RPA software with ability ... Python programming * Web application development * MS SQL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: * Experience in ...

Cymertek Corporation

Software Engineer

Reston, VA

... Developer, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, etc.DEGREE (Level Desired)Bachelor's DegreeDEGREE (Focus)Computer Science, Software Engineering ...

Directviz

RPA Developer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The RPA Developer will need a strong background in software development and business process analysis. The RPA Developer will collaborate with functional leads to identify business processes that can ...

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Robotics Software Developer information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$49.1K

$114.4K

$169.8K

How much do robotics software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software developer in Ashburn, VA is $114,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $132,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Robotics Software Developer jobs in Ashburn, VA?

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

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

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

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

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

Robotics Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Software Developer job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,373 per year, or $55 per hour.

Subsea Robotics Engineer-Laurel, Maryland

Glen Echo, MD

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 hours ago

Posted today

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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