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Robotics Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Robotics Software Engineer (Perception & Localization) Job Location: Seattle, WA or San Francisco, CA (Onsite) Job Type: Full-Time Very Important: * Must work onsite in Seattle, WA or San Francisco ...

Robotics Software Engineer Job Location: San Jose, CA Job Type: Contract * Develop and maintain robotic software frameworks that interface with physical robotic hardware and perception systems.

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We are seeking a Robotics Software Engineer to build the software that powers robot behavior in the real world. In this role, you will develop, integrate, and improve production-grade robotics ...

We are seeking a Robotics Software Engineer to build the software that powers robot behavior in the real world. In this role, you will develop, integrate, and improve production-grade robotics ...

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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 ...

Overview Sorting Robotics is a fast-growing company that specializes in automating the cannabis industry. We have a talented and self-motivated team of mechanical, electrical, and software developers ...

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Robotics Software Engineer

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

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 ...

Overview Sorting Robotics is a fast-growing company that specializes in automating the cannabis industry. We have a talented and self-motivated team of mechanical, electrical, and software developers ...

Robotics Software Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท Hybrid

$60 - $70/hr

Robotics Software Engineer We are seeking a Robotics Software Engineer to help build the infrastructure, testing frameworks, and system integration tools that support advanced robotics and ...

Robotics Software Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท Hybrid

$60 - $70/hr

Robotics Software Engineer We are seeking a Robotics Software Engineer to help build the infrastructure, testing frameworks, and system integration tools that support advanced robotics and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Robotics Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.2K

$122.9K

$176.7K

How much do robotics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software engineer in California is $122,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, robotics, and mathematics, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in algorithm development. Proficiency with programming languages like C++, Python, and ROS (Robot Operating System), as well as familiarity with simulation tools and version control systems, is essential. Problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and adapting to evolving technologies. These skills and qualities are vital for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable robotic systems that perform effectively in real-world environments.

What Does a Robotics Software Engineer Do?

The job duties of a robotics software engineer are working to develop software for robot control and automation. In this job, your responsibilities include working on an embedded system that controls automated equipment. You may build new software or test, improve, or debug current software. Most robotics software engineers work for the manufacturing industry and focus on robots that companies use in product production. You may work in other fields that use robotics as well. This job may include responsibilities such as developing a user interface that non-technical employees can use to set up the equipment.

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

AspectRobotics Software EngineerMechatronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Computer Science, or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Mechatronics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; multidisciplinary knowledge
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, robotics labs, research facilitiesDesign, integrate mechanical and electronic systems, often in manufacturing or automation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, robotics firms, research institutionsManufacturing, automation, aerospace, automotive industries

While both roles involve robotics, a Robotics Software Engineer primarily focuses on developing software for robotic systems, whereas a Mechatronics Engineer designs and integrates mechanical, electronic, and software components. The roles often overlap but differ in their core focus areas and skill sets.

What are some common challenges faced by Robotics Software Engineers when integrating software with hardware systems?

Robotics Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring seamless communication between software algorithms and physical hardware components. These can include dealing with sensor noise, managing real-time constraints, debugging hardware-software mismatches, and ensuring reliable performance in unpredictable environments. Close collaboration with electrical and mechanical engineers is essential to quickly resolve integration issues and to test software on physical robots. Adapting to rapid hardware changes and troubleshooting in live environments require strong problem-solving skills and effective cross-disciplinary teamwork.

What does a Robotics Software Engineer do?

A Robotics Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains the software that controls and powers robots. This includes writing code for robot perception, control algorithms, and integration with hardware components. They work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless interaction between the robot's physical and digital systems. Their work often involves programming in languages such as C++, Python, or ROS (Robot Operating System) and testing robots in real-world or simulated environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Robotics Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Robotics Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,893 per year, or $59.1 per hour.
Robotics Software Engineer

Robotics Software Engineer

Oraapps Inc

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Robotics Software Engineer (Perception & Localization)

Job Location: Seattle, WA or San Francisco, CA (Onsite)

Job Type: Full-Time

Very Important:

  • Must work onsite in Seattle, WA or San Francisco, CA
  • 2+ Years of Robotics Software Engineering Experience Required
  • Experience building software for real-world robotic or edge systems
  • Experience with Computer Vision and Sensor Fusion
  • Startup experience mandatoryย 
Must Have:
  • 2+ years of Robotics Software Engineering experience
  • Experience developing software for robotic or edge devices
  • Strong Computer Vision experience for robotics applications
  • Experience with Perception and Localization systems
  • Sensor Fusion experience (GNSS, IMU, Depth Sensors)
  • Production software deployment experience
  • Experience working in fast-paced engineering environments
  • Strong software development skills
  • High ownership mindset and ability to work independently
  • Experience using AI coding tools such as Claude
Preferred:
  • Experience at early-stage, high-growth startups
  • Experience at companies such as Waymo, Cruise, Zoox, Skydio, Flock Safety, or similar autonomy companies
  • Strong robotics perception architecture experience
  • Experience deploying software to field-operated autonomous systems
  • Top-tier academic background
Keywords:

Robotics, Perception, Localization, Computer Vision, Sensor Fusion, GNSS, IMU, Depth Sensors, Edge Computing, Autonomous Systems, Robotics Software Engineer, Perception Engineer, Localization Engineer, AI, Claude, Agricultural Robotics, Startup, Waymo, Cruise, Zoox, Skydio.