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Robotics Software Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

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Robotics Software Engineer information

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$65.5K

$136K

$195.5K

How much do robotics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software engineer in Massachusetts is $135,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,600.00 and $166,000.00 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.

Can a software engineer work in robotics?

A robotics software engineer develops and maintains software for robotic systems, often using programming languages like C++ and Python, and working with hardware interfaces and control algorithms. This role typically requires knowledge of robotics frameworks such as ROS and experience with embedded systems or sensors. Software engineers with these skills can work in robotics companies, research labs, or automation 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.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics is an active and growing field with ongoing advancements in automation, AI integration, and sensor technologies. Robotics Software Engineers are in demand across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, requiring skills in programming languages like C++ and Python, as well as familiarity with robotic frameworks like ROS.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior robotics software engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming languages like C++ and Python, and expertise in areas such as machine learning or autonomous systems can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, specialized knowledge, and working in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior robotics software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in AI, machine learning, or embedded systems, and often working in high-demand industries or at large tech companies can earn $500,000 or more annually. Compensation at this level typically includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or leadership roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What job categories do people searching Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Robotics Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Robotics Software Engineer job openings:
Systems Software Test Lead - Robotics

Systems Software Test Lead - Robotics

ALTEN Technology USA

Boston, MA

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

We're ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to life—from advancing space exploration and life-saving medical devices to building autonomous electric vehicles. With 3,000+ experts across North America, we partner with leading companies in aerospace, medical devices, robotics, automotive, commercial vehicles, EVs, rail, and more.

As part of the global ALTEN Group—57,000+ engineers in 30 countries—we deliver across the entire product development cycle, from consulting to full project outsourcing.

When you join ALTEN Technology USA, you'll collaborate on some of the world's toughest engineering challenges, supported by mentorship, career growth opportunities, and comprehensive benefits. We take pride in fostering a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

As Systems Software Test Lead you will be responsible for;

  • Lead system‑level verification and validation of robotics software systems, including autonomy, perception, motion planning, and controls integration.
  • Define and own end‑to‑end system integration and test strategies for robotics software stacks, ensuring validation of complex, multi-service capabilities across platforms.
  • Develop comprehensive test plans and validation frameworks for autonomous system behaviors, including trajectory generation, navigation, and mission‑level functionality.
  • Provide technical leadership to distributed test and software validation teams, enabling execution of test plans and ensuring coverage, quality, and traceability.
  • Operate with a high degree of autonomy to identify gaps in test coverage, resolve ambiguity, and drive readiness across integration and validation phases.
  • Collaborate closely with robotics software engineers to validate system performance across key domains such as motion planning, path optimization, localization, and control systems.
  • Lead system integration efforts across software services, APIs, and middleware layers, ensuring correct interaction between perception, planning, and execution components.
  • Analyze system behavior and debug software integration issues, identifying root causes across distributed services and real-time system components.
  • Utilize scripting (e.g., Python) to support test automation, log analysis, simulation validation, and debugging of robotic system behavior.
  • Validate robotics software in lab or simulated environments, including running integrated systems, executing scenarios, and measuring performance against KPIs.
  • Support testing and observability of cloud‑connected or distributed robotics systems, including familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS) for data capture, diagnostics, and system monitoring.
  • Incorporate system‑level risks and failure modes into validation strategies, ensuring robust coverage for edge cases and real‑world operating conditions.
  • Contribute to development of scalable, repeatable test frameworks and processes for robotics software validation.
  • Maintain alignment between requirements, system architecture, and validation coverage using systems engineering and/or MBSE practices.
  • Communicate system readiness, risks, and validation results clearly to engineering leadership and program stakeholders.

Qualifications;

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related technical field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience in systems engineering, software integration, or test leadership focused on robotics, autonomy, or complex distributed software systems.
  • Proven experience leading system‑level software integration and test strategy for robotics or autonomous systems.
  • Strong understanding of robotics software architectures, including motion planning, navigation, control systems, and distributed service-based design.
  • Experience operating as a Test Lead, enabling execution through teams rather than individually performing all testing tasks.
  • Hands‑on experience debugging system‑level software issues across integrated stacks (perception, planning, control, infrastructure).
  • Proficiency in scripting (e.g., Python) for test automation, data analysis, and system debugging.
  • Experience working with cloud‑integrated robotics or distributed systems (AWS or similar platforms).
  • Strong understanding of requirements traceability, system validation, and full lifecycle testing.
  • Experience working in Agile development environments supporting multi‑team software delivery.
  • Ability to operate independently in fast‑paced, high‑ambiguity environments while driving technical outcomes.
  • Strong communication skills with ability to guide engineers and test teams across disciplines.

Preferred Qualifications;

  • Experience with autonomous mobile robots, robotic manipulation systems, or industrial automation platforms.
  • Familiarity with simulation environments, digital twins, or robotics testing frameworks.
  • Experience validating AI/ML‑enabled robotic behaviors (perception, decision-making, optimization).
  • Exposure to middleware or robotics frameworks (e.g., ROS/ROS2 or similar architectures).
  • Background in large‑scale, multi‑team robotics software programs.

Salary Range: $150,000 - $190,000

Location: Onsite in North Reading, MA

The actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy.

Please beware of job seeker scams and see this important notice on our careers page for more information about our recruiting process.

Compliance Notice: Alten USA is a federal contractor subject to the requirements of the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Executive Order 11246. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Drug Screening Requirement: As a federal contractor, Alten USA maintains a drug-free workplace. All candidates selected for employment will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of hire.