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Robotics Software Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Saildrone

Senior Software Engineer, Robotics

Alameda, CA · On-site

$176K - $226K/yr

THE POSITION Saildrone is seeking a Senior Robotics Software Engineer to join our Core Vehicle Systems team. You will play a critical role in integrating new sensors and hardware subsystems into our ...

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All JobsRobotics Software Engineer JobsRobotics Software Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Robotics Software Engineer information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$73.5K

$152.5K

$219.2K

How much do robotics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software engineer in Berkeley, CA is $152,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $186,100.00 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.
More about Robotics Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
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What job categories do people searching Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Robotics Software Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Robotics Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Robotics Software Engineer job openings:
Robotics Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Software Engineer job openings in Berkeley, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $152,471 per year, or $73.3 per hour.

Lead Robotics Software Engineer

Dapster, Inc

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 hours ago

Job description

[Note: we are currently fully staffed for this role, but expect to be hiring for additional team members in the near future. So, we likely won't review/respond quickly, but we WILL look here first when we crank up the hiring machine again.]
Dapster is looking for a Lead Robotics Software Engineer to join our small-but-powerful team. This is an impact opportunity -- we're very much still an early-stage startup, and you will be working on our foundational technology and products.
About Dapster: Dapster is focused on bringing AI-fueled robotic picking solutions to market. We recently landed a large pilot with a top retailer -- effectively dilution-free funding to develop our core technology.
If you want to do interesting work with a sharp, experienced and humble team, and share in the upside that comes with joining at the earliest stages, we'd love to talk to you. The quick details:
What will you do? Broad ownership of development and refinement of key Dapster robot functionality (we can go into much more detail live).
What are we looking for?
  • Excellent C/C++ and Python programming skills in a Linux environment.
  • Deep understanding of motion planning and navigation algorithms and libraries like MoveIt! and nav_stack.
  • Familiarity with OpenCV or similar computer vision libraries.
  • A strong academic and work record (e.g. BS EE/ME/Robotics with 5+ years of experience or MS EE/ME/Robotics with 3+ years of experience) or commensurate work experience

Other nice-to-have's:
  • Prototyping skills.
  • Familiarity with simulation packages like IsaacSim.
  • Experience as part of the development team for at least 1 full version of a shipping robot.

Dapster is a remote-friendly, hybrid workplace. We maintain a development lab in Palo Alto, CA, and occasionally travel to client sites (mainly Phoenix, AZ). Roles requiring interaction with our physical robots likely entail more in-office work than not. Other roles can be structured to your preferences.
Interested in learning more? Let's start a conversation -- you can apply directly below or reach out to Scott (one of our founders) with any questions at scott@dapster.ai.

Apply