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Robotics Software Engineer Jobs in Thornton, CO (NOW HIRING)

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems for defense and public safety missions. The Software Engineer will design, implement, and test software ...

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. The Junior Software Engineer will write ...

Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

Company Overview Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic ... What You'll Do Our Software Engineer will: * Design, implement, and test software features across ...

... robotic, and open surgical procedures. The Software Engineer II is an independent component owner ... who works with moderate guidance, owning defined software scope, planning and executing development ...

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$138K - $186K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems for defense and public safety missions. The Principal Software Engineer will provide technical leadership ...

Senior Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. The Senior Software Engineer will lead ...

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$138K - $186K/yr

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems for defense and public safety missions. They are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical ...

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems for defense and public safety missions. The Staff Software Engineer will provide technical leadership, uphold ...

Showing results 21-40

Robotics Software Engineer information

See Thornton, CO salary details

$61.4K

$127.3K

$183K

How much do robotics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software engineer in Thornton, CO is $127,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,300.00 and $155,400.00 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 cities near Thornton, CO are hiring for Robotics Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Thornton, CO with the most Robotics Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Robotics Software Engineer job openings in Thornton, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,325 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Software Engineer

PDW

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems for defense and public safety missions. The Software Engineer will design, implement, and test software features while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver well-scoped features and improve system performance.
Responsibilities:
• Design, implement, and test software features across one or more product areas.
• Participate actively in code reviews, providing and integrating constructive feedback.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teammates including Product, Design, and QA to deliver well-scoped features.
• Debug and resolve defects in live systems, including occasional field support.
• Contribute to technical documentation and help maintain engineering standards.
• Improve system performance by identifying inefficiencies and proposing targeted optimizations.
• Begin taking ownership of well-scoped technical problems end-to-end.
• Support continuous integration and deployment pipelines.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Solid software development skills in C++, with practical knowledge of modern programming standards and patterns.
• Experience building and shipping features in a professional software environment.
• Familiarity with embedded Linux, Android, or similar platforms.
• Working knowledge of UI development concepts; exposure to QML or Qt is a plus.
• Understanding of software development processes including agile methodologies, code review, and CI/CD.
• Good written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field, with 3–5 years of professional software development experience.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment.
• Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.
• In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Preferred:
• Hands-on experience with Qt, QtWidgets, and QML in a professional setting.
• Experience deploying cross-platform applications (Windows, Linux, and/or Android).
• Background or personal interest in UAVs, drones, robotics, or aerospace systems.
• Proficiency with Git workflows including branching, merging, and code review tooling.
• Experience with CMake, QMake, or other build configuration systems.
Company:
PDW is a defense technology company building multi-mission aerial robotic systems. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Huntsville, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.