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Robotics Software Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lightspeed

Senior Robotics Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Robotics Software Development * Develop and optimize ROS2-based control architectures for multi‑robot coordination in manufacturing cells * Implement motion planning and trajectory optimization ...

Automationtechies

Field Robotics Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Your work will focus on helping customers successfully set up and operate their systems while you build strong hands-on experience in ROS2, Linux, Docker, and robotics software workflows. What You'll ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with robotics curricula and competition platforms including FIRST, VEX, and Arduino-based programs, and common challenges such as debugging hardware-software integration, understanding ...

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All JobsRobotics Software JobsRobotics Software Jobs in Chicago, IL

Robotics Software information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$61.8K

$128.3K

$184.4K

How much do robotics software jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics software in Chicago, IL is $128,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $156,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a robotics software engineer?

Robotics software engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the software that controls and powers robotic systems. They work on programming robots to perform specific tasks, integrating sensors and actuators, and ensuring that robots can interact safely and effectively with their environment. Their role often involves using programming languages like C++, Python, and ROS (Robot Operating System), as well as collaborating with hardware engineers and other specialists to create functional and intelligent robots.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotics software engineer?

To thrive as a Robotics Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (especially in C++ and Python), a solid background in algorithms, control systems, and a relevant degree in computer science, robotics, or engineering. Familiarity with robotics middleware (such as ROS), simulation tools (like Gazebo), and version control systems is typically required, and certifications in robotics or machine learning can be advantageous. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and debugging intricate systems. These skills and qualities ensure the development of reliable, innovative robotic solutions that meet real-world needs and function safely.

What are some common challenges faced by robotics software engineers when integrating hardware and software components?

Robotics software engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that software systems interact reliably with diverse hardware components, such as sensors, actuators, and controllers. Synchronizing real-time data processing, handling latency, and troubleshooting hardware-software mismatches can require creative problem-solving and thorough testing. Collaboration with mechanical and electrical engineers is essential, as is staying up-to-date with evolving robotics frameworks and communication protocols. Effective documentation and version control are also crucial to manage complex integration efforts.

What is the difference between Robotics Software vs Robotics Engineer?

AspectRobotics SoftwareRobotics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Software Engineering, or related; programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Robotics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; programming and hardware knowledge
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, labs, simulation environmentsDesign, build, test robotic systems; often in labs or manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research labs, automation firmsManufacturing, automation, research institutions

Robotics Software focuses on developing the code and algorithms that enable robots to perform tasks, primarily working in software development environments. Robotics Engineers design and build robotic systems, integrating hardware and software. While both roles require programming skills, Robotics Software specialists concentrate on coding, whereas Robotics Engineers handle system design and integration.

Is robotics a high paying career?

Robotics software engineering is generally considered a high-paying career, with salaries often exceeding the national average for software developers. Factors such as experience, education, and specialized skills in programming languages like C++ or Python, as well as knowledge of control systems and hardware integration, can influence earning potential.

What careers are in robotics software?

Careers in robotics software include roles such as robotics software engineer, automation programmer, control systems developer, and embedded systems engineer. These positions typically require skills in programming languages like C++ and Python, knowledge of robotics frameworks such as ROS, and experience with hardware integration and real-time systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Software jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Robotics Software jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Robotics Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Software job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,277 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Senior Robotics Engineer

Lightspeed

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

About LightSpeed

LightSpeed Build Technologies is revolutionizing the construction industry through AI-powered robotics. Our flagship systems—BRUTE for automated wall panel manufacturing and DEX for on-site collaborative construction—are addressing the global housing crisis by delivering unprecedented speed, precision, and affordability in homebuilding.

Position Overview

As a Senior Robotics Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy the core robotic control systems powering LightSpeed’s construction automation platforms. You will work hands‑on with industrial robots, developing motion planning algorithms, real‑time control software, and sensor integration systems that enable our BRUTE and DEX platforms to achieve sub‑millimeter precision in demanding construction environments. This role demands deep robotics expertise, strong software skills, and the ability to bridge the gap between simulation and real‑world deployment.

What you’ll work on:

Robotics Software Development
  • Develop and optimize ROS2-based control architectures for multi‑robot coordination in manufacturing cells
  • Implement motion planning and trajectory optimization using MoveIt2 and custom planners for complex assembly tasks
  • Design real‑time pose synchronization systems for coordinated multi‑robot operations
  • Build and maintain robot driver interfaces for Hyundai industrial robots and collaborative robot arms
  • Develop collision avoidance and safety monitoring systems for human‑robot collaborative environments
Simulation & Validation
  • Build high‑fidelity simulation environments using MuJoCo, IsaacSIM, and Gazebo for system validation before deployment
  • Develop digital twin frameworks linking physical robot cells to simulation models for predictive analysis
  • Create automated testing pipelines for robotics software using hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulation
  • Validate control algorithms in simulation before deploying to production robot cells
Sensor Integration & Perception
  • Integrate and calibrate sensor systems including LIDAR, depth cameras, force/torque sensors, and encoders
  • Develop sensor fusion algorithms for precise robot localization and workpiece tracking
  • Implement real‑time quality monitoring using sensor feedback during automated assembly operations
  • Design calibration procedures and drift compensation for production environments
System Integration & Deployment
  • Deploy robotic control systems to production cells and troubleshoot field issues
  • Integrate robot control with LightSpeed Overwatch monitoring platform via Python/FastAPI
  • Optimize robot cycle times, path planning, and operational efficiency in production
  • Support scaling from current cell deployments to multi‑site operations
Required Qualifications: Core Robotics Expertise
  • 5+ years of hands‑on robotics engineering with industrial or collaborative robot systems
  • Deep proficiency in ROS2 architecture, node lifecycle management, and real‑time communication patterns
  • Hands‑on experience with MoveIt2 or MoveIt Pro for motion planning and manipulation
  • Strong understanding of robot kinematics, dynamics, and control theory
  • Experience with physics‑based robotics simulators: MuJoCo, IsaacSIM, or Gazebo
Software Development
  • Strong programming in Python and C++ for real‑time robotics applications
  • Experience with real‑time operating systems and deterministic control loops
  • Proficiency with Git, CI/CD pipelines, and modern development workflows
  • Understanding of industrial networking protocols (EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP)
Preferred Qualifications:
  • MS or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • Experience with industrial platforms: Hyundai, FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or Universal Robots
  • Background in construction technology, automated manufacturing, or prefabrication
  • Experience with real‑time Linux (PREEMPT_RT) and low‑latency control systems
  • Contributions to open‑source robotics projects (ROS2, MoveIt, or related)
  • Published research or patents in robotics, motion planning, or control systems
Why Join LightSpeed:
  • Solve hard robotics problems: multi‑robot coordination, sub‑millimeter precision, real‑world deployment at scale
  • Direct impact: your control systems power robots that build homes and address the housing crisis
  • Cutting‑edge stack: ROS2, MuJoCo, IsaacSIM, MoveIt2, and custom industrial automation
  • Hands‑on culture: work directly with physical robots in our manufacturing facility
  • Competitive compensation including salary, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits
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