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Robots Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Robotics Engineer The Opportunity: Support the research and development of unmanned systems across multiple operational domains and mission areas. Function at the intersection ofsoftware and hardware ...

Robotics Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... robots, control systems, and competition robotics platforms. Ability to explain sensor integration, PID control, gear ratios, and autonomous navigation while preparing students for robotics ...

Showing results 21-40

Robots information

What is the difference between Robots vs Automation Technicians?

AspectRobotsAutomation Technicians
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required, but knowledge of robotics and programming helpsOften requires technical certifications or associate degrees in automation or electronics
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, warehousesManufacturing facilities, maintenance workshops, industrial settings
Job RoleDesign, programming, and maintenance of robotic systemsInstallation, troubleshooting, and repair of automated equipment and systems

Robots are physical machines used in automation processes, while Automation Technicians are skilled workers who install, maintain, and repair these systems. Robots are the tools, and technicians are the professionals ensuring their proper operation in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by robotics engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Robotics engineers often collaborate closely with professionals from diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, software development, and electronics. One common challenge is ensuring effective communication across specialties, as team members may use different technical languages and approaches. Balancing competing priorities—like hardware constraints versus software requirements—can also be complex. Successful robotics engineers are proactive about seeking clarification, sharing updates, and working collaboratively toward integrated solutions, which helps keep projects on track and fosters innovation.

What is a robot?

Robots are programmable machines capable of carrying out a series of actions automatically, often designed to perform tasks that are repetitive, dangerous, or require precision. They can be autonomous or remotely controlled and are used in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Modern robots often utilize artificial intelligence to interact with their environment and learn from experience. Their applications continue to expand as technology advances.

What careers are in robotics?

Careers in robotics include roles such as robotics engineer, automation technician, control systems engineer, and research scientist. These positions often require knowledge of programming, mechanical design, and electronics, and may involve working with tools like CAD software and robotic simulation platforms.

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

To thrive as a Robotics Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree in engineering or robotics. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or ROS), CAD software, and robotics simulation tools is crucial, along with certifications like Certified Robotics Programmer. Problem-solving ability, teamwork, and strong communication skills are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important to design, build, and maintain complex robotic systems that meet industry needs and ensure safe, efficient operation.

What kind of jobs can robots do?

Robots can perform a variety of jobs including manufacturing, assembly, packaging, and material handling in factories. They are also used in logistics, healthcare for surgery assistance, and in service roles like cleaning and customer service, often requiring programming skills and technical maintenance knowledge.

How do I get a job in robotics?

To get a job in robotics, candidates typically need a background in engineering, computer science, or related fields, along with skills in programming, mechanical design, and control systems. Gaining experience through internships, projects, or certifications in robotics platforms and tools like ROS can improve employability. A bachelor's degree is often required, with advanced roles favoring a master's or Ph.D.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Robots jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Robots job openings:
Infographic showing various Robots job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

2027 BS/MS Graduate Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about pursuing groundbreaking engineering and research to solve today's greatest challenges in robotics?
Do you enjoy working on meaningful interdisciplinary problems?
Do you thrive in a collaborative and creative environment?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
If you are graduating with a Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics, we'd love to have you join our team! The Robotics Group in the Research and Exploratory Development Department is an interdisciplinary team of researchers and engineers that is inventing the future across the broad spectrum of robotics, with applications that strengthen national defense, advance space exploration, improve healthcare, and address critical challenges facing the nation. You can learn more about our current research at https://www.jhuapl.edu/isc.
We are seeking a highly skilled, highly motivated robotics engineer to join us in taking intelligent robotic systems from concept to reality. We are a multidisciplinary team focused on groundbreaking impacts in the areas of robotics control, embodied agentic AI, multi-agent collaboration, robotic perception, human-robot teaming, and novel robot design. Our team is committed to excellence in research that has real-world impact. Successful members of our team tend to be creative problem solvers who are comfortable working at the edge of their comfort zone. We strive to foster an environment that welcomes a variety of backgrounds and professional experience as we aim to solve the hardest problems in robotics.
As a member of our team, your primary responsibility will be defining and developing new robotic systems and algorithmic solutions to address relevant challenges. Current research areas include generative AI for robotic applications, advanced robotic control, robot perception & reasoning, novel robotic systems, human-robot teaming, multi-agent coordination, and safe/assured autonomy. Depending on your expertise, you will develop algorithms, develop and integrate software stacks, design and fabricate hardware, integrate robotic systems, support field tests, and lead small teams. You will have the opportunity to publish your work and present the results to the scientific community, external collaborators, and/or government sponsors. APL also has opportunities for staff at all experience levels to propose and work on their own ideas.
Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field such as Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Have experience in robotics or robotics applications of AI, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or mathematics.
  • Are skilled in one or more programming languages and robotics frameworks, particularly ROS2, Python and C++.
  • Are able to obtain a full DoD Secret-level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have experience with technical writing and have previously published your work in the scientific literature.
  • Have experience developing, simulating, and demonstrating algorithms for control of robotic systems.
  • Have experience developing AI software that integrates with hardware such as robotic platforms, sensors, or mechanisms.
  • Have experience designing, fabricating, and integrating robotics hardware.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually

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