1

Space Robotics Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Using robotics, computational design, and AI, our systems turn today's e-waste into resilient, data ... our industrial space in Sterling, VA, down the road from the largest data center market in the ...

Using robotics, computational design, and AI, our systems turn today's e-waste into resilient, data ... our industrial space in Sterling, VA, down the road from the largest data center market in the ...

Senior Robotics Engineer

Sterling, VA

$103.80K - $142.60K/yr

... space in Chantilly, VA, down the road from the largest data center market in the world. Our ... of robots, CNC milling machines, 3D printers, and all the tools needed to build and test our ...

... space in Chantilly, VA, down the road from the largest data center market in the world. Our ... of robots, CNC milling machines, 3D printers, and all the tools needed to build and test our ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$177.50K - $210.30K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer We are seeking a talented and motivated Space Systems Software ... Robotics, Physics, Telecommunications Engineering, Applied Mathematics, etc. Most contracts allow ...

DEGREE (Level Desired)Bachelor's DegreeDEGREE (Focus)Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Space Robotics information

See Washington salary details

$95.1K

$108.7K

$131.9K

How much do space robotics jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for space robotics in Washington is $108,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,900.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Space Robotics job?

A Space Robotics job involves designing, building, and programming robotic systems for use in space exploration and operations. These robots assist with tasks such as satellite servicing, planetary exploration, and habitat construction in space. Engineers in this field work on robotic arms, autonomous rovers, and humanoid robots for space missions. The role requires expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, control systems, and aerospace engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Space Robotics position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Space Robotics, you need strong expertise in robotics engineering, mechanical and electrical systems, software programming (such as Python, C++), and a degree in engineering or a related STEM field. Familiarity with simulation tools (like ROS or MATLAB), spacecraft systems, and safety certifications such as ITAR compliance or NASA-specific training are often required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills set professionals apart in this field. These qualifications are crucial for developing reliable robotic systems that operate in challenging and high-stakes space environments.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Space Robotics?

A typical day for a professional in Space Robotics often involves designing, testing, and troubleshooting robotic systems intended for use in space missions. You might spend time collaborating with multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists, analyzing data from simulations or hardware tests, and refining software algorithms for robotic autonomy. Depending on the project cycle, your work could shift between hands-on prototyping, system integration, and writing technical documentation or reports. Regular collaboration with mission planners, systems engineers, and possibly international partners is common, offering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Space Robotics jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Space Robotics jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Space Robotics jobs in Washington? For Space Robotics jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Space Robotics jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Space Robotics job openings:
Infographic showing various Space Robotics job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,729 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
2026 PhD Graduate - Robotics Group

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

Are you passionate about pursuing groundbreaking 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 Ph.D. degree inComputer 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 that is inventing the future across the broad spectrum of robotics, with applications that strengthen national defense, improve healthcare, advance space exploration, and address critical challenges facing the nation.You can learn more about our current research atwww.jhuapl.edu/isc.

We are seeking a highly skilled, highly motivated scientists and engineers 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, machine perception, AI, multi-agent teaming, assured autonomy, 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 technical comfort zone.

As a member of our team, your primary responsibility will be defining and developing novel robotic concepts, systems, and algorithmic solutions to address relevant challenges. Current research areas include advanced robotic control, robot perception & reasoning, generative AI for robotic applications, novel robotic systems, human-robot teaming, multi-agent coordination, and safe/assured autonomy behaviors. Depending on your expertise, you will develop and implement control algorithms and AI techniques, design and fabricate robotic systems, and lead research teams. You will have the opportunity to publish your work, and present the results to the scientific community, external collaborators, and/or government sponsors. You will also have the opportunity to propose and work on your own research ideas.


Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:

  • Have a Ph.D. ina relevant field such as 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 able to obtaina 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 developing, simulating, and demonstrating algorithms for control of robotic systems.
  • Have experience developing AI/ML software that integrates with hardware such as robotic platforms, sensors, or medical devices.
  • Have experience designing, fabricating, and integrating robotics hardware.
  • Are skilled in one or more programming languages, particularly Python and C++.
  • Have demonstrated proficiency in using one or more common robotics or AI libraries such as ROS, TensorFlow, Pytorch, and OpenCV.

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 athttp://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 contactAccommodations@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
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually