ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underwater Robotics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Techoundsllc

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded electronics, power systems, underwater ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a closely related field

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX · On-site

Company Description We are a leading subsea robotics company dedicated to developing cutting-edge autonomous and remotely operated underwater systems. Our team is composed of engineers and scientists ...

Nauticus Robotics

Software Engineer

Webster, TX

Company Description We are a leading subsea robotics company dedicated to developing cutting-edge autonomous and remotely operated underwater systems. Our team is composed of engineers and scientists ...

Kraken Robotics

Software Developer Level 2, SAS

The Software Developer Level II, SAS will work on our real-time SAS platform. This is a high-impact ... Previous experience developing software in the underwater robotics industry * Experience with the ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsUnderwater Robotics Engineer Jobs

Underwater Robotics Engineer information

See salary details

$29K

$105.6K

$169K

How much do underwater robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater robotics engineer in the United States is $105,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $127,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do underwater robotics engineers make?

Underwater robotics engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in robotics, programming, and familiarity with underwater environments can lead to higher compensation, especially in research, defense, or industrial sectors.

What are some common challenges faced by underwater robotics engineers when deploying robots in real-world environments?

Underwater Robotics Engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable ocean currents, varying water visibility, and equipment corrosion due to saltwater exposure. Ensuring reliable wireless communication and precise navigation in deep or murky waters can also be difficult. These engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams—including marine scientists and mechanical engineers—to troubleshoot and adapt robotic systems for diverse underwater missions. Regular field tests and iterative improvements are essential for successful deployments.

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

To thrive as an Underwater Robotics Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or robotics engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with underwater vehicle control systems, CAD software, programming languages (such as C++ or Python), and certifications in ROV/AUV operation are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams help engineers excel in complex environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, deploying, and maintaining reliable robotic systems in challenging underwater conditions.

What is the difference between Underwater Robotics Engineer vs Marine Systems Engineer?

AspectUnderwater Robotics EngineerMarine Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Marine Engineering; specialized training in roboticsBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; certifications in marine systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and maintaining underwater robotic systems in labs or on shipsDeveloping and managing marine vessel systems in shipyards or offshore facilities
Industry UsageResearch institutions, defense, oil & gas, underwater explorationMaritime industry, shipping companies, offshore energy

Underwater Robotics Engineers focus on designing and maintaining robotic systems used underwater, often in research or exploration. Marine Systems Engineers work on the broader systems of ships and offshore platforms. While both roles require engineering credentials and may work in marine environments, their specific focus areas differ, with Underwater Robotics Engineers specializing in robotic technology and Marine Systems Engineers focusing on vessel and platform systems.

What is an underwater robotics engineer?

Underwater Robotics Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain robotic systems that operate in underwater environments. These engineers work on remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and related technologies used for ocean exploration, marine research, offshore energy, and underwater infrastructure inspection. Their responsibilities often include system integration, troubleshooting, programming, and ensuring the reliability of robotic systems in challenging underwater conditions. They typically have backgrounds in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, and strong problem-solving skills.
More about Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs
What states have the most Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs are:
Underwater Robotics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Robotics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,605 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Sr Robotics Engineer

Techoundsllc

Irvine, CA • On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in embedded electronics, power systems, underwater hardware challenges, and a passion for precision engineering in mission-critical environments.
 Key ResponsibilitiesHardware Design & Development
  • Design, prototype, and test electronic systems for professional underwater ROVs, including power electronics, motor controllers (ESCs), sensor interfaces, and communication systems
  • Develop and maintain PCB schematics and layouts using industry-standard EDA tools (e.g., Altium or equivalent)
  • Select and evaluate components for reliability, availability, and cost-effectiveness in marine/underwater environments
  • Design and troubleshoot battery management systems (BMS), including charging, protection, and state-of-charge monitoring circuits

Embedded Systems & Firmware
  • Collaborate with software engineers to define hardware/firmware interfaces and ensure seamless system integration
  • Develop and debug low-level firmware for microcontrollers and FPGAs used in ROV systems
  • Implement and validate communication protocols including RS-232, RS-485, CAN bus, I2C, SPI, and Ethernet/tether communication

Underwater & Marine Systems
  • Design electronics for operation in pressure-rated, waterproof enclosures rated to depths exceeding 1000 meters
  • Work with acoustic systems, including acoustic beacons, modems, and USBL positioning systems
  • Ensure compliance with EMI/EMC requirements and underwater safety standards

Testing, Validation & Documentation
  • Develop and execute comprehensive test plans, including environmental, pressure, and operational testing
  • Investigate and resolve field failures, ESC anomalies, sensor faults, and integration issues through systematic root cause analysis
  • Create and maintain thorough engineering documentation including schematics, BOMs, assembly drawings, and test reports
  • Support production team with manufacturing documentation and quality review processes

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with mechanical engineers, software developers, and production staff to deliver fully integrated ROV systems
  • Support sales and customer service with technical documentation, product demonstrations, and field issue resolution
  • Contribute to product roadmap discussions and new product development initiatives
 Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a closely related field
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in electronics design and development
  • Proven experience with power electronics design, including motor drive circuits, ESCs, and DC power management
  • Proficiency in PCB design using Altium Designer, KiCad, or equivalent EDA software
  • Hands-on experience with embedded microcontrollers (ARM Cortex, AVR, PIC, or similar)
  • Strong understanding of analog circuit design, signal conditioning, and sensor interfacing
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex electronic systems using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other lab instrumentation
  • Experience with technical documentation: schematics, BOMs, engineering change orders, and test procedures
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to explain technical concepts clearly
 Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with underwater marine electronics systems or similar.
  • Knowledge of Linux and embedded programming is a plus.
  • Familiarity with acoustic systems: underwater acoustic beacons, transponders, modems, or USBL/LBL positioning systems a plus.
  • Knowledge of brushless motor drive systems and ESC tuning for underwater thrusters
  • Experience with tether communication systems (fiber optic, twisted pair, or coax) for ROV applications
  • Experience with waterproofing, conformal coating, and potting techniques for marine-grade electronics
  • Knowledge of relevant standards: MIL-SPEC, IPC, or IEC marine electronics standards
 Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary (DOE)
  • Performance-based incentives and bonus program
  • Health, dental, vision and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Company paid holidays (10)