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

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

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

Techoundsllc

Sr Robotics Engineer

Irvine, CA

$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 · 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 ...

Momentum Power

Robotics AI Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a hands-on field-robotics engineer who integrates commercial platforms, sensors ... • Underwater communication, tether management, pressure-rated hardware, degraded visibility ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsEngineering JobsEngineers 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 Sep 5, 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 marine environments can lead to higher compensation, especially in research or specialized industries.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,605 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

UAV Robotics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Design, fabricate, integrate, and test UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.

  • Design, integrate, and test mission-critical electronics for robotic systems.

  • Plan, execute, and lead local and remote field tests, incorporating feedback to inform design revisions.

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 75 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you driven by robotics and autonomous system development?
Do you enjoy hands-on design, integration, and testing of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)?
Are you interested in applying your skills to meaningful projects that advance the state of uncrewed and autonomous systems?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a UAV Robotics Engineer to help conceive, design, fabricate, integrate, and test a variety of novel UAV systems and payloads. In this role, you will contribute directly to the development of advanced autonomous capabilities and help shape the future of uncrewed systems. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and technicians who are passionate about rapid prototyping, system design and integration, and rigorous field testing. Our team supports critical programs that directly benefit the nation's warfighters while fostering a collaborative, innovative, and fast-paced work environment.
As a UAV Robotics Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include...
  • Designing, fabricating, integrating, and testing UAV airframes, subsystems, and payloads.
  • Designing, integrating and testing mission-critical electronics for a variety of robotic systems.
  • Planning, executing, and leading local and remote field tests, incorporating feedback from end users to inform design revisions.
  • Serving as a technical lead and mentor within a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics or related fields.
  • Have 2+ years of relevant experience working with UAVs, UGVs, UAS, UUVs or related robotic systems.
  • Have experience with the design, integration, and flight testing of both fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs.
  • Are willing and able to support local and remote field test events, including operations in harsh and austere environments.
  • Hold an active Secret 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...
  • Hold an MS or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Have experience developing and flight-testing autonomous UAV behaviors.
  • Are comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and software domains.
  • Have led complex UAV development efforts from concept through deployment.
  • Have integrated perception sensors such as EO/IR cameras, LiDAR, radar, or RF payloads into UAV platforms.
  • Are comfortable making real-time engineering decisions during flight and field operations.
  • Have experience operating UAVs in GPS-degraded, RF-challenged, or denied environments.
  • Have experience with a variety of UAV airframe types (e.g., multirotor, fixed-wing, VTOL, coaxial, traditional helicopter).
  • Have experience with Uncrewed Underwater, Ground or Surface Vehicles (UUV, UGV, USV).
  • Thrive in fast-paced, prototype-driven environments with evolving requirements.

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
$195,000 Annually

What Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply