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Virtual Robotics Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Software and Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA

$177K - $210K/yr

The Test Framework is a distributed system that manages physical and virtual test infrastructure ... Experience with test framework technologies, e.g., pytest, pytest-bdd, robot, behave, etc.

Sr. Midrange Engineer - IBMi

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Support monitoring, automation, scheduling, and operations tools from Fortra such as CCSS, Robot ... Virtual HMC. * Work directly with vendor support organizations to troubleshoot and resolve ...

Sr. Midrange Engineer - IBMi

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Support monitoring, automation, scheduling, and operations tools from Fortra such as CCSS, Robot ... Virtual HMC. * Work directly with vendor support organizations to troubleshoot and resolve ...

Sr. Midrange Engineer - IBMi

Ashburn, VA

$106K - $146K/yr

Support monitoring, automation, scheduling, and operations tools from Fortra such as CCSS, Robot ... Virtual HMC. * Work directly with vendor support organizations to troubleshoot and resolve ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience using Python testing frameworks, including PyTest, unittest, nose2, doctest, Robot, tox ... virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided . Work Model Our people-first ...

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Virtual Robotics Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$32.8K

$119.6K

$191.4K

How much do virtual robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual robotics engineer in Washington is $119,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,600.00 and $143,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a robotics engineer work remotely?

Robotics engineers can often work remotely, especially in roles focused on software development, simulation, and design using tools like CAD and programming languages. However, positions requiring hands-on work with hardware, assembly, or testing may require on-site presence. Remote work availability depends on the employer and specific job responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by Virtual Robotics Engineers when collaborating remotely with cross-functional teams?

Virtual Robotics Engineers often work with diverse teams including software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers, many of whom may be distributed across different locations. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment on project requirements, especially when integrating virtual simulations with real-world robotics systems. To address this, engineers frequently use collaborative tools, maintain thorough documentation, and participate in regular sync meetings. Fostering strong teamwork and proactively clarifying technical details can help minimize misunderstandings and keep projects on track.

Is robotics a dead field?

Robotics is an active and growing field with applications in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and research. Robotics engineers develop and maintain automated systems using skills in programming, sensors, and control systems, and demand for these professionals continues to increase as automation advances.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior robotics engineers, including virtual robotics engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills in automation, AI, and programming, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often requires specialized expertise, leadership roles, and working in industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.

What are virtual robotics engineers?

Virtual robotics engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test robotic systems using virtual simulation environments. Instead of building physical robots, they use specialized software to model, program, and analyze robot behavior in a digital space. This allows for rapid prototyping, troubleshooting, and optimization before any physical construction occurs. Virtual robotics engineers often work in fields like automation, manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and research, ensuring that robotic systems function as intended before real-world deployment.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior robotics engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, AI, and machine learning, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation is often found in leadership roles, specialized industries, or companies with significant automation investments, and may include bonuses and stock options.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Robotics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual Robotics Engineer, you need strong proficiency in robotics principles, programming (such as Python, C++, or ROS), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like Gazebo, V-REP, or Unity, along with experience using CAD software and version control systems, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for excelling in virtual team environments and tackling complex tasks. These skills and qualifications are essential for designing, testing, and deploying effective robotic solutions in a virtual setting, ensuring both innovation and reliability.

What is the difference between Virtual Robotics Engineer vs Robotics Software Developer?

AspectVirtual Robotics EngineerRobotics Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Computer Science, or related; certifications in robotics or programmingBachelor's in Computer Science, Robotics, or related; programming certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote or on-site, designing and testing virtual robotics systemsPrimarily software development, often remote or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageRobotics companies, research labs, tech firmsTech companies, startups, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Virtual Robotics Engineer focuses on designing, testing, and simulating robotics systems in virtual environments, often requiring knowledge of robotics hardware and simulation tools. In contrast, a Robotics Software Developer primarily writes and maintains software for robotics applications, emphasizing programming skills. Both roles often overlap in skills and industry usage but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Senior Software Engineer

$121K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 59 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you a seasoned software engineer who enjoys building high-performance systems, working close to the hardware, and solving sophisticated problems with modern tools?
Do you want to apply your experience to challenging problems within national defense?
If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
The Weapon Systems Engineering group at APL is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to prototype, integrate, test, and deploy next-generation software for advanced weapon and missile defense systems, simulations, and test environments. You'll work at the intersection of embedded software, large-scale simulation, and cloud-native deployment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and analysts. Prior defense experience is not required; experience with real-time systems, game engines, high-performance simulations, or systems-of-systems software frameworks is highly relevant.
As a Senior Software Engineer you will...
  • Provide technical expertise for design and implementation of mission-critical software or software architectures across:
    • In-flight / tactical software using a modular open systems architecture (MOSA)
    • Modeling and simulation (including AFSIM and similar frameworks)
    • Systems-of-systems and Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) test environments
  • Develop, build and deploy simulations for:
    • Containerized / Kubernetes environments
    • High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments (e.g., SLURM)
  • Contribute to DevSecOps and GitLab-based workflows
  • Provide technical leadership, mentor others, and collaborate across disciplines

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or related field
  • 5+ years professional software development experience
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++11 or later)
  • Direct experience with Python 3 (tooling, scripting, data processing)
  • Linux development experience (compiling, debugging, shell tools, basic system admin for development)
  • Experience with multi-threaded/concurrent software, including:
  • Threads, async/futures, or similar concurrency approaches
  • Inter-process communication (message queues, JSON, sockets, gRPC, etc.) and performance considerations
  • Experience with Git and branch-and-merge workflows (feature branches, merge/pull requests, code review)
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level 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.

Special Working Conditions: Occasional travel to sponsor, contractor, or government facilities for meetings and reviews. Occasional support of test events involving extended hours, travel aboard ships and travel to field sites.
You'll stand out if you have one or more of the following:
  • Master's degree or higher in CS, CE/EE, Physics, Math, or related field
  • Embedded C/C++ or in-flight/real-time software experience
  • Experience with AFSIM, EADSIM, or similar simulation frameworks (game engines, robotics simulators, custom modeling)
  • Hands-on experience with Docker and/or Podman
  • Experience deploying/operating services on Kubernetes (e.g., Rancher, OpenShift)
  • Deep experience with CMake and/or Conan
  • Practical experience with GitLab CI/CD (authoring and maintaining pipelines)

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
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

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