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Virtual Robotics Engineer Jobs in Huntsville, AL

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

... robot paths, cycle times, and system behavior from concept through final design, including pre-programming and virtual commissioning prior to hardware availability * Transition from offline ...

Support and execute online debugging and commissioning of PLC, HMI, robot, and similar industrial ... Experience with industrial automation simulation software for offline programming or virtual ...

You must be passionate about leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), Autonomy, Robotics (UAS/UAVs ... C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training ...

Virtual Robotics Engineer information

See Huntsville, AL salary details

$28.6K

$104.1K

$166.5K

How much do virtual robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual robotics engineer in Huntsville, AL is $104,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $125,100.00 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 Huntsville, AL? The most popular types of Robotics Engineer jobs in Huntsville, AL are:
Infographic showing various Virtual Robotics Engineer job openings in Huntsville, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,055 per year, or $50 per hour.
Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Blue Origin

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

About This Role

Blue Origin's Factory Automation team is part of the Advanced Manufacturing organization within Operations - serving as the in-house automation integrator responsible for designing, building, and deploying the custom equipment and systems that enable scalable, repeatable production across Blue Origin's manufacturing business units. We build manufacturing capability from the ground up - developing automated solutions that directly drive the delivery of Blue Origin's products across current and future programs.

We are looking for an experienced Automation Controls Engineer who brings deep hands-onexpertisein industrial controls design and automation systems integration - someone who thrives in a build-it-and-commission-it environment, moves with urgency, and takes full technical ownership from concept through production ramp-up. This role goes beyond pure controls engineering: you will drive projects end-to-end, navigating R&D, design, build, installation, and commissioning while coordinating across a broad range of stakeholders and disciplines. You will define control system architectures, set technical standards, and deliver solutions that work in the real world - including challenging product design teams to design for automated manufacturing when requirements complicate scalable automation. A passion for our mission - and for the discipline of building systems that work - is essential.

Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with applications engineers in the development of conceptual automated manufacturing equipment, providing controls architecture input and feedback from concept through detailed design

  • Design control system architectures including network topology, I/O distribution, safety systems, and communication protocols

  • Lead industrial controls and electrical design of bespoke automation systems

  • Develop offline simulations of automated systems - ranging from discrete work cells to fully automated product lines - tovalidatecontrol logic, robot paths, cycle times, and system behavior from concept through final design, including pre-programming and virtual commissioning prior to hardware availability

  • Transition from offline development to online debugging and commissioning of PLC, HMI, robot, and similar industrial controls programs from scratch

  • Integrate auxiliary equipment, machines, and tools into unified control systems

  • Work with panel fabricators and field installation teams; provide technical support during system integration and commissioning

  • Lead factory and site acceptance testing

  • Lead the build, installation, commissioning, and start-up of automated manufacturing systems

  • Create and deliver controls documentation packages including sequence of operations, I/O lists, network diagrams, and program documentation

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Controls, or related engineering field
  • Minimum 6 years of hands-on experience developing and integrating industrial controls and automation systems from scratch - including PLC and HMI programming as core competencies, control system architecture design (network topology, I/O distribution, safety systems, multi-platform communication protocols), and broad exposure to industrial automation platforms such as robots, material handling systems (gantries, AGVs, conveyors), CNC machine integration, NDT, assembly, testing, and process tools (torque, welding, grinding, or similar)
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret and review electrical and mechanical drawings
  • Experience with industrial safety system design including functional safety devices, safety PLCs, and safety-rated circuits
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with industrial automation and machine safety standards including IEC 61131, ANSI B11, NFPA 79, RIA R15.06, and functional safety standards (IEC 62061 / ISO 13849), including experience conducting or supporting formal risk assessments
  • Experienceutilizingindustrial automation simulation software for offline programming, virtual commissioning, and full production line simulation - including tools such as Plant Simulate, Process Simulate, Visual Components,KUKA.Sim,RobotStudio, or similar
  • Experience with industrial machine vision systems, including custom application development using platforms such as Cognex - encompassing out-of-the-box configuration, novel programming, and machine learning (ML)-based inspection and guidance solutions
  • Experience building,modifying, and troubleshooting electrical control panels
  • Experience with electrical design for industrial control systems using AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar electrical CAD platforms
  • Demonstrated history of delivering custom automated manufacturing systems from concept through production ramp-up

Compensation Range for:

WA applicants is $197,529.00 - $276,539.55

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000