What does a Robotics Engineer do?

A Robotics Engineer solves technical problems with the creation of new machinery - robotics.

Robotics Engineers are found in a variety of industries - from automotive to healthcare to consumer products, to food and agriculture.

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What is the typical background of a Robotics Engineer?

A Robotics Engineer will typically need at least a few years of engineering experience, and/or experience working with a variety of sensor or robotics. A Robotics Engineer may also have an advanced degree, like a Masters or PhD, in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.

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What are some of the typical responsibilities of a Robotics Engineer?

To design new robotics features or robotic products: Robotics Engineers are primarily responsible for crafting and designing new robotics systems, working on or with a team of other engineers to develop.
To iterate on existing features: Robotics Engineers may also be responsible for iterating and improving existing features of robotics projects, from conception through design through testing.
Constant and consistent testing: Once designs or models are established, Robotics Engineers will need to be comfortable designing their own testing procedures, and sticking to them as they debug features or mechanisms of their designs.
Data analysis: After testing, Robotics Engineers will need to understand how to read and interpret their data - and how to pull insights from their data. Based on performance, or the intended use of the machinery - how can their designs improve?

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What are some of the skills a successful Robotics Engineer should have?

Processes and automations: A Robotics Engineer will need experience with establishing processes and automations for their work - for example, how different sensors or functions within robotics “talk” to each other - and then being able to repeat these processes with automations.
Material science: Knowledge of which materials to use while building, and how materials will perform over time, is critical for the success of any robotics project.
Basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics: Background studies in mathematics and statistics may be useful for Robotics Engineers who are beginning to develop their skills, as Robotics Engineers may need a basic sense of how algorithms work and how to design them.
Basic programming skills: A Robotics Engineer may also need to have some experience using C++, Linux and Python.
CAD skills: Robotics Engineers will likely need a basic understanding of CAD - how to draw and create new designs digitally.

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What does a typical Robotics Engineer job description look like?

Job descriptions will vary based on the company, but could look something like:

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About the role at XYZ company:

We are looking for a robotics engineer to design and build robotics applications and devices. You’ll use computer-aided modeling to create drafts, and perform tests on the robots to ensure safety and quality.

For this job, you should have a degree in an engineering discipline. You should have deep knowledge of flexible automation and computer systems, and also possess an aptitude in cost and efficiency optimization.

If you also have a great deal of resourcefulness and a vision about what your machines can do, we’d like to meet you.

Responsibilities

Conduct research to determine the parameters of a robotic application
Design robotic systems from start to finish
Develop and implement software that will control robots
Create prototypes and work on necessary components (e.g. microprocessors)
Develop cost-effective and efficient processes to produce the machines
Perform integration tests and quality control
Apply machine learning techniques
Create complete documentation for robotic systems
Monitor the use of robotic systems and optimize their functionality
Troubleshoot defects in the robot design
Keep abreast of advancements in robotics and relevant fields of engineering

Requirements and skills

Previous experience as a robotics engineer or similar role
Well-versed in computer science, applied physics, and mechanics
Excellent knowledge of CAD/CAM software
Knowledge of cost, efficiency, and productivity optimization methods
Ability to develop and evaluate integrated systems
An analytical mind
Resourcefulness
Outstanding communication skills
Degree in Engineering, Computer Science or similar field

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What can a Robotics Engineer expect for salary?

While salaries vary based on company stage, seniority, location and many other factors, Robotics Engineers can expect to see a salary between $150,000-$250,000 annually. This may vary based on equity offered, cash bonus structures, or other forms of compensation.

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