How to Be Robotics Automation Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 7, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The rise of robotics automation engineers has had a significant impact on the manufacturing industry. As these engineers develop increasingly efficient robotic automation systems, it has led to faster production cycles, higher production output, and improved product quality. This has in turn resulted in cost savings for manufacturers, allowing them to reduce labor costs and increase their competitive advantage.

Furthermore, robotics automation engineers are also helping to reduce workplace injuries, as robots are able to complete hazardous tasks that would otherwise have been completed by human workers. the development of robotic automation systems has enabled manufacturers to enter new markets due to the increased efficiency they can achieve, which has further increased their competitive edge. All of these benefits have come as a result of the ever-growing role of robotics automation engineers in the manufacturing sector.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a Robotics Automation Engineer is to obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Most employers require applicants for this position to have at least a four-year degree.
Gain Relevant Work Experience. After obtaining a degree, the next step to becoming a Robotics Automation Engineer is to gain relevant work experience. This could include internships or apprenticeships, or working as an engineer in a related field.
Complete Certifications. Many employers require Robotics Automation Engineers to have certain certifications, such as the Robotics Automation Professional (RAP) certification from the International Society of Automation (ISA).
Pursue Advanced Degrees. Robotics Automation Engineers may also pursue advanced degrees, such as a master's degree in engineering or a doctorate in robotics engineering. This can help increase their chances of obtaining higher-level positions.
Stay Up-to-Date on Technology. As technology is constantly changing, Robotics Automation Engineers must stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field. This could include attending conferences and seminars, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals.

In order to stay ahead and competent as a Robotics Automation Engineer, it is essential to stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the field. This can be accomplished by attending professional conferences, seminars and workshops related to robotics and automation, reading up on relevant industry publications and journals, and exploring online resources such as blogs and forums. it is important for engineers to stay up-to-date with the newest technology, products and services available in the industry.

This can be achieved by staying in contact with industry experts, researching emerging trends, and attending webinars or other educational opportunities. Finally, having a strong understanding of programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, and MATLAB is essential for any Robotics Automation Engineer to be competent in their field.

You may want to check Robotics Applications Developer, Robotics Trainer, and Robotics Cyber Security Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Design and develop robotic automation solutions for industrial and commercial applications.
Analyze customer requirements and develop specifications for robotic automation systems.
Design, program and debug robotic automation systems.
Develop and maintain software for robotic automation systems.
Develop safety protocols for robotic automation systems.
Monitor and test robotic automation systems for proper operation.
Troubleshoot and repair robotic automation systems.
Perform maintenance and calibration of robotic automation systems.
Participate in research and development projects related to robotic automation systems.
Prepare technical documentation related to robotic automation systems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expertise in robotics and automation engineering principles and technologies
Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering
Ability to develop and troubleshoot robotics systems
Ability to read and interpret technical blueprints, schematics, and diagrams
Knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, Python, MATLAB, and LabVIEW
Experience with robotic operating systems such as ROS and VxWorks
Knowledge of sensors and other input/output devices
Knowledge of motion control systems and algorithms
Ability to develop and implement safety protocols for robotic systems
Ability to operate robotic equipment and tools
Ability to work with a variety of fabrication materials
Ability to document engineering processes and procedures
Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to robotics
Excellent problem-solving skills
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills

Robotics automation engineering is a highly technical field that requires a strong understanding of both software and hardware. Successful robotics automation engineers must have a wide range of skills, from writing sophisticated algorithms to troubleshooting complex mechanical systems. One of the most important skills for a robotics automation engineer is being able to understand the underlying principles of robotics and automation systems.

This requires an in-depth knowledge of physics, mechanics, electrical engineering, and computer science. Knowledge in these areas allows engineers to create effective solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of their clients. engineers must be able to collaborate with other engineers, designers, and stakeholders to ensure that the solutions they create are effective and efficient.

Finally, effective problem solving and critical thinking skills are also essential for success in this field. Through the combination of knowledge and skills, robotics automation engineers are able to create efficient and effective solutions that meet their clients needs.

Robotics Component Designer, Robotics Prototype Designer, and Robotics Project Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with robotics automation?
How would you design and implement a complex robotic automation system?
What challenges have you encountered while working on robotic automation projects?
What strategies have you used to troubleshoot robotic automation problems?
How do you ensure the safety of personnel when working with robotics automation?
How do you keep up with the latest advancements in robotics automation technology?
How do you stay organized when working with a large amount of data?
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy and consistency in robotic automation?
Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult team member working on a robotic automation project.
What techniques do you use to ensure that robotic automation projects are completed on time and within budget?

Common Tools in Industry

Robotics Studio. This is a software development kit designed by Microsoft to help engineers create and manage robotics applications. (example: Autonomous rover navigation with obstacle avoidance)
Robot Operating System (ROS). This is an open-source robot operating system that provides standard libraries and tools for programming robots. (example: Robotic arm manipulation with vision)
Robot Framework. This is an open-source test automation framework designed to help automate robotic tasks. (example: Automating data collection from multiple sensors)
OpenCV. This is an open-source computer vision library used for image processing and robotic vision applications. (example: Object recognition for automated sorting systems)
Gazebo. This is a 3D robotics simulator used for testing and training of robotic systems in a virtual environment. (example: Robot navigation in a virtual maze)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Robotics Industries Association (RIA)
International Federation of Robotics (IFR)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Robotics and Automation Society (IEEE RAS)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers Robotics and Automation Division (ASME RA)
Automation Network (AN)
International Society of Automation (ISA)
International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA)
Intelligent Robots and Systems Society (IROS)
Autonomous Vehicle Technology (AVT)

We also have Robotics UX/UI Designer, Robotics Integration Specialist, and Robotics Process Automation (RPA) Analyst jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Artificial Intelligence (AI). The ability of a computer or other machine to think and learn.
Machine Learning (ML). The ability of a computer or other machine to learn from data without being explicitly programmed.
Robotics. The design and use of robots, either for industrial or research purposes.
Automation. The use of technology, such as robotics, to perform tasks with minimal or no human involvement.
Control Systems. Systems that monitor and control physical systems such as robots, using sensors and computer programs.
Programming. Writing instructions in a programming language that can be understood by computers and robots.
Computer Vision. The ability of a computer or other machine to identify objects and recognize patterns in the environment.
Sensors. Devices that detect and measure physical conditions such as temperature, light, pressure, and motion.
Actuators. Devices that cause physical change in the environment, such as moving objects or changing their position.
Algorithms. A set of instructions that define how a task should be performed by a computer or robot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main responsibilities of a Robotics Automation Engineer?

The main responsibilities of a Robotics Automation Engineer include designing, implementing, and testing automation systems, developing robotic systems, programming and debugging software, troubleshooting hardware, and providing technical support and maintenance.

What qualifications are required to become a Robotics Automation Engineer?

To become a Robotics Automation Engineer, qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree or higher in an engineering field such as electrical engineering, computer engineering, or robotics engineering, as well as experience in programming, electronics, control systems, and mechanics.

What skills does a Robotics Automation Engineer need?

Skills needed to be a successful Robotics Automation Engineer include problem-solving and analytical skills, programming proficiency, familiarity with robotics and automation platforms and languages, knowledge of electrical systems and circuits, and an understanding of control systems.

How long does it typically take to become a Robotics Automation Engineer?

It typically takes 4-5 years to become a Robotics Automation Engineer. This includes earning a bachelor's degree in an engineering field, gaining experience with programming, electronics, control systems, and mechanics, and completing any additional certifications or licensing requirements.

What is the job outlook for Robotics Automation Engineers?

The job outlook for Robotics Automation Engineers is expected to be very good with employment projected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2029 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Web Resources

Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology - Kansas State www.salina.k-state.edu
Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology - NHTI www.nhti.edu
Robotics and Automation - School of Engineering - Santa Clara www.scu.edu