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

Jun 20, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Robotics technicians play an important role in the development and maintenance of robots. As robots become increasingly complex and widely used, these technicians are essential to the manufacturing process. Their primary responsibilities include constructing, programming, calibrating and testing robots.

The successful completion of these tasks can have a major impact on the efficiency of the production process. In addition to helping to improve production times, robotics technicians are also responsible for troubleshooting and repairing robots when they malfunction. By ensuring that robots are functioning properly, they can help to reduce downtime and minimize costly repairs.

As robots become increasingly prevalent in the manufacturing industry, robotics technicians will be in high demand.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent. Robotics technicians usually need at least a high school diploma or GED to qualify for entry-level positions.
Earn an associate degree in robotics technology. Most employers prefer to hire robotics technicians who have a postsecondary education in robotics technology, engineering technology, electronics technology, or a related field.
Gain experience with hands-on training in a related field. Although most robotics technician positions don't require prior experience, formal hands-on training in a related field, such as mechanical engineering, electronics engineering, or industrial automation, is beneficial.
Earn certifications. Additional certifications in robotic technologies, such as the Robotics Industries Association Certified Robot Technician designation, may help improve job prospects.
Seek apprenticeship or internship opportunities. Apprenticeships and internships can provide valuable experience and make candidates more attractive to employers.
Search for entry-level jobs. Robotics technicians can find entry-level jobs by searching online job boards, attending job fairs, or contacting employers directly.

Becoming a skilled and competent robotics technician requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical experience, and strong problem-solving skills. To achieve this, individuals should pursue education and certifications in relevant fields such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science. They must also dedicate time to develop their practical skills by working with robots and other machines in a hands-on environment.

problem-solving capabilities should be honed through challenges such as programming, troubleshooting, and repair activities. By combining technical knowledge, practical experience, and problem-solving skills, individuals can become skilled and competent robotics technicians.

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Job Description

Robotics Technician: Diagnoses, repairs, and maintains robotic systems. Tests and adjusts the performance of robots, installs and configures robot hardware and software, and ensures robotic systems are functioning properly.
Robotics Engineer: Designs and develops robotic systems, including mechanical and electrical components. Tests and evaluates robotic systems for accuracy, reliability, and safety, and modify designs as needed.
Robotics Programmer: Writes and tests programs to control robotic systems and develop automated processes. Monitors system performance and makes necessary adjustments to ensure proper functioning.
Robotics Maintenance Technician: Performs scheduled maintenance on robotic systems and troubleshoots any issues that occur. Monitors system performance and makes necessary adjustments to ensure proper functioning.
Robotics Technician Assistant: Assists Robotics Technicians in troubleshooting, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining robotic systems. Tests and adjusts the performance of robots, installs and configures robot hardware and software, and ensures robotic systems are functioning properly.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of robotics hardware and software systems
Proficiency in programming languages, such as C++ and Python
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose robotic systems
Understanding of safety protocols and best practices for working with robots
Familiarity with mechanics, electronics, and automation systems
Ability to read, interpret, and modify electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
Experience with robotic assembly and disassembly
Ability to use precision measuring instruments and tools
Knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) software
Ability to work with 3D printing technologies

Having a strong background in robotics technology is essential for any robotics technician. Robotics technicians need to be able to understand the principles of robotics, as well as be familiar with the various components and software that go into creating a functional robot. They must also have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to troubleshoot and debug any issues that arise.

Robotics technicians must also have great communication skills, as they will often be working with other technicians and engineers to ensure the successful implementation of a robot. Finally, robotics technicians must have a thorough understanding of safety protocols and procedures to ensure that any robots they are working with are safe and secure. By having these skills, a robotics technician can ensure that any robot they are working on will be properly built, maintained, and operated safely.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with robotics technology?
Can you explain a project you have completed involving robotics?
What challenges have you faced when troubleshooting robotics systems?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with robots?
How do you keep up with the latest advancements in robot technology?
What processes do you use to ensure robots are correctly installed and functioning?
How do you diagnose and fix any problems that arise with robotic systems?
What methods do you use to test robots and ensure they are working properly?
Are you familiar with any programming languages related to robotics?
How do you handle difficult customers in regards to robotic issues?

Common Tools in Industry

Robotic Arm. A robotic arm is a mechanical device used to move and manipulate objects in a variety of ways, often with a great degree of precision. (eg: ABB IRB 1400)
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software. CAD software is used to create 3D models and designs of robots, components and systems. (eg: Autodesk Fusion 360)
Programming Software. Programming software allows robotic technicians to write code and programs for robots to execute specific functions. (eg: Robot Operating System (ROS))
Automation Software. Automation software is used to automate tasks that would otherwise need to be done manually, allowing for a higher level of efficiency. (eg: UiPath)
Sensors. Sensors are used to detect changes in the environment and to provide feedback to the robot. (eg: Infrared Sensors)
Wiring Tools. Wiring tools are used to connect electrical components and systems to the robot's control system. (eg: Wire Stripper)
Soldering Iron. A soldering iron is used to join two metal pieces together using a molten metal called solder. (eg: Weller WLC100 Soldering Station)
Screwdrivers. Screwdrivers are used to secure screws into place and loosen them when needed. (eg: Phillips Head Screwdriver)
Test Equipment. Test equipment is used to diagnose problems with the robot or its components. (eg: Oscilloscope)
Pliers. Pliers are used to bend, cut, or grip objects. (eg: Needle-Nose Pliers)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Federation of Robotics
Association for Advancing Automation
American Robot Association
Robot Institute of America
Robotics Industries Association
National Institute of Standards and Technology Robotics
European Robotics Association
IEEE Robotics and Automation Society
The Robotics Society of Japan
International Conference on Robotics and Automation

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Common Important Terms

Robotics. A branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots and their systems.
Automation. The process of controlling or operating a system or machine automatically.
Programming. The process of creating and writing computer code to control the functioning of a robot or other automated device.
Artificial Intelligence (AI). A branch of computer science that focuses on creating intelligent machines which can think and act like humans.
Machine Learning. A subfield of AI that uses algorithms to enable machines to learn, improve, and adapt based on data and experience.
Machine Vision. A system of artificial intelligence that uses cameras and sensors to detect objects, read text, and recognize faces.
Sensors. Devices or components that detect changes in physical or environmental conditions, such as temperature, light, pressure, or sound.
Actuators. Devices or components that convert an input signal into a physical output, such as turning a motor or opening and closing a valve.
Electronics. The study and application of electricity and electronics, including electrical circuits, components, and systems.
Control Systems. Systems designed to regulate the behavior of a robot or other automated device by providing instructions on how it should move and respond to external stimuli.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Robotics Technician? A1: A Robotics Technician is a professional who works with robotic systems to design, build, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot robotic systems. Q2: What qualifications are required to become a Robotics Technician? A2: To become a Robotics Technician, you typically need an associate's degree in robotics technology or a related field. In addition, experience in engineering, electronics, or computer programming is helpful. Q3: What type of tasks do Robotics Technicians typically perform? A3: Robotics Technicians typically perform tasks such as programming robotic systems, troubleshooting and repairing robotic components, and testing and optimizing robotic systems. Q4: What types of industries do Robotics Technicians work in? A4: Robotics Technicians may work in a variety of industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare. Q5: What is the average salary of a Robotics Technician? A5: The average salary of a Robotics Technician is around $60,000 per year in the United States.