The idea of robots performing our human duties dates back as far as 3,000 BCE, when Egyptians used human figurines in their water clocks to strike bells on the hour. However, robots as we know them today are much more complex and can do almost anything a human can. Learning robotics is a great way to explore this potential.
Robots are used virtually everywhere to perform tasks such as scooping cat litter, vacuuming floors, and working in industries to produce everyday goods. If you are fascinated with how robots work and what they can do, this guide contains everything you need to know about how to become a robotics engineer.
What Is a Robotics Engineer?
A robotics engineer is a highly trained professional responsible for developing, building, and maintaining robotic devices. They can spend hours working on a computer, testing their ideas and exploring ways to make existing robots more effective. They also come up with new concepts on how robots think and move.
Robotics Engineer Job Description
A robotics engineer designs, builds, and tests robots. These engineers are also responsible for maintaining the software used to control the robots and ensuring that the end product is economical and easy to maintain. A robotics engineer must research the safest and most efficient process to manufacture robotic systems during the initial stages.
There is a wide variety of robots in the market, each created for a specific purpose. You will find them in aerospace, nuclear, mining, automotive, computer, and even metal industries. As a robotics engineer, your work is to determine the specific needs of each application and customize the robots to fit these needs.
Robotics Engineer Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), robotics engineers earn a median salary of $90,160, which is about $43.35 an hour. You can expect your salary to grow as your real experience increases. A degree in robotics engineering is required for you to get career opportunities. Note that BLS places robotics engineering together with mechanical engineering.
The BLS also projects that robotics engineer jobs will grow by seven percent between 2020 and 2030. This means there will be around 20,900 new jobs in that time, which is a high outlook. The demand for mechanical engineers and robotics engineers will only continue to grow in the coming years.
Top Reasons to Become a Robotics Engineer in 2021
If you want to become a robotics engineer, you probably have your own reasons. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always helpful to do your own research and discover why it might be the right career choice for you. Take a look below at some of the most popular reasons to enter robotics engineering.
Diversity. The robotics engineering industry has a wide variety of technology, objectives, and innovation. As a result, you can create different machines in different industries to serve different purposes.
High Salary. Robotics engineering is one of the most lucrative careers in the engineering field. According to PayScale, the average salary of a robotics engineer is $85,096, and experienced workers can earn $99,798.
Innovation. Within the field of robotics, you can expect to face different challenges that require you to be innovative. Also, you are not limited to working with robots. For instance, medical science engineers can create robotic limbs.
Collaboration. The field of robotics engineering relies on collaboration and teamwork. Robotics engineers work with a large team from a wide range of professional backgrounds. You will enhance your teamwork skills and network with people who have similar or varying skillsets.
Robotics Engineer Job Requirements
Like any other job opportunity, you must meet the standard requirements of this engineering field. Being a robotics engineer requires extensive technical expertise, so your skills and education are important. Below is an overview of the top requirements for robotics engineers.
Education. You must be educated to work as a robotics engineer. The minimum level of education is a bachelor’s degree. You can pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Automation, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering. Extensive knowledge in science and advanced math can be an added advantage.
Hands-on Experience. You must have no less than two years of experience working as a robotics engineer. You can learn how to find an apprenticeship or internship to get hands-on experience working on functional real-world projects.
Creativity. You must showcase expertise in software development and developing electrical and robotic systems. In addition, you should be proficient in using drafting programs like AutoCAD.