Robotics Engineer

Also known as
Automation engineer

Become a “hero of science"

Robotics combines mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering skills. The bright sparks in this field design and build advanced robots that can do tasks faster and more accurately than any human.

At a glance

What can you expect from this role?
Average salary per year
£27500
Starter
Experienced
£27500
£54000
Typical hours
37 to 40 a week
You could work 9am to 5pm
Flexible working hours?
Need a lab coat?
Not usually!

What to expect

Day-to-day tasks

As a robotics engineer you could:

  • design automated systems using computer software
  • build, program and test prototypes and fix faults
  • analyse data from robot sensors, instruments and cameras
  • report on risks, issues and project progress
  • research news ways to use robots and artificial intelligence

Possible green job

This job could help the environment.

For a robotics engineer to be a green job, you could:

  • build and fix robots in the renewable energy sector
  • design robots using biodegradable materials
  • use robotic components that are easy to recycle

Working environment

You could work in an office, in a laboratory or at a manufacturing plant.

More Information

Career tips

You'll find it useful to join robotics engineering groups or take part in robotics design competitions to build up your skills and knowledge.

Further information

You can discover more about careers in engineering and robotics from The Institution of Engineering and Technology and Neon.

Explore the different ways to get into this role

People in these types of job started their career paths after studying courses like the ones below.

University

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in: artificial intelligence and robotics mechatronics robotics engineering mechanical or electronics engineering…
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College

You could do a college course which might help you to find a job as a robotics technician. Courses include:…
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Apprenticeship

You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to specialise in: Control and Technical Support Engineering Electro-Mechanical Engineering Embedded Electronic…
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Work Experience

You could start as a robotics technician or junior engineer. You could then study for higher education qualifications and work…
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Discover the skills you need for this role

People in these types of job possess skills like the ones below.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • maths knowledge
  • design skills and knowledge
  • complex problem-solving skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Career progression

Career progression opportunities include

You could become a lead engineer and be responsible for managing projects.

You could also specialise in a particular area of robotics, for example:

  • self-driving vehicles
  • space exploration
  • surgical instruments
  • deep ocean research
  • advanced manufacturing

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