How to become a Mechatronics Engineer

Mechatronics or Mechatronics engineering is an engineering speciality that has recently been acknowledged as a separate field. A combination of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering, Mechatronics investigates and employs the applications. of engineering concepts such as robotics, electro-mechanical systems, control systems to develop autonomous systems. A Mechatronics engineer is associated with designing and developing smart systems and machines that are aware of their environment, processing information to make decisions.

Applications of Mechatronics can be found in multiple domains such as propulsion systems, robotics, automation, computer simulation, gaming, control systems, engineering design and so on. Essentially, Mechatronics is required for the development of new technologies. For example, the design of car breaks has evolved to be safer, more responsive and efficient due to actuation, computing, control design and modern sensing.

A degree in Mechatronics engineering holds a lot of weightage that when combined with adequate knowledge and skill set, provides a decent mileage in one’s career. Owing to the versatility of this field, aspirants are enabled to find Mechatronics jobs across many industries such as manufacturing, defence, transportation and logistics, renewable energy,  agriculture, food and forestry, mining, tech businesses, and also emerging fields such as bioengineering, robotics and nanotechnology.

Mechatronics jobs are associated with multifaceted roles, but typically depend on the area of specialization. Generally, it comprises of the following tasks:

• Develop new products, technologies and prototypes
• Test and install new equipment
• Recommend modifications post evaluation of the tests
• Conduct analysis and simulation of engineering systems
• Improve safety, usability, efficiency, and reliability of engineering systems and processes
• Develop solutions for issues related to mechanical and electronic processes

Mechatronics engineering jobs require certain skills and inclinations along with a relevant educational background to excel in the field. Mechatronics engineering aspirants should generally have a passion for building, thinking and organizing. They are expected to be excellent problem-solvers, have a keen eye for details and have great communication skills. Aspirants must have an affinity for machines and tools. Mechatronics engineer jobs require a fair contribution of Physics, Mathematics, creativity, innovation and other logical concepts and thus, candidates must exhibit these traits to at least some extent. These are certain attributes that may not be mentioned in the Mechatronics engineering job description, but employers certainly look for them in aspirants.

In order to enrol into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests. 

Depending on the educational background, area of interest and specialization, and experience, aspirants may apply for the following mechatronics engineering jobs: 

• Robotics engineer/technician
• Software engineer
• Automation engineer
• Mechanical design engineer
• Control system design engineer
• Electronics design engineer
• Project Engineer
• Data Logging Engineer
• Service Engineer
• Instrumentation Engineer
• Human/Machine Interface (HMI) Programmer
• Machine Designer
• Automation Specialist