How to become a Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineering is a specialization under the broach branch of engineering that is focused on producing automated machines. A robotics engineer is responsible for designing, building, assembling as well as testing, and maintaining robots and robotics systems. This field represents an intersection of multiple areas of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science.  A robotics engineer primarily aims to develop or ‘manipulate’ machines to perform tasks that are otherwise done by a human. They also build robots to make tasks easier and safer for humans by programing machines to perform hazardous or unhealthy jobs. A robotics engineer shall use 3D-CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools to design the robot/robotics system to the circuit and finally build the product using CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacture) framework. The robotics engineer is to carry out these tasks while attempting to make the final product as accessible and economical as possible. Given the amount of time and effort that goes into each project/product, it is not uncommon for robotics engineers to have worked only on a handful of them throughout their career.

The role of a robotics engineer comprises of the following tasks: 

• Review and approve the cost proposals based on efficiency studies, and design calculations
• Perform as technical support for the system/product created
• Test and design the software processes used for dictating the functionality of the robotic product
• Install, calibrate and operate the product 
• Write programming code for the robotic applications 
• Maintain thorough documentation regarding the robotic system’s development and maintenance, as well as any changes introduced
• Work on boosting the performance of the systems using the newly emerging technology of Artificial Engineering and Machine Learning
• Identify and resolve errors for debugging the programs
• Create the blueprints of the robotic systems using CADD and other modelling software
• Being involved in continued research about the feasibility, design, and performance of the robotic system and suggest improvements
• Create the manufacturing tools and processes that aid in building the robots

A robotics engineer must be in possession of certain requisite skills and inclinations along with a relevant educational background. Excellent complex problem-solving and communication abilities, as well as critical thinking skills, are important for robotics engineers. Since the nature of their work is quite challenging, they need to be resourceful as well as have the ability to produce quality work under pressure. They must also be able to work in adherence to timelines. An aspiring robotics engineer should have good knowledge of math as well as be innovative, inquisitive, and logical. They should also be able to work along with a team and comfortable with leadership roles as well. Readiness to work long hours and willingness to take up responsibilities is necessary. An aspiring robotics engineer should develop and hone their decision making and reasoning skills as well.

Minimum Monthly Salary: Entry-level Robotics Engineers may earn a minimum monthly salary of around INR 25,000 to INR 40,000. These are typically individuals who have recently completed their education in robotics engineering or a related field and are starting their careers.

Maximum Monthly Salary: Experienced and highly skilled Robotics Engineers with advanced degrees, specialized expertise, and several years of experience may earn anywhere from INR 80,000 to INR 1,50,000 or more monthly. The salary can vary based on factors such as the size and reputation of the company, the complexity of the projects they work on, and their level of responsibility within the engineering team.

Annual Salary: The annual salary may range from INR 3,00,000 to INR 4,80,000 for entry-level or junior Robotics Engineers. As Robotics Engineers gain more experience, work on cutting-edge projects, and develop expertise in specific areas of robotics (such as AI-based robotics or industrial automation), their annual income can increase to approximately INR 9,60,000 to INR 18,00,000 or higher.

Highest Paying Jobs and Scope: Robotics is a rapidly evolving field with significant growth potential. Robotics Engineers with expertise in developing advanced robotic systems, such as autonomous vehicles, medical robots, or industrial automation solutions, will likely have better salary prospects. Additionally, those who work in research and development or contribute to innovative projects may command higher salaries.

The scope for Robotics Engineers in India is promising, as industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and agriculture increasingly embrace robotic technology to improve efficiency and productivity. Robotics Engineers can find employment opportunities in various sectors, including robotics research labs, manufacturing companies, tech startups, and consulting firms.

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 one’s educational background, experience, and skillsets, aspirants may apply for the following robotics engineering jobs:

• Robotics test engineers
• Robotics Technicians
• Automation system engineers
• Robot Design Engineer
• Robotics research engineers
• Robotics Programmers
• Automated  Product Design Engineer
• Maintenance Engineers