How To Become A Robotics Engineer
A robotics engineer is responsible for the entire life cycle process of crafting a robot, from conception to manufacturing. Additionally, a robotics engineer is responsible for creating new, improved robots for systems, repairing industrial robots, and developing new uses for robots within various fields.
Why Become A Robotics Engineer
The field of robotics engineering allows of intense creativity in experimental areas of engineering. Robotics engineers review robotic designs, calibrate and service robots, integrate robots with various mechanical devices, supervise engineers and technicians, and solve robotic mechanical issues. Crafting a robotic machine is a collaborative effort between many individuals, as you will most likely work in a team to create a robot.
You will utilize your exemplary mathematical, computer programming, CAD design, and drafting skills. Robotics engineering is a field of engineering that continues to grow and prosper. If you decide to pursue a career in robotics engineering, you will enter an extremely innovative and creative field, while encountering individuals from various fields of engineering.
Robotics Engineer Work Environment
Robotics engineers may work within the medical, aerospace, mining, military, manufacturing, and agricultural industries. Additionally, robotics engineers typically work full-time, sometimes more, depending on the project.
Robotics Engineer Salary
Robotics engineering falls into the category of mechanical engineering, according to the Occupational Employment and Wages Report of the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the US Department of Labor. Therefore, in 2012, the BLS showed that the mean annual wage of a mechanical engineer was $84,770.
Robotics Engineer Career Outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, robotics engineering falls into the category of mechanical engineering. The career outlook for mechanical engineering appears to be somewhat promising. From 2012 to 2022, the overall employment of mechanical engineers is expected to grow at least 5%, which is slower than average for all occupations. While the increase may be slow, there is expected to be more of a demand for the robotic machines and advanced or emergence or new technologies.
Robotics Engineer Degree
If you wish to pursue a career in robotics engineering, you will need to obtain a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics Engineering. Coursework within a Bachelor’s degree may include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Furthermore, your coursework will focus on the fundamental concepts of each engineering field, while building a strong understanding of robotic systems and robotics. Many Bachelor’s degree programs in robotics engineering may concentrate on the ethical implications of working within the robotics field. Throughout your coursework, you may also engage in laboratory work and create working robotics. Furthermore, undergraduate coursework may include calculus, physics, industrial robotics, sensor performance and integration, and industrial engineering. Upon graduation, you may find employment as a robotics system controller, robotics quality assurance technician, robotics programmer, robotics testing technician, or a laboratory assistant.
In order to design and create robotic machines and systems, you will need to further your education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Robotics Engineering. Throughout your graduate coursework, you will build upon your undergraduate experience and knowledge by learning about the environments and contexts that robots are created. Additionally, you will design and create robotic devices and perform research. Graduate coursework may include robot dynamics, robotics engineering practicum, mathematical algorithms, and social implications of robotic technology. Upon graduation, you may find employment as an industrial robotics engineer, healthcare robotics engineer, computer software robotics engineer, automotive robotics engineer, or aerospace robotics engineer.
Upon graduating from your institution of choice, it is imperative that you become licensed within the field of robotics engineering. In order to become certified, you must graduate from an ABET-accredited program and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Additionally, you will need to have four years experience as a training engineer before you obtain your Principles and Practice of Engineering licensure exam. It is vital to your education to continue learning as much as you can about the robotics engineering industry by continuing to earn educational credits within your field.
