How to Become a Robotics Engineer: Your Full-on Detailed Manual

As technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace, the field of robotics has emerged as one of the most exciting and rapidly growing areas of engineering. Robots are no longer the stuff of science fiction movies – they are already here, and they are changing the world as we know it. From manufacturing and healthcare to space exploration and entertainment, robots are being used to solve some of the biggest challenges facing humanity today. If you’re interested in knowing how to become a robotics engineer, you’re in the right place!

For students who are passionate about technology and innovation, a career in robotics engineering can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling path. Robotics engineering is a field that is constantly evolving and advancing, with breakthroughs and discoveries being made all the time.

As a robotics engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of this cutting-edge industry, using your creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities to design and build robots that can help improve our world. Robotics engineers are the masterminds behind the design, development, and operation of robots and robotic systems. They are responsible for creating machines that can perform a wide range of tasks, from assembling cars and processing food to assisting with surgeries and exploring other planets.

Are you fascinated by the idea of designing robots that can perform complex tasks? If so, continue reading…

What does a robotics engineer do?

As a Robotics and Automation Engineer depending on your functional field of work, you will be engaged with one or more of the following roles and responsibilities: –

For Research and Development

1. You will be creating new solutions addressing critical challenges in robotics by exploring, developing, and integrating new sensing techniques.
2. You will be using designing software like CAD and Mech Designer to design and prototype robot motion control.
3. You will be testing the performance of electromechanical assemblies, sometimes about a living subject which means you will have to examine how your creations work inside/alongside a living organism.
4. You will be preparing detailed written or verbal presentations, technical reports, and compilations based on research outcomes.

For Products / Application Development and Prototype (Model) Launch

1. You will be planning, controlling, and overseeing all technical issues during the prototype launch process of a product as part of the application development team.
2. You will be suggesting solutions after evaluating the technical issues by consulting other teams like manufacturing or laboratory teams.
3. You will also have to prepare documentation/paperwork as well as engineering calculations associated with the changes after they have been implemented.

For Production Launch, Batch Testing, and Quality Control

1. You will be responsible for performing visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections at subassembly and final assembly levels using engineering drawings/specifications and general quality control standards.

2. You will have to record all your inspection data.
3. You will be reviewing manufacturing documentation to ensure that all assembly, testing, and inspection steps were performed following specifications.
4. You will be collaborating with the manufacturing team to investigate trends (find out what new changes can be introduced to the product development process), conduct root cause analysis (find out what causes are leading to which manufacturing problems) and suggest corrective actions (find out methods to correct the problems found) for processes and products.
5. You will be conducting internal audits regularly, leading quality-related meetings, and coordinating/facilitating the training of employees when required.

For Deployment and Field Services

1. You will be answering customer calls, which will involve interacting with associates and management, to remotely correct issues, or communicate with the next level of support if needed.
2. You will have to make visits to client locations and vendor offices or their manufacturing plants where you will perform an inspection of installed products as part of field verification of engineering designs.
3. You will be monitoring robot performance and adjusting for improvements in minimizing robot disruptions to meet customer expectations.    
4. You will be remotely examining and correcting issues using proprietary cloud-based virtual reality remote control tools.
5. You will have to provide timely, accurate, and detailed service visit reports typically within a day of job completion.

For Education

1. You will be involved in teaching/demonstrating to a class of students or a team of research scholars pursuing this stream of study.
2. You will typically be engaged in supervising or outlining research projects for doctoral or post-doctoral scholars working in your team.
3. You will demonstrate techniques or handling of apparatuses to your students inside a laboratory and counsel / guide students in the performance of laboratory course experiments.
4. You will participate in seminars, science congresses, and conferences across the world.
5. You will be involved in conducting regular research regarding new technologies, experimental techniques, instruments, and laboratory supplies that can improve research standards as well as operating procedures and outcomes.

Why become a robotics engineer?

Becoming a robotics engineer can be a great career choice for several reasons:

1. Exciting and innovative field: Robotics is a rapidly growing field that involves designing and building machines that can perform complex tasks. This work is often at the forefront of technological innovation and can be highly exciting and engaging.
2. Real-world impact: Robots are being used in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration, among others. As a robotics engineer, you’ll have the opportunity to work on projects that can have a real-world impact and contribute to the betterment of society.
3. High demand for skilled professionals: Robotics engineering is a highly specialized field, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals who can design, build, and operate robotic systems. This demand means that there are many job opportunities available, and job security is often high.
4. Competitive salary: Robotics engineers are typically highly skilled and specialized professionals, which often leads to higher salaries compared to other engineering disciplines.
5. Continuous learning opportunities: Robotics is a constantly evolving field, and there is always something new to learn. As a robotics engineer, you’ll have the opportunity to continue learning and developing new skills throughout your career.

👉 Know Leading Robotics Engineering Colleges in India

Popular specialization in a robotics engineering career

Here are some popular specializations in robotics engineering careers –

Robotics Engineer (Aerospace)

This is a broad category that includes all sorts of flying robots and robots that can operate in space. Astro-roboticists are specially trained for building robot-enabled dynamic systems to assist in space missions.

As examples, you can consider the ‘SmartBird’ robotic seagull and the ‘Raven’ surveillance drone. Also, NASA’s Robonaut, the humanoid that flew to the International Space Station and is now back on Earth.

Virologist (Oncolytic Viral Biology)

Oncolytic Viral Biologists are in huge demand today given the prevalence of cancer across the globe. Oncolytic viruses are those which selectively replicate in and kill cancer cells. They are used in cancer therapies. Oncolytic viruses have proven to be naturally cancer-selective and can also be genetically engineered. They spread within a tumor, without harming normal tissue. OVs are also very effective at inducing immune responses to themselves and the infected tumor cells.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Humanoids)

A humanoid is probably what comes to your mind when you think of the word ‘robot’. Specially trained roboticists build Humanoids which resemble the human body and are designed to do tasks meant for humans but mostly in a safe urban environment around humans.

Examples of humanoid robots include Honda’s ‘Asimo’, which has a mechanical appearance, and androids like the ‘Geminoid’ series, which are designed to look like people. Also, diving humanoids like ‘Ocean One (the favorite place for this robot is underwater).

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Biorobotics, Medical, and Health-Care Robots)

This segment includes Roboticists who design systems such as the Da Vinci surgical robot (to help doctors during surgeries) and bionic prostheses (mechanical arms/legs attached to a human body), as well as robotic exoskeletons (robots that can be worn or taken off like a garment) for people with physical limitations.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Consumer – personal and homecare appliances)

A section of Roboticists design and develop consumer robots that you can buy and use just for fun or to help you with tasks. Examples are Amazon’s Echo dot, Alexa, the robot dog Aibo, the Roomba vacuum, and a growing variety of robotic toys and kits.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Drones)

Some roboticists specialize in preparing ‘Drones’. Drones are also called ‘unmanned aerial vehicles’ (UAV-aircraft without a human pilot) or quadcopters. They can be of different sizes and have different levels of autonomy (capability of instructing themselves). Drones have several applications ranging from aerial photography to safety surveillance, search, and rescue operations, logistics, military activities, agricultural activities (monitoring or spraying), etc.

Examples include DJI’s popular Phantom series and Parrot’s Anafi, as well as military systems like Global Hawk, used for long-duration surveillance. DJI is also planning to add airplane and helicopter detectors to new drones in 2020.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Entertainment)

Another class of Roboticists designs special robots with a mind to evoke an emotional response in humans and make us laugh or feel surprised. This is one of the most challenging subfields of Robotics and Automation.

Among these are robot comedian RoboThespian, Disney’s theme parks robots like Navi Shaman, and musically inclined bots like Partner.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Telepresence)

This is one of the most interesting sub-fields. Roboticists specializing in creating remotely controlled robots are involved in designing robotic systems which can associate with a human host and do their jobs in the host’s physical absence. Telepresence robots allow you to be present at a place without going there. You connect with the robot via the internet and drive it around, seeing through the robot’s eyes, and talking with people!

Let us consider that your household physician is on a trip to China but someone at your home needs medical attention. Through these ‘Teleoperated’ robots, your doctor can attend to your relative while sitting in China! The robotic arm on the Space Shuttle is another such example.

Robotics and Automation Engineer (Micro/Nanorobotics)

Micro/Nano Roboticists are engaged in developing tiny microscale or nanoscale robots that can have varied applications. 1 meter is 106 times a micrometer or micron and 109 times a nanometer so you can imagine how small these robots are. The most advantageous factor is that they can access smaller spaces or scales directly due to their small size. They usually function as a colony which means hundreds of such robots are required for a single task. Some common fields of application are diagnosis and treatment inside or outside the human body, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and defense using miniature mobile robots. These robots are also being designed with various locomotion capabilities such as flying, walking, swimming, rolling, hopping, and climbing.

Steps to become a robotics engineer

To understand how to become a robotics engineer, you need to follow the following steps –

1. Earn a degree: To become a robotics engineer, you’ll typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in robotics engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Some employers may prefer or require a master’s degree.
2. Gain experience: While in school, look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in robotics engineering through internships, research projects, or extracurricular activities. This experience can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed for a career in robotics engineering.
3. Develop technical skills: Robotics engineering requires a strong foundation in math, physics, and computer science, as well as knowledge of programming languages like C++, Python, and MATLAB. Continuously developing and honing these technical skills is crucial for success in the field.
4. Build a portfolio: Build a portfolio of projects that demonstrate your robotics engineering skills and experience. This can include personal projects, academic projects, or professional work.
5. Network and gain industry knowledge: Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and network with other professionals in the field to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in robotics engineering and make valuable connections.
6. Look for job opportunities: Once you’ve gained the necessary education and experience, start looking for job opportunities in the field. Job titles may include robotics engineer, robotics software engineer, or automation engineer, among others.
7. Continue learning: Robotics engineering is a rapidly evolving field, and it’s important to continue learning and staying up-to-date on the latest developments and technologies. Consider pursuing advanced degrees, attending workshops or training programs, or pursuing professional certifications to stay current in the field.

By following these steps, you can set yourself on the path to becoming a successful robotics engineer.

Skills required to become a robotic engineer

As robotics is an advanced interdisciplinary field, you may need to be curious and committed to continuous learning. In particular, to become a robotic engineer you may have the following skills:

1. An interest in how things work: As a robotics engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, building, testing, and maintaining robots. You need to understand mechanics, electronics, sensory feedback systems, and how these complex machines work.
2. Imagination: You must be able to imagine how the robot will move and interact with the environment.
3. Decision-Making Skills: Many problems do not have clear solutions. In such situations, you have to evaluate the different options and make the best decision.
4. Mathematical Skills: As a robotics engineer, you will use advanced mathematics daily to design and analyze robot performance. Algebra, geometry, measurement, and statistics are commonly used, and calculus or trigonometry may be used.
5. Computer Skills: Robotics engineers use computer software to create detailed designs of robots and robotic systems before they are built. They also use specialized software to test how the robots perform in different environments.
6. Practical focus: You need to use practical and logical thinking to debug machines and make them work properly. You will often have to make decisions that degrade performance in one area and be able to determine the best way forward.
7. Communication skills: Being able to communicate your designs to other professionals is essential when you work as an engineer.

Eligibility criteria to become a robotics engineer

To understand how to become a robotics engineer, you need to continue reading this part… 

You must first complete your Class 11-12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics along with any other subject as per the scheme of studies. Then you can do an undergraduate degree. Thereafter you may either join a job or do a Post Graduate degree. After your postgraduate education, you can start working or go for a Ph.D.

You can choose to obtain your Engineering degree in any of the following fields or a similar field:

• Applied Physics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Bioelectrical Engineering
• Bioelectronics Engineering
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Biomechanics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomedical Instrumentation & Devices
• Bionics
• Biosensor Technologies
• Computational Linguistics
• Computational Sciences & Engineering
• Computer Science & Engineering
• Control Engineering
• Data Science & Engineering
• Digital Electronics
• Distributed & Parallel Computing
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electrical Signal Processing & Systems
• Electromechanical Engineering
• Electronic Systems & Devices
• Electronics
• Electronics & Instrumentation
• Electronics and Biomedical Engineering
• Electronics and Computer Engineering
• Electronics Engineering
• Embedded Systems and VLSI Design
• Engineering Mechanics
• Engineering Physics
• Industrial Automation
• Information Science & Engineering
• Machine Learning
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechanics
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Physics
• Robotics
• Software Engineering

Robotics engineering fee structure in India

The educational fees for Robotics engineering in India can vary depending on the institution and program you to choose.

In general, for a bachelor’s degree in Robotics engineering, the fees in India can range from INR 2 lakh to INR 8 lakh per year for top-tier institutions. However, fees for private institutions or foreign universities may be higher.

For a master’s degree in Robotics engineering, fees can range from INR 1 lakh to INR 5 lakh per year, again depending on the institution and program you to choose.

There may also be additional fees for books, equipment, and other materials needed for the program.

Note: It’s important to research the specific institutions and programs you’re interested in to get an accurate idea of the fees and any additional costs involved. Many institutions also offer scholarships or financial aid programs to help make education more accessible and affordable for students.

Career progression in robotics engineering

You may grow through the following or similar roles depending on your functional field of work.

• Functional Research and Design: Senior Product Development Engineer, Lead Robotics Project Engineer, Principal Method Development Scientist, Senior Manager-Advanced Manufacturing, Head of Technical/R&D, Plant Manager, Deputy Director – Product Development and Engineering, Director – Research Strategy & Integrity

• Production and Quality Control: Senior Optimization Analyst, Senior Quality Systems Validation Engineer, Lead Quality Engineer, Manager – Sustaining Assets & Services, Service & Maintenance Manager – Logistics &Warehouse Automation, Science Planning and Coordination Manager, Senior Product Development Manager, Director-Quality Control

• Education: Industrial Fellow, Associate Lecturer, Lecturer (Level B), Lecturer (Level C), Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor, Emeritus Professor, Visiting Senior Research Fellow, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, Director of Department

Job opportunities after studying robotics engineering

You can find work in potential areas like in industries and research institutions dealing with robotics, automation, mechatronics, or service providers and experts specializing in soft or hard Robotics or in electronics and electrical devices manufacturing companies, optometric device manufacturing companies, power/energy industry, healthcare research-based companies, etc. You may find work in roles such as:

• Robotics Engineer
• Robotics Developer
• Robotics Planning Engineer
• Automation Engineer
• Project Scientist
• Solution Design Engineer
• Computer Vision Research Engineer
• Embedded Robotics Engineer
• Research Scientist
• Assistant Professor

Some of the key players in Robotics and Automation market worldwide include:

• Honda
• Toyota Research Institute
• Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratory
• Google
• Apple
• Facebook Reality Labs
• Kawasaki Robotics (USA), Inc.
• Denso Wave Inc.
• Hitachi Ltd.
• Panasonic
• Samsung
• Toyota Motor Corp.
• Yamaha Robotics
• The Boeing Company

Robotics engineer salary in India

At the entry level jobs, after your Bachelor’s degree depending upon the institution where you are graduating from, you may expect to get about Rs. 25,000 – 1,00,000 or even more a month.

After 4-5 years of work experience, you may expect to earn around Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 1,50,000 a month or more depending on your job location and roles.

At the entry-level jobs, after your Master’s degree depending upon the institution where you are graduating, you may expect to get about Rs. 40,000 – 1,50,000 or even more a month. In junior-level jobs (after 4-5 years of experience), you can make about Rs. 60,000 – 2,00,000 or more per month.

In mid-level engineering jobs in India (after having 8-10 years of experience), you can expect to earn about Rs. 1,50,000 – 5,00,000 or even more a month.

In senior-level engineering jobs in India (after having 15 years of experience), you can expect to earn about Rs. 2,50,000 – 25,00,000 or even more a month.

Epilogue

The future of robotics engineering in India is highly promising, with the field projected to see significant growth in the coming years. According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets, the Indian robotics market is expected to reach a value of US$ 3.49 Billion by 2027, driven by increased adoption of automation in manufacturing and other industries.

This growth in the robotics industry is expected to lead to high demand for skilled robotics engineers in India. With the government’s focus on promoting innovation and technological development through initiatives like Make in India and Digital India, the demand for robotics engineers is expected to continue to rise.

Excited? Ready to become a robotics engineer? Need more clarity? Why don’t you connect with our industry experts? Yes, you read it right! You can get your queries resolved in just 60 seconds from our Career counselors. So, what are you waiting for? Download the iDreamCareer app now! 

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How to Become a Robotics Engineer: FAQs