Robotics Engineer
Integrate industrial robots, motion control, and machine vision into automated production systems.
What Robotics Engineers Do
Robotics engineers design and integrate the automated cells that build, inspect, and move products on modern factory floors. This starts with robot selection and work-cell layout — choosing an articulated arm, SCARA, delta, or collaborative robot (cobot) based on payload, reach, and cycle-time requirements, then defining the reach envelope, fixturing, and end-of-arm tooling (grippers, welders, dispensing heads) needed for the task.
A large part of the job is programming: teaching robot paths and logic in vendor-specific languages (RAPID for ABB, KRL for KUKA, TP for FANUC) or through offline simulation in RobotStudio, RoboDK, or Process Simulate, then coordinating the robot with upstream and downstream equipment through PLC-based motion and sequencing logic on Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000/RSLogix) or Siemens (TIA Portal) platforms. Machine vision integration — camera and lighting selection, part location, and defect inspection — is increasingly central, often using Cognex, Keyence, or OpenCV-based systems tied into the robot's pick-and-place or quality-check logic.
Safety engineering is a core responsibility: robotics engineers perform risk assessments per ISO 10218 and ANSI/RIA R15.06, size safety-rated monitored stops and speed/separation zones for cobots per ISO/TS 15066, and specify light curtains, safety PLCs, and E-stop circuits. Many robotics engineers also work with ROS (Robot Operating System) for research, mobile robotics, and increasingly for industrial applications that need advanced motion planning, sensor fusion, or fleet coordination of AGVs and AMRs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Robotics Engineer make?
In the US, Robotics Engineers typically earn $70,000–$88,000 at entry level, $95,000–$120,000 at mid-career, and $130,000–$160,000+ at the senior level. Actual compensation varies by region, sector, firm size, and certifications. (Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook 2025.)
What degree do you need to become a Robotics Engineer?
The typical path starts with a BS in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, or Mechatronics Engineering. No PE license typically required for most industrial automation and integration roles; an FE/PE (Mechanical or Electrical) path exists for engineers doing stamped facility or safety-system work
What certifications help a Robotics Engineer?
Commonly pursued credentials include Certified Robotics Integrator, FANUC / ABB / KUKA Certified Robot Programmer, Rockwell Automation Certified Specialist. The right certification depends on your specialty and employer; see the certifications table above for issuing bodies and notes.
How long does it take to become a Robotics Engineer?
BS (4 yr) → vendor robot certifications → 2-4 years hands-on integration experience → senior/lead integrator roles
Is Robotics Engineer a good career?
Robotics engineers design and integrate industrial robots, PLC-based motion control, and machine vision systems for manufacturing and automation. They program robot cells, size servo/motor drives, and ensure safe human-robot collaboration on the plant floor. No PE license is typically required for most industrial automation roles. Demand is driven by ongoing infrastructure, construction, and technology work, and pay rises substantially with experience and licensure — from $70,000–$88,000 to $130,000–$160,000+.