Robotics Engineers

Employers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are more than 170,100 robotics engineers working in the United States. Robotics engineers are employed in virtually every manufacturing industry. With the trend toward automation continuing—often via the use of robots—people trained in robotics can expect to find employment with almost all types of manufacturing companies in the future. Robotics professionals also work in professional, scientific, and technical service industries and for government agencies such as the Department of Defense and NASA.

A large number of robotics manufacturers are found in California, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Connecticut, Texas, British Columbia, and Ontario, although companies exist in many other U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

Starting Out

In the past, most people entered robotics technician positions from positions as automotive workers, machinists, millwrights, computer repair technicians, and computer operators. Companies retrained them to troubleshoot and repair robots rather than hire new workers. Although this still occurs today, there are many more opportunities for formal education and training specifically in robotics engineering, and robotics manufacturers are more likely to hire graduates of robotics programs.

Graduates of two- and four-year programs may learn about available openings through their schools' career services offices. It may also be possible to learn about job openings through want ads in newspapers and trade magazines, through job fairs, and on employment Web sites.

In many cases, it will be necessary to research companies that manufacture or use robots and apply directly to them. Professional engineering and robotics associations may offer publications with classified ads, or other job search information.

Job opportunities may be good at small start-up companies or a start-up robotics unit of a large company. Many times these employers are willing to hire inexperienced workers as apprentices or assistants. Then, when their sales and production grow, these workers have the best chances for advancement.