Robot Technicians build, install, test, or maintain robotic and other relevant automated production systems. The following table summarizes some critical pieces of information for this occupation. The information in this reading was compiled from the U.S. Department of Labor’s O*NET program, by utilizing its ONLINE occupation quick search feature.
Sample of reported job titles:
- Automation Technician
- Electrical and Instrumentation Technician (E and I Technician)
- Field Service Technician
- Instrument and Automation Technician
- Instrument Specialist
- Instrument Technician
- Instrumentation and Controls Technician
- Instrumentation and Process Controls Technician
- Process Control Technician
- Programmable Logic Controllers Technician
Common tasks carried out:
- Make repairs to robots or peripheral equipment, such as replacement of defective circuit boards, sensors, controllers, encoders, or servo motors.
- Troubleshoot robotic systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, mechanics, sensor or feedback systems, hydraulics, or pneumatics.
- Install, program, or repair programmable controllers, robot controllers, end-of-arm tools, or conveyors.
- Maintain service records of robotic equipment or automated production systems.
Critical technology skills required:
- Analytical or scientific software
- Computer aided design (CAD) software
- Development environment software
- Industrial control software
- Operating system software
Critical knowledge required:
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical
- Design
- English Language
Skills needed:
- Repairing
- Troubleshooting
- Critical Thinking
- Equipment Maintenance
- Reading Comprehension
Abilities needed:
- Deductive Reasoning
- Inductive Reasoning
- Near Vision
- Oral Comprehension
- Written Comprehension
Educational level of the surveyed Robotics Technicians:
- Post-Secondary Certificate: 45%
- Associates Degree: 23%
- Bachelor’s Degree: 18%
Related occupations:
- Mechanical Engineering Technicians
- Electronics Engineering Technologists
- Manufacturing Production Technicians
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
- Medical Equipment Repairers
Employment data:
- Median wages (2019): $28.05 hourly, $58,350 annual
- Employment (2018): 14,000 employees
- Projected growth (2018-2028): Little or no change (-1% to 1%)
- Projected job openings (2018-2028): 1,400
- Top industries (2018): Manufacturing