Robotics Engineers
Professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain robots and robotic systems across a wide range of industries.
O*NET OnLine — Robotics Engineers (17-2199.08)Robotics Engineers (O*NET SOC code 17-2199.08) are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain robots and robotic systems. Their work spans a broad spectrum — from sketching blueprints and coding algorithms to testing prototypes and troubleshooting malfunctions — making it an interdisciplinary, hands-on career that draws on mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and software development.
Core competencies include proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and ROS (Robot Operating System), familiarity with CAD tools like SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and a strong foundation in math and physics. Job titles in the field vary widely and may include Automation Engineer, Controls Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Robotics Software Engineer, and AI Robotics Engineer, among others.
Robotics Engineers serve industries including manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, defense, aerospace, construction, and AI-driven sectors. Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree (O*NET Job Zone 4). As of May 2023, BLS data places annual wages between $64,560 and $157,470, with a median of $99,510.
The profession is on a strong growth trajectory: BLS projects a 9% increase in mechanical engineering jobs (including robotics) from 2024 to 2034, and the global robotics market is projected to grow from approximately $41.7 billion in 2021 to $81.4 billion by 2028, signaling sustained demand for robotics engineering talent across sectors.