How to become a robotics engineer

Robotics engineering is a hands-on industry with significant demand for skilled workers. Learn how to become a robotics engineer and find online courses on edX.

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Robotics engineers design, build, and test robots and robotic systems. They are key players in advancing technology and transforming how humans interact with the world.

Learn more about a career as a robotics engineer, and discover what steps you'll need to take to enter this field.

What does a robotics engineer do?

Robotics engineers design, develop, and test robotic systems that automate tasks and support human operations across various industries. They work with mechanical and electrical systems, programming, and artificial intelligence (AI) to create efficient and adaptable machines.

Key skills

Robotics engineers should build proficiencies in mechanical design, electrical systems, programming, sensor integration, machine learning, and troubleshooting.

Workplace settings

Robotics engineers typically work in labs, manufacturing facilities, or research environments, often collaborating with cross-functional teams to prototype, test, and refine robotic solutions.

"I spend at least 70% of my time out on the shop floor," said Wade Campbell, senior controls engineer at Auria Solutions, which manufactures sensory accessories like carpets in cars. "It is not a sit-behind-the-desk type of job."

Steps to become a robotics engineer

Becoming a robotics engineer requires both formal education and hands-on experience. A bachelor's degree in a related field can help you get started in the industry, though additional certifications and specialized skills can strengthen your qualifications.

Many aspiring robotics engineers take the following steps:

Step 1: Earn a degree in engineering or a related field

To become a robotics engineer, many people start their careers with a degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Robotics is a multidisciplinary field, so a degree in any of these areas provides a solid foundation in the necessary concepts and skills.

Step 1: Earn a degree in engineering or a related field

Get started on edX

Want to learn more? Check out edX's online engineering master's degree programs and get started on the path to becoming a robotics engineer today!

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Equivalent to on-campus

Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a robotics engineering degree?

A robotics engineering degree program provides students with a solid foundation in robotics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Students learn to create innovative robotic solutions for various applications, from automation to healthcare to exploration.

How much does a robotics engineer make a year?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mechanical engineers — including robotics engineers — earned a median annual salary of $118,780 as of May 2024. The BLS projects that employment for mechanical engineers will grow by 7% from 2024-34, adding around 19,700 new jobs per year.

How long does it take to become a robotics engineer?

Earning a bachelor's degree in robotics engineering or a related field typically takes four years. However, entering the industry may take up to six years if you pursue additional certifications or a master's degree. Employers often choose candidates with a master's degree due to their advanced knowledge and specialized skills.

Last updated September 15, 2025