Imagine working on rovers or robots that can explore planets or build structures on the Moon. Learn more about the work of robotics engineers.
The Rundown
What do robotics engineers do?
Robotics engineers build, install, operate, test and maintain robots, robotic components, devices and systems.
Robotics plays a big part in the space sector. The robotic arms on the space shuttle and the international space station have:
- deployed payloads
- retrieved and repaired satellites
- helped crew inspect and repair spacecraft.
The Mars rover is also a robot designed for space exploration.
Australia has a very strong robotics industry. More opportunities to work in the space industry are likely to emerge in the coming years.
What you’ll need to know and do
Robotics engineering uses a combination of mechanical, electronic and programming skills. Some robots operate autonomously, while humans operate others.
Future robotics engineers may find themselves working on satellites that can navigate on their own and repair themselves. They also might work on rovers or other robots that can explore planets or build structures on the Moon.
Your study pathway
The minimum study requirement to work as a robotics engineer is an undergraduate degree in engineering. Some employers may have further requirements, such as postgraduate qualifications or research in a particular specialty.
The main engineering majors relevant to becoming a robotics engineer are:
- mechatronics engineering
- robotics engineering.
Degrees in the following study areas may also be relevant to becoming a robotics engineer:
- electrical/electronics engineering
- mechanical engineering
- systems engineering.
Almost all universities in Australia offer degrees in engineering. Visit individual university websites for more information.
