Robotics Technicians

O*NET 17-3024.01 · SOC 17-3024

Robotics Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $74k a year with +2.6% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 1,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+2.6%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$74k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
1k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Install, wire, and program industrial robots on production lines.
  • →Troubleshoot robot malfunctions by diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults.
  • →Perform preventive maintenance on robotic arms and end effectors.
  • →Test robot programs and adjust parameters to improve cycle performance.
  • →Train operators on safe robot operation and basic troubleshooting procedures.

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Robotics Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Robotics Technician? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Robotics Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningInstall, wire, and program industrial robots on production lines.
MiddayTroubleshoot robot malfunctions by diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults.
AfternoonPerform preventive maintenance on robotic arms and end effectors.

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)6.9
Conventional (Organizers)4.7
Investigative (Thinkers)3.9
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.4
Social (Helpers)1.1
Artistic (Creators)1.0

Who Thrives as Robotics Technician?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorINTJThe StrategistESTJThe Executive

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Robotics Technician Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Robotics Technicians is projected to grow 2.6% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

46/100Elevated disruption risk
  • ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
  • ·43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Robotics Technician make?

The median Robotics Technician earns $74k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Robotics Technician jobs?

Our model puts Robotics Technician at 46 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.

Is Robotics Technician a growing field?

Employment is projected to grow 2.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 1,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Robotics Technician?

Most Robotics Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.

How long does it take to become a Robotics Technician?

Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Robotics Technician career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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