Robotics Deployment Technician
What is a robotics deployment technician?
A robotics deployment technician is a trained professional who aids in the installation and deployment of a robotic fleet to ensure optimal performance, often providing ongoing support for external customers. Even the most off-the-shelf robot solution will require some tailoring to the environment and that is part of what robotics deployment technicians do. Robotics deployment technicians are a key part of ensuring that robot customers realize the value that sold them on robots, so their role is key.
To understand what a robotics deployment technician does, it is important to understand the role of deployment technicians in general. Deployment technicians are engineers who install, deploy, and maintain systems. Deployment technicians are also found in manufacturing where they build and automate new systems. Robotics deployment technicians, then, install and deploy robotic solutions. Customers may purchase the robots as a capital investment, or they may be provided on a monthly basis from a robots-as-a-service (RaaS) provider. Regardless of the method of buying, a robotics deployment technician is involved in setting up the robotic solution and making sure it meets the customer’s requirements.
Education and training
Robotics deployment technician is a great entry point into the robotics industry. Most technicians have at least an associate’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, or in robotic technology. In some circumstances, employers will accept a high school degree with two or more years of experience in robot technology. Certificate programs and apprenticeship programs also exist to enable students to train specifically to be robotic deployment technicians.
In addition to a technical background, employers are also looking for robotics deployment technicians who have good customer service skills. Robotics deployment technicians are the first non-sales professionals customers are interacting with, so great customer service and relationship-building skills are key.
Job responsibilities, requirements, and compensation
The ideal robotic deployment technician likes being out of the office, working directly with robots and customers. On the job, robotics deployment technicians install, set up, and configure robots to work as expected in the customer’s environment. This often involves troubleshooting and training customers on how to best use the robots.
Below are some job responsibilities of robot field engineers from various job sites:
- Provide mentoring support to team members and customers during project deployment and post-sales phases
- Monitor and observe the operation of customer robot fleets to ensure optimal performance
- Be the point person to solve warehouse automation problems with the customers as they arise
- Proactively identify and troubleshoot issues, providing timely solutions to minimize downtime to the customer
- Document operational data and generate reports to track performance
- Provide feedback to internal teams on customer needs, product performance, and potential areas for improvement
- Perform hardware troubleshooting, including electronics, motors, and cabling, ensuring optimal functionality of the robot fleet.
- Work hands-on with electromechanical systems in a shop environment, contributing to the efficient operation of the robots.
- Conduct robot inspections and perform preventative maintenance
- Demonstrate soldering expertise when necessary, maintaining and repairing electronic components.
- Exhibit a quick learning ability and an exceptional work ethic, adapting swiftly to evolving challenges.
- Must have first-rate attention to detail and be meticulous in all tasks.
- Document all fixes to robots and maintain spare parts inventory
Some of the soft skills employers are looking for in prospective candidates:
- Strong customer service skills
- Proactive and self-motivated with the ability to work independently and adapt to changing situations.
- Familiarity with software, mechanical, or electrical systems gained through work experience or educational background.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think analytically in fast-paced operational environments.
- Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with customers and internal teams
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
According to ZipRecruiter, robotics deployment technician hourly pay ranges from $19.47/hour to $30.05/hour. Being a robotics deployment technician is a great way to get started in the world of robots.
