There is one trend today that engineers can’t afford to ignore: robotics. No longer the realm of sci-fi, robots now deliver automation to manufacturing, healthcare, and many other industries. You’ve probably observed the rise of robotics yourself. Likewise, you might have seen how engineers who embrace robotics enjoy a challenging and lucrative career. But as with any major shift in the marketplace, hiring the needed talent can prove challenging.
Recruiting in engineering is often tricky enough. Now, you must recruit engineers qualified for your industry with strong robotics skills. You risk falling behind your competition if you don’t take robotics seriously. Here’s what you need to know about the state of robotics in engineering—and how you can find the people needed to develop it.
Robotics is No Longer a Niche Field
Not too long ago, only a few companies employed robotics to help with their workflows. Specialty manufacturers, advanced medical research firms, and a few other bleeding-edge organizations used robots to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and make innovative breakthroughs. These companies had to make significant investments to reap those benefits.
Today, robotic technology is smaller, cheaper, and costs comparatively little to implement. Maintenance is simpler now, too, as the parts have become more commodified and mainstream. On top of that, robotics is no longer just about automated arms welding cars or futuristic medical devices. Robots are now a standard part of modern business. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and sensor technologies converged to make robots more intelligent, versatile, and cost-efficient.
That means robotics is no longer a niche field. It also means that the role of engineers has changed significantly in the last decade. Traditional engineering duties like crafting machines, structures, and data systems are still important, but today’s engineers may need to work with AI-powered drones or develop a shop floor robot. And as a hiring manager or HR professional, these developments just made recruiting in engineering an all-new challenge. Fortunately, there are some ways to find candidates who cover your engineering and robotics needs.
What to Look For When Hiring Engineers Who Can Develop Robotics
No matter how you approach it, recruiting in engineering and for robotics roles is not going to be straightforward. It’s a field full of specialized candidates, requiring an understanding of your industry. Still, sourcing the right talent is possible. Attracting this type of talent requires a targeted approach. Traditional job boards and other standard recruiting practices may not reach the niche robotics community.
Of course, the best candidates will have a solid background in your industry’s engineering fundamentals. But now you will also have to look for candidates interested in robotics, or at least those curious about learning new things.
Seek people with experience in mechatronics, control systems, sensor technology, and programming languages such as Python and ROS. Soft skills are as vital as technical skills. Robotics is team-oriented, problem-oriented, and creative, so look for candidates who thrive in teams and can think outside the box.
In addition, consider these hiring strategies:
- Network in the robotics ecosystem: Join industry events, participate in online forums, and connect with research groups and universities. This lets you tap into a talent pool of enthusiastic and experienced professionals.
- Highlight your company’s value: Demonstrate how your projects are changing lives in the real world. Robotics is for people who want to make a difference—emphasize how their work will advance healthcare, sustainability, or other meaningful areas.
- Rethink competitive compensation and benefits: What constitutes a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package changes for high-demand roles. For engineers with a knack for robotics, consider additional perks like providing professional development and access to cutting-edge training.
Takeaway: Robotics Continues to Reshape the Talent Marketplace
As robotic technology becomes more cost-effective and efficient, talented engineers will continue to design novel solutions that give businesses a competitive advantage. The resulting robotics solutions are more intelligent and versatile. Moving forward, this trend is likely to stay the same. Robotics has changed how businesses are done, and it’s changed the engineering talent marketplace.
Keeping up with robotics developments and finding talent to support them isn’t an option but a strategic necessity. The opportunities are endless for engineers who embrace this future and build teams ready to navigate its challenges. They will build a new future where humans and robots collaborate to create things, push boundaries, and make an endless future. Are you ready for the future? Follow MRINetwork for more insights into the future of hiring practices across a range of industries.