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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Mechatronics and Robotics Apprentice

💰 $30,000 - $45,000

EngineeringMechatronicsRoboticsApprenticeshipAutomation

🎯 Role Definition

The Mechatronics and Robotics Apprentice supports engineering teams by learning and applying multidisciplinary skills in mechanical systems, electronics, control systems, and software to build, test, and maintain robotic and automated equipment. This entry-level role focuses on hands-on assembly, wiring, prototyping, testing, documentation and continuous learning under the mentorship of senior mechatronics, automation and robotics engineers. Ideal candidates are mechanically curious, safety-focused, comfortable with basic programming and electronics, and eager to develop practical skills in industrial automation, embedded systems and robot integration.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • High school technical program or vocational training in electronics, mechanics, or mechatronics
  • Internship or co-op in a robotics lab or automation shop
  • Technical certificate (e.g., CNC, PLC fundamentals, electronics technician)

Advancement To:

  • Junior Mechatronics Engineer / Robotics Technician
  • Automation Engineer / Controls Engineer
  • Embedded Systems Engineer or Test Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Mechanical Technician (CNC, fabrication)
  • Electrical Technician (panel build, wiring)
  • Field Service Technician for industrial robots

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Assemble and wire prototype robotic subassemblies and mechatronic modules according to engineering drawings and BOMs, ensuring correct cable routing, connector seating, and mechanical fastener torque to meet safety and reliability standards.
  • Solder and populate small PCBs, perform basic through-hole and surface-mount soldering, and follow ESD-safe procedures when handling electronic components and sensors used in robot control systems.
  • Read, interpret and apply electrical and mechanical schematics, wiring diagrams, pneumatic/hydraulic schematics, and assembly drawings to support build and test activities.
  • Support the installation, configuration and commissioning of embedded controllers, microcontrollers (Arduino, STM32, ESP32), and single-board computers (Raspberry Pi) used in robotic prototypes and automation cells.
  • Write, debug and maintain basic firmware and control scripts in languages such as C/C++, Python, or structured text for PLCs, under supervision, to implement sensor readings, actuator control and simple motion sequences.
  • Perform hands-on setup, calibration and tuning of sensors (encoders, IMUs, proximity sensors), servomotors, stepper motors and motor drivers to achieve accurate position and velocity control.
  • Participate in integration and system-level testing including functional tests, acceptance tests and regression tests; execute test plans, log results and raise defects with clear reproduction steps and evidence.
  • Use oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers and other bench instruments to measure signals, validate circuits and troubleshoot electrical issues in mechatronic systems.
  • Operate and maintain machine tools, hand tools, and fabrication equipment (3D printers, laser cutters, band saws, drill presses) to produce and modify mechanical components used in prototypes.
  • Assist in building and maintaining control panels, cable harnesses and industrial enclosures, following wiring standards (color coding, labeling) and safety regulations (lockout/tagout).
  • Support PLC programming tasks and ladder logic development under mentorship, including reading/writing basic PLC logic, creating HMI screens and testing interlocks for automation equipment.
  • Install and configure communication buses and protocols commonly used in robotics and automation (CAN, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, I2C, SPI) to connect sensors, actuators and controllers.
  • Collaborate with engineers to iterate on mechanical and electrical designs by creating and updating CAD models and drawings, producing prototype parts and incorporating feedback from test results.
  • Participate in robotic cell assembly, including mounting robots, end-effectors, conveyors and safety guarding, and assist with collaborative robot setup and force/torque sensor integration.
  • Support routine preventative maintenance, diagnostics and on-site troubleshooting for robotic systems during development and pilot production runs, documenting actions and recommended improvements.
  • Create clear and thorough technical documentation including assembly instructions, wiring diagrams, test procedures, calibration logs and maintenance checklists to support reproducibility and knowledge transfer.
  • Execute small design-for-manufacturing and design-for-assembly improvements suggested by the engineering team, which may include simplifying wiring, reducing part count or improving access for maintenance.
  • Assist with BOM creation and revision control using PLM/ERP systems, ensuring correct part numbers, revision levels and substitute options are recorded.
  • Follow and promote laboratory and shop safety practices including PPE usage, chemical handling, safe lifting, machine guarding and adherence to electrical safety codes.
  • Support software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop test setups by loading firmware, running simulations, capturing logs and coordinating with software engineers to validate control algorithms.
  • Participate in design reviews, daily stand-ups and project planning sessions, providing honest progress updates and raising risks or resource constraints that affect delivery.
  • Perform quality inspections on incoming components and finished assemblies, using calipers, gauges and visual checks to ensure parts meet required tolerances and functional expectations.
  • Learn and apply model-based design tools (MATLAB/Simulink) basics to help translate control objectives into testable implementations, under guidance of senior engineers.
  • Shadow field service visits or production line commissioning to gain experience with industrial standards, compliance testing and real-world deployment challenges.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain the workshop and lab environment by organizing tools, restocking consumables, labeling inventory and ensuring calibration of measurement instruments.
  • Support procurement tasks by sourcing replacement parts, obtaining pricing quotes and preparing component kits for upcoming builds or experiments.
  • Assist in continuous improvement initiatives by documenting repeated failures, proposing corrective actions and participating in root cause analyses (5-Why, fishbone).
  • Contribute to training materials and internal knowledge base articles for safe operation, routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of robotic equipment.
  • Help maintain project timelines and documentation in project management tools (Jira, Asana, Trello), updating task statuses and attaching test artifacts.
  • Participate in scheduled cross-training and apprenticeship curriculum sessions to rapidly upskill in areas such as PLCs, CAD and embedded software.
  • Support customer-facing demonstrations and pilot tests by preparing demo units, running scripted scenarios and collecting feedback for engineering teams.
  • Assist with regulatory and compliance documentation (CE, UL, ISO) by compiling test records, component certifications and traceability information as requested.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Hands-on electronics assembly and soldering (SMT and through-hole) with ESD-safe handling procedures.
  • Basic embedded systems programming in C/C++ and Python for microcontrollers and SBCs (Arduino, STM32, Raspberry Pi).
  • Experience with PLC fundamentals and ladder logic (Siemens, Allen-Bradley familiarity is a plus).
  • Familiarity with robot programming concepts and ROS/ROS2 basics or willingness to learn ROS quickly.
  • Strong competency in reading electrical schematics, mechanical drawings and BOMs.
  • Proficiency with CAD software for mechanical parts modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or equivalent).
  • Practical experience with sensors and actuators: encoders, IMUs, LIDAR, ultrasonic sensors, servos, stepper motors and DC motors.
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols: CAN, Modbus, I2C, SPI and Ethernet-based fieldbuses.
  • Use of diagnostic and lab equipment: digital multimeter, oscilloscope, logic analyzer, power supply and function generator.
  • Basic pneumatic and hydraulic system understanding, including fitting, tubing and valve operation.
  • Experience with 3D printing, rapid prototyping techniques and basic CNC operation or comfort learning them on the job.
  • Version control and basic software development workflows (Git, commit/push/pull, basic branching).
  • Ability to develop and execute test plans, capture data logs, and summarize test findings for engineering review.
  • Familiarity with safety standards and shop practices: lockout/tagout, machine guarding and PPE compliance.

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to assembly, testing and documentation.
  • Clear verbal and written communication skills for reporting issues, writing procedures and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Curiosity and a growth mindset: rapid learner who seeks mentorship and takes ownership of skill development.
  • Problem-solving orientation with persistence to troubleshoot intermittent or complex faults.
  • Time management and organization skills to juggle multiple small projects and deliverables.
  • Team player with a collaborative mindset and willingness to support colleagues across mechanical, electrical and software domains.
  • Adaptability to change priorities in a fast-paced development or manufacturing environment.
  • Professionalism and reliability: punctual, responsive and accountable in apprenticeship commitments.
  • Safety-focused attitude, modeling good shop behavior and proactively identifying hazards.
  • Customer-oriented mindset for roles involving demos, field support or production handover.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent with technical/vocational coursework in electronics, mechanics, robotics or a related field.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate degree or diploma in Mechatronics, Robotics, Electrical Technology, Mechanical Technology or an apprenticeship certificate.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering (preferred for accelerated progression).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Mechatronics
  • Robotics
  • Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Automation and Control Systems

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0–2 years of hands-on experience (entry-level/apprenticeship), including school projects, internships, vocational placements or hobbyist robotics experience.

Preferred: Prior practical experience building or maintaining electromechanical systems, documented project work (robotics clubs, competitions, maker projects), basic familiarity with PLCs, embedded programming and CAD. Certifications or coursework in soldering, industrial safety, PLC programming, or robotics fundamentals are advantageous.

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