Looking for the best career options in robotics? From Robotics Engineer to AI Developer and Drone Specialist, discover top roles, skills needed, average salaries, and future scope in India. Explore how to start a career in robotics after 12th, diploma, or graduation.
Why Robotics is the Future
According to a report by NASSCOM, India’s robotics and automation industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20% and cross $7.5 billion by 2030. That’s not a future you want to miss.
With automation taking over repetitive tasks in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and even agriculture—career options in robotics are becoming not just attractive, but essential.
If you’re wondering, “Is robotics a good career in India?”—the answer is a big yes. And if you’re a parent or a student reading this, you’re in the right place to start planning for a future-ready profession.
What is Robotics?
Robotics is the science of designing, building, and using robots to perform tasks that are either dangerous, repetitive, or require high precision.
Robotics combines:
- Mechanical engineering
- Electronics
- Computer science
- Artificial intelligence
It’s where technology meets creativity.
Why Choose a Career in Robotics?
Let’s get real for a moment. Every student or professional wants a career that is:
- High paying
- Future-proof
- Interesting
- In demand globally
A career in robotics ticks all these boxes.
Whether you’re a techie who loves coding or someone fascinated by machines, this field has something for everyone.
Best Career Options in Robotics (Updated for 2025)
Let’s break down the most exciting and high-demand roles in robotics. This is the heart of the article, so take notes!
1. Robotics Engineer
(Most Searched Role) Designs, tests, and develops robotic systems.
- Where you work: Automobile, aerospace, defense, healthcare industries
- Avg Salary in India: ₹6–12 LPA
- Top Recruiters: Tata Elxsi, Fanuc, ISRO, DRDO, GreyOrange
2. AI & Machine Learning Engineer (For Robotics)
Trains robots using data—essential for automation and autonomous robots.
- Popular Industries: Healthcare, self-driving cars, smart assistants
- Avg Salary: ₹8–18 LPA
- In-demand skills: Python, TensorFlow, NLP, deep learning
- Tip: Learn AI along with ROS (Robot Operating System)
3. Mechatronics Engineer
Builds systems where electronics, mechanics, and computing meet.
- Ideal for: Those who like both hardware & software
- Avg Salary: ₹5–10 LPA
- Hot Sector: Robotics for manufacturing, packaging, and drones
4. Embedded Systems Developer
Develops firmware and real-time code for robot controllers and processors.
- Core Skills: C, C++, RTOS, microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi)
- Great for: Students who love electronics
- Avg Salary: ₹4–9 LPA
5. Robotics Technician
Assembles, installs, and maintains robots—especially in factories.
- Good For: Diploma/B.Tech holders
- Avg Salary: ₹2.5–6 LPA
- Growing demand: Automotive and pharma industries
6. Automation Engineer
Automates processes in factories using robots and software systems.
- Avg Salary: ₹6–12 LPA
- Tools to learn: PLC, SCADA, HMI, Python
- Where you’ll work: Tata Motors, Bosch, L&T, Maruti Suzuki
7. Research Scientist in Robotics
Conducts advanced research in AI, computer vision, and autonomous systems.
- Requires:Tech or PhD
- Workplaces: ISRO, DRDO, academic institutes, R&D labs
- Salary Range: ₹10–25+ LPA
8. Robot Software Developer
Writes code for robot movement, navigation, and vision systems.
- Popular Languages: Python, C++, Java
- Trending Field: Robotics middleware (ROS), simulation (Gazebo, Unity)
- Avg Salary: ₹6–15 LPA
9. Computer Vision Engineer
Makes robots “see” and understand their environment using cameras and sensors.
- Used in: Surveillance, drones, autonomous vehicles
- Skills Required: OpenCV, Deep Learning, 3D mapping
- Avg Salary: ₹7–16 LPA
11. Robotics UX/UI Designer
Designs how humans interact with robots in a safe and efficient way.
- Emerging field: Especially in humanoid robots, chatbots, AI assistants
- Avg Salary: ₹6–11 LPA
- Great for: Creative people interested in design + tech
12. Drone Engineer
Specializes in building and programming flying robots (UAVs).
- Applications: Agriculture, delivery, defense, surveying
- Tools to Learn: Pixhawk, DroneKit, GPS systems, AI for vision
- Salary: ₹5–15 LPA
- Tip: DGCA-certified drone pilot roles also booming!
13. Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) Specialist
Focuses on making robots understand human emotions, gestures, and voice.
- Hot in: Healthcare robots, service robots, education
- Skills: Psychology + AI + NLP
- Salary Range: ₹7–14 LPA
- Ideal for: Those who love blending humanities and technology
14. Ethical Robotics Consultant
Helps design and deploy robots ethically, focusing on human safety and social impact.
- Emerging Career
- In demand in: AI governance, defense robotics, healthcare tech
- Salary: ₹7–12 LPA
- Great for: Those interested in tech + ethics/law
15. Robotics Entrepreneur / Startup Founder
Start your own venture in automation, drones, AI robots, or robotic arms.
- Support: Incubation at IITs, NASSCOM, MeitY Startup Hub
- Popular in: Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad
- Example Startups: Asimov Robotics, GreyOrange, Emotix (Miko Robot)
Career Options in Robotics by Educational Background
| Education Level | Best Roles |
| After 12th (Science) | B.Tech Robotics, Mechatronics, AI |
| After Diploma | Robotics Technician, Automation Asst |
| After B.Tech | Robotics Engineer, Embedded Developer |
| After M.Tech | Research Scientist, AI Engineer |
| Non-Tech Background | Robotics UX, HRI, Ethics Consultant |
Best Career Options in Robotics (Quick Comparison)
| Career Option | Who It’s For | Average Salary (₹) | Top Skills Needed | Industry Demand ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robotics Engineer | B.Tech/BE in Mech/Robotics/Mechatronics | 6–12 LPA | CAD, Python, Mechanics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| AI & ML Engineer | CS/IT grads or upskilling professionals | 8–18 LPA | Python, AI, ML, Deep Learning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Mechatronics Engineer | Techies who love hardware + software | 5–10 LPA | Mechanics, Electronics, Control Systems | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Embedded Systems Developer | Electronics & Communication Engineers | 4–9 LPA | C, C++, Microcontrollers, RTOS | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Robotics Technician | Diploma holders or ITI-trained students | 2.5–6 LPA | Assembly, Maintenance, PLC basics | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Research Scientist | Postgrads, PhD aspirants | 10–25+ LPA | Research, AI, Publications | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Automation Engineer | Electrical/Mech/Industrial engineers | 6–12 LPA | PLC, SCADA, Python | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Robot Software Developer | Coders who love robotics logic | 6–15 LPA | Python, C++, ROS | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Computer Vision Engineer | AI & robotics enthusiasts | 7–16 LPA | OpenCV, AI, Image Processing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Drone Engineer | Tech + aviation fans | 5–15 LPA | UAV design, GPS, Programming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| HRI Specialist | Psychology + Tech lovers | 7–14 LPA | NLP, UX, Robotics Ethics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Robotics UX/UI Designer | Creative + tech-savvy minds | 6–11 LPA | Design Tools, Human-Robot Interface | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Data Scientist for Robotics | Coders good with data + AI | 9–18 LPA | Data Science, Python, ML | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ethical Robotics Consultant | Thinkers with tech + ethics background | 7–12 LPA | Legal Awareness, AI Ethics | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Robotics Startup Founder | Aspiring entrepreneurs | 0–∞ (varies) | Problem-solving, Fundraising, Tech vision | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Courses & Colleges in India for Robotics
Top Indian Colleges:
- IIT Kanpur – M.Tech in Robotics
- IIIT Hyderabad – Research in AI & Robotics
- MIT Pune – B.Tech in Mechatronics
- SRM University – Robotics & Automation
Online Courses:
- Coursera: Robotics Specialization by Penn
- NPTEL: Robotics by IIT Madras
- Great Learning: AI & ML for Robotics
Even short-term certifications can boost your resume.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a career that’s exciting, stable, and in demand, robotics is the way to go. From engineering to AI, from hands-on work to research—career options in robotics cover a wide range of interests and strengths. So whether you’re a student wondering what to do after 12th, or a working professional looking to upgrade—this is your signal to explore robotics.
Want to take the next step? 👉 Explore online courses, speak to a career counsellor, or simply start building your own small robot.
👉 If you found this helpful, don’t forget to check our guide on Top Courses After 12th for Science Students