Will AI replace Robotics Technicians?

AI can do 38% of the work Robotics Technicians do at least twice as fast. Real use has not caught up: none of their tasks show up in real AI use yet, but AI could speed up 10 of them. Robots can technically handle 4 physical tasks. 8 still need a person.

AI is already doing this0 · 0% of time

People already use AI for these tasks in real work, based on Anthropic's analysis of how Claude is used.

  • Real AI use has not reached any of this job's tasks yet.

AI could do this next10 · 38% of time

AI can speed these up by at least half, but real use has not caught up yet. These are next in line.

  • Install, program, or repair programmable controllers, robot controllers, end-of-arm tools, or conveyors.8% of time
  • Maintain service records of robotic equipment or automated production systems.5% of time
  • Modify computer-controlled robot movements.5% of time
  • Evaluate the efficiency and reliability of industrial robotic systems, reprogramming or calibrating to achieve maximum quantity and quality.5% of time
  • Document robotics test procedures and results.4% of time
  • Assist engineers in the design, configuration, or application of robotic systems.4% of time
  • Program complex robotic systems, such as vision systems.2% of time
  • Develop robotic path motions to maximize efficiency, safety, and quality.2% of time
  • Develop three-dimensional simulations of automation systems.1% of time
  • Train robots, using artificial intelligence software or interactive training techniques, to perform simple or complex tasks, such as designing and carrying out a series of iterative tests of chemical samples.1% of time

Robots can technically do this4 · 9% of time

Physical tasks that today's robots can perform in at least some settings. Robots are cost competitive for very few tasks so far, so this change moves slower.

  • Test performance of robotic assemblies, using instruments such as oscilloscopes, electronic voltmeters, or bridges.Robots: purpose built settings4% of time
  • Attach wires between controllers.Robots: purpose built settings2% of time
  • Fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures, using metalworking machines.Robots: purpose built settings1% of time
  • Maintain inventories of robotic production supplies, such as sensors or cables.Robots: purpose built settings1% of time

Still needs a person8 · 54% of time

No real AI use, no proven AI speedup and no robot that can do it yet. This is the part of the job to build on.

  • Troubleshoot robotic systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, mechanics, sensor or feedback systems, hydraulics, or pneumatics.14% of time
  • Perform preventive or corrective maintenance on robotic systems or components.11% of time
  • Make repairs to robots or peripheral equipment, such as replacement of defective circuit boards, sensors, controllers, encoders, or servomotors.11% of time
  • Align, fit, or assemble components, using hand tools, power tools, fixtures, templates, or microscopes.6% of time
  • Install new robotic systems in stationary positions or on tracks.4% of time
  • Build or assemble robotic devices or systems.4% of time
  • Train customers or other personnel to install, use, or maintain robots.2% of time
  • Inspect installation sites.1% of time

Your week is not the average

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What this means

AI can speed up parts of this job, mostly the paperwork and information work around it. The core still depends on hands, presence or relationships.

What to do next

  • Get ahead on the 10 tasks AI could do next. These move as tools improve, so learning them early pays off.
  • Keep an eye on the 4 physical tasks robots can technically do. Cost keeps most robots out of work today, so this shift is slower.
  • Build on the 8 tasks that stay human. This is where your judgment, skill and relationships matter most.
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians46%Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians65%Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians46%Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians30%Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians60%Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians61%

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