By Josh Olgin, Managing Partner & Practice Leader

Whether you’re a hiring manager or an engineering professional looking to grow in robotics, understanding the most in-demand skills can set you apart. At DRI, we help companies and candidates stay aligned with what’s shaping the future of automation and robotics.

Technical Skills in Demand

The robotics talent market is evolving rapidly. Companies are currently seeking professionals with:

• ROS and ROS 2 Proficiency: Robot Operating System experience is increasingly essential, particularly in mobile and collaborative robotics. Engineers who can build scalable, modular, and flexible robot software with ROS are highly sought after.
• Controls Engineering: As robots become more sophisticated, companies look for engineers skilled in designing and tuning advanced control systems for motion, force, and trajectory optimization.
• Integration Experience: Robotics isn’t built in a vacuum. Professionals with hands-on experience in integrating subsystems—sensors, PLCs, motors, and software—into cohesive automated solutions are in high demand.
• Software & Embedded Development: Proficiency in C++, Python, MATLAB, and real-time operating systems is a major asset. Robotics companies are especially eager for talent that can bridge software and hardware development.
• AI & Machine Learning: Engineers with skills in computer vision, sensor fusion, and deep learning algorithms are increasingly valuable as AI-driven robotics applications grow in complexity.

Soft Skills That Set Candidates Apart

In addition to technical expertise, companies value professionals who are:

• Strong communicators and team collaborators
• Comfortable working across functions (engineering, product, operations)
• Agile and adaptable in solving novel challenges
• Curious, coachable, and mission-driven

These soft skills are often the deciding factor when candidates are otherwise technically equal. Robotics environments are inherently cross-disciplinary, and success depends on how well team members connect ideas, solve problems creatively, and collaborate effectively.

Why the Talent Gap Matters

With the global robotics market projected to grow at over 20% annually, the demand for experienced talent continues to rise. This demand has created a skills gap—especially at the mid-to-senior level—making it more important than ever for companies to understand what’s really driving candidate decisions.

Compensation alone isn’t always enough. Engineers are also looking for:

• Mission-driven work and long-term impact
• Growth opportunities and mentorship
• Company stability and technical leadership

How DRI Can Help

As a recruiting partner embedded in the robotics industry, we understand not only which skills are trending—but why. Our team helps companies:

• Benchmark current skill demands
• Identify transferable skills in adjacent markets
• Craft roles that attract top-tier talent

For professionals looking to break into or advance in robotics, we provide:

• Personalized job search guidance
• Resume refinement based on current hiring trends
• Access to exclusive roles with innovative robotics firms

Is your team equipped for what’s next in robotics? Contact DRI’s Automation & Robotics team to access the professionals moving the industry forward.