Top Prescreening Questions to Ask Robotics Technician

What is your educational qualification in robotics or a related field?

The first step in evaluating a potential robotics technician is understanding their educational background. Ensure a basic understanding of the practical implementations of engineering principles, and scrutinize coursework related to robotics, control systems or automated manufacturing.

Do you have any professional certification related to robotics?

Many employers prefer candidates with professional certifications which demonstrate their proficiency. Doskocil Manufacturing, for instance, offers a Certified Robotics Technician credential, which assures that the holder has a good grasp of robotic operations and applications.

How many years of practical experience do you have as a robotics technician?

Theoretical knowledge is valuable, but real-world experience dealing with robotics is equally if not more critical. Experienced candidates can hit the ground running and contribute immediately to your team.

Can you elaborate on the kinds of robots you have worked with?

Understanding the variety of robotic platforms a candidate has worked on can provide you with a broader picture of their capabilities. Someone who has worked on diverse robotic systems may be able to bring a flexible, problem-solving mindset to your team.

Can you elaborate on a project where you were tasked with regular maintenance and troubleshooting of robots?

Reliability is vital in a manufacturing environment. Candidates should be comfortable conducting regular maintenance on the sophisticated machines they oversee, and quick to identify and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Do you have experience in programming controllers such as PLCs, PICs etc?

Many robots are controlled by Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) or Peripheral Interface Controllers (PICs). Familiarity with these tools can be a significant advantage.

Are you experienced in CAD software? If yes, which software are you most proficient in?

CAD (Computer Aided Design) software is vital in designing and testing robot parts. Prospective technicians should be proficient in, at least, one popular CAD tool.

Do you have experience in using simulation software for the design and testing of robots?

Simulation software allows technicians to model robotic systems and anticipate potential complexities before they become actual problems. A candidate who can proficiently use such tools can save your company significant time and money.

Do you have experience with different sensors used in robotics, for example, touch, proximity or vision sensors?

Sensors are the eyes and ears of a robot. Each sensor type provides different capabilities, so candidates should be able to explain how these different types fit into different robotic solutions.

Can you explain a situation where you had to diagnose and fix a malfunctioning robot?

This question can help you understand how a candidate troubleshoots under pressure. It's not just about understanding the process, but also their approach to problem-solving and how they maintain efficiency and productivity under pressure.

Do you have experience with robotic welding?

Robotic welding is used extensively in manufacturing, and a technician with this experience can be particularly beneficial if your company uses welding robots.

What is your proficiency level in industrial automation?

Understanding a candidate's comfort level with various industrial automation tools can provide you with a better understanding of where they might fit within your organization.

Are you comfortable working with high voltage electrical systems and machinery?

Safety is critical in a manufacturing environment. Being comfortable around high voltage systems and machinery indicates that the candidate has had exposure to and respects the working conditions they'll be in.

Do you have any safety certifications relevant to a robotics technician role?

Candidates who have safety certifications represent a reduced risk for your company, indicating they have met specific safety training standards and understand the importance of safety protocols.

Do you have experience with pneumatics and hydraulics in industrial applications?

Many robots rely on pneumatics and hydraulics for movement. Understanding these systems can be a significant advantage for a potential robotics technician.

Can you describe your level of understanding and competency in robotics technology?

This open-ended question enables candidates to speak freely about their strengths and competencies, thus providing you with an opportunity to understand their comfort level with the complex technologies involved in modern robotics.

Have you ever trained others on how to use and maintain robotic equipment?

A candidate who has experience training others may have a more profound understanding of the workings of a robot and can also be a valuable resource for other team members.

Describe a time when you had to use complex problem-solving skills during a project.

This query helps assess a candidate's critical thinking skills and how they approach a difficult situation.

Can you describe your experience with robot calibrations and tuning?

Proper calibration and tuning can greatly increase the efficiency of a robot. The technician must be proficient in these areas.

Are you familiar with integrating robots with other pieces of equipment or machinery?

Most industrial robots need to work sync with other machines. A candidate needs to have experience integrating systems smoothly.