12 answers
Gonzalo
Student
Cartagena, Region of Murcia, Spain
3
Questions
Updated
3992 views
Can I work at big technological companies like Google, Microsoft, etc if I have done my robotics career only?
I would like to work at big companies, and I also like building and working with robots, so I don't know what to do
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12 answers
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Gonzalo!
Of course you can work at these big companies with just robotics! You need to add the icing to the cake though. Talk to them in their own language. Software. Not just robotics. Your creation - the addition of the robot maker's intently-made software. If you are a garment manufacturer you can make a suit. Surely you must match the vest with the coat. Matched additions complement a product's functionality, adding value, and generate more money!
Big corporations are going to want you if you have the capacity to procure the folding stuff for them - money. Software does that pretty well, especially when it augments - complements the robotic creation!
Remember to focus on the software needed to operate these robots. This software will control how the machines respond to different situations. It's important for someone familiar with the mechatron to help design the right software and drivers.
The goal is to make machines that improve human lives, not just give the robot limbs, a voice and whatnot. So, your input's crucial, as it's about the software, not just the hardware. Well done to everyone working on adapting AI for this project! Your employability and versatility will stand in your favor if you can write the programs that power these robots.
Of course you can work at these big companies with just robotics! You need to add the icing to the cake though. Talk to them in their own language. Software. Not just robotics. Your creation - the addition of the robot maker's intently-made software. If you are a garment manufacturer you can make a suit. Surely you must match the vest with the coat. Matched additions complement a product's functionality, adding value, and generate more money!
Big corporations are going to want you if you have the capacity to procure the folding stuff for them - money. Software does that pretty well, especially when it augments - complements the robotic creation!
Remember to focus on the software needed to operate these robots. This software will control how the machines respond to different situations. It's important for someone familiar with the mechatron to help design the right software and drivers.
The goal is to make machines that improve human lives, not just give the robot limbs, a voice and whatnot. So, your input's crucial, as it's about the software, not just the hardware. Well done to everyone working on adapting AI for this project! Your employability and versatility will stand in your favor if you can write the programs that power these robots.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
You can absolutely work at top companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon Robotics, Tesla, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, iRobot, and SpaceX with a background in robotics. These companies are always looking for talented robotics engineers. To be successful, focus on building the right skills, working on robotics projects, and mastering Python and C++. Strong algorithm skills are also important.
Get involved in open-source projects on GitHub, practice coding often, and create a standout resume. Gain hands-on experience by using virtual simulation tools like Gazebo, Webots, or ROS to design and test robots without needing physical hardware. Joining robotics competitions such as FIRST Robotics, RoboCup, or VEX Robotics, and becoming part of robotics groups and online communities, can greatly enhance your skills and expand your network. Attend hackathons, conferences, and engage in forums to stay up-to-date and connected.
Practice interview skills regularly to build confidence and improve problem-solving abilities. Start by applying for volunteer roles, internships, or early-career programs like Google STEP or Microsoft Explore. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn to grow your network. With dedication and preparation, your robotics expertise can unlock many opportunities at major tech companies and leading robotics firms.
Get involved in open-source projects on GitHub, practice coding often, and create a standout resume. Gain hands-on experience by using virtual simulation tools like Gazebo, Webots, or ROS to design and test robots without needing physical hardware. Joining robotics competitions such as FIRST Robotics, RoboCup, or VEX Robotics, and becoming part of robotics groups and online communities, can greatly enhance your skills and expand your network. Attend hackathons, conferences, and engage in forums to stay up-to-date and connected.
Practice interview skills regularly to build confidence and improve problem-solving abilities. Start by applying for volunteer roles, internships, or early-career programs like Google STEP or Microsoft Explore. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn to grow your network. With dedication and preparation, your robotics expertise can unlock many opportunities at major tech companies and leading robotics firms.
John Easton CEng FIET FBCS CITP
Design large computer systems for companies
53
Answers
Winchester, England, United Kingdom
Updated
John’s Answer
The question is, why couldn't you? There are a lot of transferrable skills that I'm sure you have that they would be interested in.
The question you really should be asking yourself is what is more important to you? Robotics or working in a large tech company. If robotics is really your thing then you can likely find better places to work where you can both grow your career AND work with the technologies that you enjoy most. If you want the big name company on your CV, then are you prepared to give up the robotics (or just keep it as a hobby)?
And don't forget you can always change your mind. Like robotics now? If that changes in a few years time and you're sick of it, you can always change career then.
The question you really should be asking yourself is what is more important to you? Robotics or working in a large tech company. If robotics is really your thing then you can likely find better places to work where you can both grow your career AND work with the technologies that you enjoy most. If you want the big name company on your CV, then are you prepared to give up the robotics (or just keep it as a hobby)?
And don't forget you can always change your mind. Like robotics now? If that changes in a few years time and you're sick of it, you can always change career then.
Clinton Dickey
Hardware Development
4
Answers
Mill Creek, Washington
Updated
Clinton’s Answer
Hi Gonzalo,
One of the most striking differences between working at a large company versus a startup is the emphasis on diversity—not just in demographics, but in backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking. At the end of the day, we build products for people. So it only makes sense to have a diverse group of people involved in creating them.
I once hired someone from a game development company to help build hardware. Her understanding of “performance” was shaped entirely by her experience designing immersive gaming experiences—and that perspective turned out to be incredibly valuable. Similarly, I’ve seen chefs transition into writing technical documentation with ease, because crafting clear instructions is a lot like writing a recipe.
When I hire, a resume gives me a general sense of someone’s journey. But the real insight comes from the conversation—how they think, how they approach problems, how they unpack complexity. That’s where the magic is.
In your case, your background in robotics could offer unique insights into human-machine interaction, which is foundational for developing better AI models. Don’t underestimate the value of your perspective—it might be exactly what a team needs to push the boundaries of innovation.
One of the most striking differences between working at a large company versus a startup is the emphasis on diversity—not just in demographics, but in backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking. At the end of the day, we build products for people. So it only makes sense to have a diverse group of people involved in creating them.
I once hired someone from a game development company to help build hardware. Her understanding of “performance” was shaped entirely by her experience designing immersive gaming experiences—and that perspective turned out to be incredibly valuable. Similarly, I’ve seen chefs transition into writing technical documentation with ease, because crafting clear instructions is a lot like writing a recipe.
When I hire, a resume gives me a general sense of someone’s journey. But the real insight comes from the conversation—how they think, how they approach problems, how they unpack complexity. That’s where the magic is.
In your case, your background in robotics could offer unique insights into human-machine interaction, which is foundational for developing better AI models. Don’t underestimate the value of your perspective—it might be exactly what a team needs to push the boundaries of innovation.
Demetrius Vaughn
District Leader
21
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Demetrius’s Answer
Good Morning,
Getting into robotics is a fantastic starting point—it’s versatile, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the future of technology. Robotics opens doors to opportunities in major corporations, especially those focused on innovation and automation. As the field continues to shape the future of work and hardware, your skills will be in high demand.
Big companies are always planning ahead, and the exciting part is—you are the future. Your perspective, creativity, and adaptability give you a unique edge.
Keep evolving and stay curious. The more you learn and apply your knowledge across different areas of tech—from AI to hardware to software—the more successful you’ll be. Robotics isn’t just a career path; it’s a launchpad.
Getting into robotics is a fantastic starting point—it’s versatile, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the future of technology. Robotics opens doors to opportunities in major corporations, especially those focused on innovation and automation. As the field continues to shape the future of work and hardware, your skills will be in high demand.
Big companies are always planning ahead, and the exciting part is—you are the future. Your perspective, creativity, and adaptability give you a unique edge.
Keep evolving and stay curious. The more you learn and apply your knowledge across different areas of tech—from AI to hardware to software—the more successful you’ll be. Robotics isn’t just a career path; it’s a launchpad.
Kumar Suyash
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Kumar’s Answer
Absolutely — yes, you can work at big tech companies like Google or Microsoft with a robotics background. In fact, robotics can be a great path into those companies.
Here’s how it works:
1. Robotics and tech companies overlap a lot Robotics isn’t just about mechanical parts — it combines: Computer Science (programming, algorithms), Electrical Engineering (sensors, circuits), Mechanical Engineering (motion, design), AI & Machine Learning (vision, planning, control)
Big companies need people with exactly those skills — for example: Google DeepMind and Boston Dynamics (robotics + AI), Microsoft Research (autonomous systems, computer vision), Amazon Robotics (warehouse robots), Tesla / NVIDIA (self-driving tech), Meta Reality Labs (robotics and motion in VR/AR)
So your robotics degree doesn’t limit you — it actually opens doors in both robotics and software.
What matters most is your skills: Companies don’t care only about your major. They care about -> How well you can code (especially in C++, Python, or Java), How you think through problems and if you understand data structures, algorithms, and systems.
If you learn those core computer science topics — either during your robotics degree or on your own — you’ll be eligible for the same software engineering roles as CS majors.
Here’s how it works:
1. Robotics and tech companies overlap a lot Robotics isn’t just about mechanical parts — it combines: Computer Science (programming, algorithms), Electrical Engineering (sensors, circuits), Mechanical Engineering (motion, design), AI & Machine Learning (vision, planning, control)
Big companies need people with exactly those skills — for example: Google DeepMind and Boston Dynamics (robotics + AI), Microsoft Research (autonomous systems, computer vision), Amazon Robotics (warehouse robots), Tesla / NVIDIA (self-driving tech), Meta Reality Labs (robotics and motion in VR/AR)
So your robotics degree doesn’t limit you — it actually opens doors in both robotics and software.
What matters most is your skills: Companies don’t care only about your major. They care about -> How well you can code (especially in C++, Python, or Java), How you think through problems and if you understand data structures, algorithms, and systems.
If you learn those core computer science topics — either during your robotics degree or on your own — you’ll be eligible for the same software engineering roles as CS majors.
Arihant Sethia
Principal Technical Program Manager
2
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Arihant’s Answer
The short answer is yes.
However, your question is quite broad. Could you clarify what specifically you are working on in Robotics? Without more details, any response would be speculative.
If you can provide a more descriptive question, the answer above serves as a useful guideline. Keep in mind that pursuing opportunities at major FAANG companies can be unpredictable and may not always lead to the results you expect.
However, your question is quite broad. Could you clarify what specifically you are working on in Robotics? Without more details, any response would be speculative.
If you can provide a more descriptive question, the answer above serves as a useful guideline. Keep in mind that pursuing opportunities at major FAANG companies can be unpredictable and may not always lead to the results you expect.
Rob Shaw
A.D. - Tech Product Development
1
Answer
Morristown, New Jersey
Updated
Rob’s Answer
Hi,
You can definitely get a job at those companies with a robotics background. Robotics is a demanding field with specialized projects. However, employers often look for well-rounded candidates. I suggest taking some courses or online training in other technology areas you find interesting to enhance your resume.
Best wishes,
Rob
You can definitely get a job at those companies with a robotics background. Robotics is a demanding field with specialized projects. However, employers often look for well-rounded candidates. I suggest taking some courses or online training in other technology areas you find interesting to enhance your resume.
Best wishes,
Rob
Mario Ramirez
Leader, Customer Delivery
43
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hola Gonzalo, thanks for posting your question
For sure, yes! What really matters is the experience you can gain and how you align with the company's goals over just what you learn in school.
Take some time to understand the company’s vision and objectives, and think about how you can contribute based on what you’re learning. Try to connect your school projects to real-life situations, so you can identify the skills you still need to develop and the ones you already have.
Felicidades y gracias, saludos desde Mexico
For sure, yes! What really matters is the experience you can gain and how you align with the company's goals over just what you learn in school.
Take some time to understand the company’s vision and objectives, and think about how you can contribute based on what you’re learning. Try to connect your school projects to real-life situations, so you can identify the skills you still need to develop and the ones you already have.
Felicidades y gracias, saludos desde Mexico
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1091
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Gonzalo,
Microsoft and Google are huge companies with all kinds of career options, including robotics. They are also not the only big companies in the tech space. So, don't let that distract you if robotics is your passion.
You could also approach the robotics field from a basis of computer engineering or electrical engineering instead of mechanical engineering if you think that would give you more options with the big players if you want to be flexible. Look for a university that has strong interdisciplinary robotics research with a focus on signals, control, machine learning etc.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.ri.cmu.edu
https://www.eecs.mit.edu/research/explore-all-research-areas/robotics/
https://src.stanford.edu/
https://www.inspiritai.com/blogs/ai-blog/20-top-colleges-to-pursue-a-robotics-engineering-degree
Microsoft and Google are huge companies with all kinds of career options, including robotics. They are also not the only big companies in the tech space. So, don't let that distract you if robotics is your passion.
You could also approach the robotics field from a basis of computer engineering or electrical engineering instead of mechanical engineering if you think that would give you more options with the big players if you want to be flexible. Look for a university that has strong interdisciplinary robotics research with a focus on signals, control, machine learning etc.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
David O'Daniel
I manage service technicians
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
David’s Answer
If you're interested in working with robotics, consider exploring companies in manufacturing where robotics play a key role. To get started with big companies, focus on microprocessor assembly. Instead of targeting software giants like Google or Microsoft, think about hardware leaders like Intel or TSMC. These companies are major players in hardware assembly for integrated circuits in the US.
You can do it!
You can do it!
Jared Yates
System Engineer
2
Answers
Meadville, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jared’s Answer
Absolutely, you can do it! Robotics might not be the main focus at big tech companies like Microsoft or Google, but there are many other large organizations that specialize in this field. The number of these companies is growing, thanks to people like you who are pushing robotics forward. With the increasing popularity of robot vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers, and similar products, there are more opportunities than ever to be part of this exciting industry.