Technicians will often be asked these tasks:

• Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
• Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Controllers are expected to be good at:

• Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate manufacturing systems.
• Working with hand operated industrial machines and power tools.
• Adjusting knobs, levers, and physical or touch sensitive buttons in industrial devices.
• Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

• Training customers or other personnel to installing, using, or maintaining robots.
• Programming complex robotic systems, such as vision systems.
• Maintaining service records of robotic equipment or automated production systems.
• Fabricating housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures, using metalworking machines.
• Documenting robotics testing procedures and results.
• Developing three dimensional simulations of automation systems.
• Inspecting installation sites.
• Modifying computer controlled robot movements.
• Developing robotic path motions for maximizing efficiency, safety, and quality.
• Attaching wires between controllers.
• Assisting engineers in the design, configuration, or application of robotic systems.
• Aligning, fitting, or assembling components, using hand tools, power tools, fixtures, templates, or microscopes.
• Troubleshooting robotic systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, mechanics, sensor or feedback systems, hydraulics, or pneumatics.