How to Get a Better Robotics Job After a Lay-Off or Redundancy

Contents

• Understanding Redundancy in Robotics

• Step 1: Process the Setback and Refocus Your Vision

• Step 2: Define Your Robotics Niche and Strengths

• Step 3: Refresh Your CV and Technical Portfolio

• Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn, GitHub, and Project Demos

• Step 5: Reach Out to Recruiters and Employers

• Step 6: Apply Strategically and Follow Up

• Step 7: Upskill in Robotics Frameworks and Emerging Tech

• Step 8: Explore Contract, Cross-Industry or Research Roles

• Step 9: Protect Your Finances and Maintain Balance

• Bonus: Top UK Robotics Employers Hiring in 2025

• Final Thoughts: Redundancy as Realignment

Understanding Redundancy in Robotics

Redundancy often comes from funding shifts, product roadmap changes, or market cycles. It doesn't diminish your value or future potential.

The UK robotics sector remains strong in areas such as:

• Autonomous vehicles and navigation

• Surgical and assistive robotics

• Agricultural and industrial automation

• SLAM, ROS-based systems, and machine vision

• Human-robot interaction (HRI) and safety engineering

Step 1: Process the Setback and Refocus Your Vision

• Take time to acknowledge your achievements and reset your goals

• Reflect on whether you want to stay in R&D, product development, or move toward applications or strategy

• Think about sectors that excite you most (e.g. medtech, logistics, space, defence, education)

Step 2: Define Your Robotics Niche and Strengths

Clarify your focus:

• Software (e.g. C++, Python, ROS, Gazebo, MoveIt)

• Hardware (e.g. mechatronics, control systems, PCB design)

• AI/ML integration (e.g. perception, path planning, sensor fusion)

• Prototyping and testing in real-world environments

Step 3: Refresh Your CV and Technical Portfolio

Make it results-driven:

• Use a focused headline (e.g. “Robotics Software Engineer | ROS | Open to Work”)

• Include metrics (e.g. “Reduced path execution time by 25% using optimised trajectory planning”)

• List platforms, tools, and sensors used

• Link to GitHub, code samples, videos, or CAD demos

Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn, GitHub, and Project Demos

LinkedIn Tips:

• Headline: “Robotics Engineer | SLAM | ROS | Python | Open to Work”

• About section: Mention experience, current focus, and goals

• Add media such as videos, research posters, or GitHub links

GitHub Tips:

• Share working ROS packages, simulation environments, or vision models

• Include clean documentation, launch files, and config guides

Sample LinkedIn About Section:

Robotics Software Engineer | ROS | C++ | Open to Work

I’m a robotics engineer with 4+ years’ experience in SLAM, perception systems, and embedded navigation using ROS, C++ and Python. Recently made redundant due to company restructuring, I’m looking to contribute to innovative robotics projects with real-world impact.

Toolset: ROS1/ROS2, Gazebo, OpenCV, MoveIt, Jetson, Git, CAN protocols

Step 5: Reach Out to Recruiters and Employers

Recruiter Message Example:

Subject: Robotics Engineer | SLAM & ROS | Available Immediately

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I’m currently seeking new opportunities in robotics software following a redundancy. I have 4 years of experience in autonomous navigation, SLAM, and system integration. Please find my CV and GitHub attached.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn]
[GitHub]
[CV attachment]

Hiring Manager Follow-Up Example:

Subject: Application – Robotics Integration Engineer Role at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I recently applied for your Robotics Integration Engineer role and wanted to reaffirm my interest. I bring hands-on experience in robotic navigation, ROS integration, and rapid prototyping. Redundant due to project funding closure, I’m ready to contribute immediately.

Please find my CV attached. I’d be glad to discuss further.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Step 6: Apply Strategically and Follow Up

• Target companies aligned with your skills and interests

• Tailor each application to highlight specific tools (e.g. ROS2, LiDAR, SLAM)

• Keep an application tracker and follow up after 7–10 days

• Use www.roboticsjobs.co.uk and forums like ROS Discourse or Robotics Stack Exchange

Step 7: Upskill in Robotics Frameworks and Emerging Tech

Use redundancy time to level up:

• ROS2 and MoveIt 2

• Embedded AI, real-time systems

• Simulation tools (Isaac Sim, Webots, Unity Robotics Hub)

• Edge deployment and cloud integration (e.g. AWS RoboMaker)

• Short courses on Udacity, Coursera, or edX

Document your learning in GitHub or project blogs.

Step 8: Explore Contract, Cross-Industry or Research Roles

• Look for freelance or short-term robotics projects

• Consider roles in defence, medical, logistics, or agriculture

• Apply to research fellowships or R&D labs in universities

• Contribute to open-source robotics or collaborative innovation platforms

Step 9: Protect Your Finances and Maintain Balance

• Apply for redundancy pay, Universal Credit, or JSA

• Use budgeting tools like MoneyHelper or Turn2Us

• Structure your week around job search, learning, rest and social time

• Connect with peers through robotics meetups, Slack groups, or hackathons

Bonus: Top UK Robotics Employers Hiring in 2025

1. Dyson Robotics Lab

2. Ocado Technology

3. Shadow Robot Company

4. Cambridge Consultants

5. CMR Surgical

6. BAE Systems

7. Wayve

8. Oxbotica

9. Small Robot Company

10. Tharsus Group

11. Rolls-Royce Innovation Hub

12. UCL Robotics Institute

13. Arrival

14. Imperial College spinouts (e.g. Mirobot)

15. NVIDIA UK Robotics Team

Final Thoughts: Redundancy as Realignment

Being made redundant is difficult, but it can also be the catalyst for your next great opportunity in robotics. With smart positioning and active networking, you can transition into a more aligned, exciting role.

You’re not starting from scratch. You’re re-entering with skills, clarity and momentum.

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