A Rough Week for iRobot, but a Bright Future for Robotics
It’s been a challenging week in the world of robotics. iRobot, the maker of popular Roomba vacuum cleaners, is facing significant layoffs after Amazon dropped its bid to acquire the company due to regulatory concerns. The layoffs amount to 350 people, nearly one-third of iRobot’s global workforce.
The Human Side of Layoffs
As someone who has gone through a layoff or two myself, I can attest that it’s never an easy experience. There’s always a sense of shame and uncertainty about what the future holds. But let’s be clear: layoffs are rarely the individual’s fault. Often, they’re the result of macro factors beyond our control.
The Bright Spot: Robotics is Thriving
While iRobot’s struggles may seem dire, the broader robotics industry is actually thriving. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of automation in various industries, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Job Opportunities in Robotics
If you’re looking for a new role in robotics, there are plenty of opportunities available. Here are some companies that have job openings:
- Agtonomy: 6 roles
- Amazon Robotics: 10 roles
- Ambi Robotics: 1 role
- ANYbotics: 27 roles
- Autodesk: 1 role
- Berkshire Grey: 20 roles
- Bonsai Robotics: 6 roles
- Boston Dynamics: 10 roles
- BRINC: 15 roles
- Burro: 10 roles
- Chef Robotics: 6 roles
- Exotec: 177 roles
- Farm-ng: 4 roles
- Figure: 20 roles
- Formant: 6 roles
- Four Growers: 4 roles
- Freefly Systems: 7 roles
- Guardian Agriculture: 5 roles
- House of Design Robotics: 4 roles
- Kewazo: 2 roles
- Matic Robots: 12 roles
- Monumental: 10 roles
- Neya Systems: 6 roles
- Picogrid: 4 roles
- Polymath Robotics: 1 role
- Roboto AI: 1 role
- Skip: 2 roles
- Stratom: 3 roles
- Vention: 15 roles
- WiBotic: 3 roles
Decentralization and Remote Work
One of the silver linings of the pandemic is that it has decentralized the workforce. Many companies are now open to hiring remotely, which means you can apply for jobs even if you’re not based in a hot spot like Boston or Pittsburgh.
Conclusion
While iRobot’s struggles may be a sobering reminder of the challenges facing any company, the broader robotics industry is actually thriving. If you’re looking for a new role in robotics, there are plenty of opportunities available. Remember to stay positive and keep an eye on these companies – they may be your ticket to a bright future.
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