Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan for Foreigners: Salaries, Visa & How to Apply

Explore Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan for foreigners. Learn about salaries, visa sponsorship, top employers, and how to apply for industrial, AI, and R&D robotics roles in 2026. Japan’s thriving robotics and automation industries, driven by companies like Fanuc, Mitsubishi Electric, and SoftBank Robotics, are constantly seeking skilled robotics engineers. Foreign professionals with expertise in robot design, AI integration, control systems, and industrial automation can find lucrative opportunities with visa sponsorship.

This guide covers job types, salaries, visa options, top employers, requirements, and application steps in 2026.

Why Work as a Robotics Engineer in Japan?

1. High Demand for Skilled Robotics Engineers – Japan’s robotics industry is expanding in manufacturing, healthcare, and service robots.

2. Competitive Salaries – Robotics engineers earn ¥6,000,000 – ¥10,000,000+ per year, depending on experience.

3. Visa Sponsorship Opportunities – Companies sponsor Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa for skilled foreigners.

4. Career Growth – Opportunities to become Senior Robotics Engineer, R&D Specialist, or Robotics Project Manager.

5. Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology – Work with AI, industrial automation, humanoid robots, and autonomous systems.

6. High Quality of Life – Japan offers modern infrastructure, safety, and unique cultural experiences.

Types of Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan

Foreigners can explore different roles depending on specialization:

1. Industrial Robotics Engineer

• Designs, programs, and maintains robotic systems used in manufacturing and automation.

• Salary: ¥6,500,000 – ¥9,500,000/year

2. AI & Robotics R&D Engineer

• Develops AI algorithms, autonomous robots, and machine learning systems.

• Salary: ¥7,000,000 – ¥10,000,000/year

3. Automation & Control Systems Engineer

• Integrates robotics with control systems, PLC programming, and process automation.

• Salary: ¥6,500,000 – ¥9,500,000/year

4. Robotics Software Engineer

• Develops software for robotics applications, simulation, and AI integration.

• Salary: ¥6,000,000 – ¥9,000,000/year

5. Senior Robotics Engineer / Project Manager

• Leads projects, manages engineering teams, and ensures successful deployment of robotic systems.

• Salary: ¥9,000,000 – ¥12,000,000/year

Average Salaries for Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan

Salaries vary depending on city, employer, and experience. Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya typically offer the highest pay.

Top Employers of Robotics Engineers in Japan

Foreigners can find opportunities with:

• Robotics & Automation Companies – Fanuc, Yaskawa Electric, Kawasaki Robotics, Mitsubishi Electric

• Tech & AI Firms – SoftBank Robotics, Sony AI, Toyota Research Institute

• Manufacturing & Automotive – Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Panasonic

• Research Institutions & Universities – RIKEN, University of Tokyo, Osaka University

• Consulting & Engineering Firms – Hitachi, NEC Corporation, Fujitsu

Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Robotics Engineers

Foreigners typically require a work visa to work legally in Japan:

• Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa – Most common for robotics and engineering roles

• Highly Skilled Professional Visa – Points-based fast-track visa for top talent

• Employer Sponsorship – Companies assist with visa applications, legal documentation, and relocation

• Relocation Support – Some employers provide housing, flights, and settling-in assistance

Requirements for Robotics Engineering Jobs

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering

• Experience in robot design, AI, automation, or control systems

• Knowledge of robotics programming languages (C++, Python, ROS) and industrial automation

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills

• English proficiency; Japanese language skills are an advantage but not always required

• Optional certifications: PLC programming, ROS, AI/ML certifications

How to Apply for Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan

1: Prepare Your Resume

• Use a Japanese-style CV or international CV, highlighting degrees, certifications, projects, and technical skills

2: Assess Qualifications

• Ensure your qualifications are recognized or relevant for robotics and engineering roles

3: Apply Online

• Company Career Portals – Fanuc, Yaskawa, Mitsubishi Electric, SoftBank Robotics

• LinkedIn Japan Jobs – filter for robotics engineering positions with visa sponsorship

• Indeed Japan & Glassdoor Japan – search for positions offering relocation or visa support

4: Prepare for Interviews

• Technical interview: robot programming, automation, AI algorithms, system design

• Behavioral interview: teamwork, problem-solving, and project management

5: Visa & Relocation

• Employer sponsors Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa or Highly Skilled Professional visa

• Relocation support may include housing, flights, and legal documentation

Best Locations for Robotics Engineering Jobs in Japan

• Tokyo – Robotics R&D, software, and tech companies

• Osaka – Industrial robotics and manufacturing

• Nagoya – Automotive and industrial robotics hub

• Kyoto – Research, AI, and university-affiliated robotics labs

• Fukuoka – Emerging robotics startups and innovation hubs

Tips to Increase Your Chances

• Highlight robot design, AI integration, or industrial automation experience on your CV.
• Apply to companies offering visa sponsorship or relocation support.
• Learn Japanese language basics to improve employability.
• Obtain certifications in ROS, PLC, or AI/ML for robotics.
• Network via LinkedIn, robotics conferences, and Japanese engineering associations.

Final Thoughts

For foreign professionals, robotics engineering jobs in Japan offer high-paying, rewarding, and internationally recognized career opportunities. With demand for skilled engineers rising in industrial automation, AI, and manufacturing, now is the perfect time to pursue a career in Japan.

If you have the right qualifications, technical expertise, and certifications, Japan provides an excellent environment to advance your career while enjoying cutting-edge technology and unique cultural experiences.