Here at Alexander Daniels Global, we’re experts in industry 4.0 recruitment across the world. Focusing on engineering, manufacturing, software and logistics from entry level to C-suite. So you can trust us when we say we know exactly what makes an excellent candidate.
In our guide we’ll explain the skills you need if you’re looking to make the move into Robotic Process Automation as well as the skills you need to look out for when hiring a candidate in the industry.
What is Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?
Despite having “robotic” in its name, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) doesn’t involve robots in the traditional sense, rather, it involves software robots. And, put simply, automates repetitive tasks like entering data, filling out forms and generating reports at volume to increase business efficiency.
Robotic Process Automation works together with existing software and can follow predefined workflows with minimal intervention needed from external sources. Advanced models can even learn and make intelligent decisions when combined with AI and Machine Learning technology.
As well as increasing productivity within the business, Robotic Process Automation reduces the risk of human error when it comes to data entry and ensures consistency, which can help businesses to comply with regulatory and business processes.
While Robotic Process Automation can be utilized across a number of industries, it’s mainly been adopted across finance, HR, logistics and healthcare.
7 Essential Skills for Robotic Process Automation Professionals
Robotic Process Automation job roles require a strong technical background in order to manage automation solutions successfully. So, if you’re looking to build you skill stack, or looking to hire the latest talent in the industry, we recommend exploring the following skills.
1. Programming Skills
While some basic RPA tools involve low or no code software, candidates with a background in computer programming will be able to demonstrate a deeper knowledge of how to deploy bots, and develop more complex logic solutions. Some of the core programming languages to be aware of include;
- Python: A good knowledge of Python will allow businesses to deploy AI-driven automation, manipulate data and integrate Machine Learning models with existing robotic process automation processes.
- Java: Understanding Java will help programmers to integrate RPA into backend systems.
- C#/.NET: Knowledge of how to use C#/.NET is essential for businesses working with Microsoft-based applications.
EXAMPLE: Automate competitor research when hiring candidates with Python or Java programming. Bots can scrape the web for competitors’ online pricing and automatically feed the data onto a pricing dashboard.
2. Experience Using RPA Tools and Software
Robotic Process Automation can be deployed via several different programs or tools. If you’re looking for a candidate to develop your businesses automation programs, it’s a green flag to see experience with RPA tools on their CV.
Some of the most well-known RPA tools include;
EXAMPLE: Choosing a candidate with experience building automations with RPA tools could be the first step towards increased efficiency in your business. A RPA professional could have experience developing automations to process invoices ready for payment processing.
3. API and Database Experience
One of the main benefits of utilizing Robotic Programming Automation within your business is its ability to communicate between different systems and automate processes between them. An API allows integration between two or more different applications, which makes API experience a desirable skill.
APIs are often used to connect different external programs such as CRM systems, SQL databases and data warehousing. RPA bots can work between these two programs to retrieve, update and manage the data in the system.
EXAMPLE: An ecommerce company holds customer data in its CRM along with a SQL database for transactional data. Instead of manually entering the data from one system to another, a RPA can work alongside an API to retrieve customer purchase data from the SQL database and update the CRM system accordingly.
4. Cybersecurity Skills
Working with large sets of data can be risky if proper data protection and cybersecurity measures are not adhered to. Candidates with experience working with data securely are more desirable as they have a proven track record preventing vulnerabilities such as data breaches and unauthorized access.
Choosing a RPA professional with a good knowledge of cybersecurity means that bots will align with regulatory compliance such as GDPR and HIPAA.
EXAMPLE: A financial services firm keeps financial data safe by analyzing system activity through an RPA and reporting any potential security threats.
5. Logical Thinking and Algorithm Development
Candidates with strong logical thinking and algorithm development skills can help businesses to maximize efficiency and scale their automations as the business grows.
Robotic Process Automation professionals should have experience in mapping processes and designing decision trees to identify if there are any steps that cannot be automated, and to minimize the number of steps in the process, to make it as efficient as possible.
EXAMPLE: An automotive manufacturing company needs to manage purchase orders, inventory levels and supply communications efficiently to prevent delays. By using logical thinking, a RPA professional can automate when purchase orders need a human review and when issues need to be escalated to the procurement team.
6. Testing and Debugging Skills
Testing and debugging robotic process automations ensures that the bots can operate in dynamic environments to prevent errors and system failure. Candidates with a proven track record in testing and debugging programming are more likely to ensure that automationsremain efficient and reliable.
Best practices include incorporating a troubleshooting approach to follow the process step-by-step to identify and locate the issue. RPA professionals should be able to program bots to handle any exceptions to the algorithm, eliminate errors and handle any unexpected scenarios without breaking the process.
EXAMPLE: A 3D printing company uses a RPA bot to monitor the production line, by collecting sensor data from the 3D printers. By collecting and processing the data the RPA bot can alert the quality control team when maintenance is needed.
7. Communication Skills
Robotic Process Automation careers rely heavily on technical skills, such as programming and logic. However, it’s important not to neglect the value of communication in a role like this. To develop successful automations there must be clear communication between development teams as well as internal and external stakeholders within the business.
Looking for Your Next Role or Hiring for Your Next Robotic Process Automation Professionals?
If you’re a developer or programmer looking to move into Robotic Process Automation, get in touch with our helpful team to find your next role or see the latest vacancies on our Jobs Board. We also have a wealth of resources to help you stay on top of Industry 4.0 trends.
If you’re looking to expand your team by hiring a Robotic Process Automation Professional, the team at Alexander Daniels Global can help you find the best fit for the role. Simply contact us today to find out how we can help!
