Engineer Technician - R&D and Automation

Smith & Associates•Houston, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Engineering Technician plays a critical role in supporting the R&D and Automation department in the design, development, and global deployment of proprietary hardware and software solutions. This role bridges the gap between mechanical design, robotic integration, and advanced software engineering to drive operational profitability and technical excellence.

Requirements

Expertise in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, HTML/CSS, and specialized industrial languages (e.g., ZPL).
Practical experience with OpenCV and a basic understanding of AI training vs. inference workflows.
Advanced administration of Windows, OSX, and Linux environments.
Foundational networking knowledge (Cisco, Ubiquiti).
Proficiency in 3D CAD software and a solid grasp of industrial optics.
Proven ability to act as a proactive problem-solver in high-pressure, fast-paced R&D environments.

Nice To Haves

AI experience with RAG systems, local model deployment, or ML/AI development.
Familiarity with AWS (EC2, S3, RDS) and CI/CD practices (Git).
A+ Certification or specialized Python/Software Engineering certificates

Responsibilities

Develop and deploy proprietary software (Python, Rust, JS/TS) to automate hardware and logistics workflows.
Write, test, and deploy critical code patches for corporate-level software to minimize external licensing costs.
Identify manual bottlenecks and develop utility scripts or automation frameworks to generate cost savings and increase operational speed.
Adhere to Smith Policy network security standards and maintain meticulous documentation of all software modifications and component obsolescence.
Support the selection, mounting, and calibration of industrial cameras and specialized lighting to optimize image acquisition.
Develop basic image processing scripts (filtering, thresholding, contour detection) to assist in feature extraction for inspection systems.
Assist in deploying inference models on edge devices, including data labeling, dataset management, and accuracy testing for anomaly detection.
Assist in the physical installation, basic point-to-point teaching, and routine calibration of industrial arms.
Utilize 3D modeling software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) to design custom mechanical components, brackets, and enclosures.
Manage 3D printing workflows and physical assembly of prototype stations.
Install and upgrade complex components (CPUs, RAM, storage) in x86 and embedded systems across global sites.