Robot Programmer
About The Position
Join a high-performing automation team delivering complex robotic solutions for manufacturing and industrial clients. This hands-on contract opportunity involves programming, integrating, and optimizing multi-robot systems. The work spans varied projects and requires technical expertise and practical problem-solving on the shop floor. Develop, test, and commission robot programs that meet performance, safety, and quality requirements. Working closely with controls engineers and project managers, translate automation concepts into robust, production-ready code. The work directly influences cycle times, throughput, and system reliability for client installations. The role includes on-site commissioning and troubleshooting at customer facilities in Austin, with potential travel to other locations as project needs dictate.
Requirements
- Proven experience programming industrial robots using at least one major platform (FANUC, ABB, or KUKA) in a production or project environment.
- Strong proficiency in at least one programming language such as Python, C, C++, or Structured Text for automation-related applications.
- Hands-on experience with robot simulation and offline programming tools such as RoboGuide, Process Simulate, or similar.
- Practical experience integrating robots with PLCs, including I/O configuration, interlocks, and sequence coordination.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and control system documentation.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues under time constraints at customer sites.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary project teams.
- Willingness to work on-site at customer facilities in Austin and potentially travel to other locations as project needs dictate.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related technical field; an equivalent combination of technical education and substantial hands-on robot programming experience will be considered.
Nice To Haves
- Experience programming PLCs from vendors such as Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) and/or Siemens for automated systems.
- Familiarity with safety-rated control systems, safety PLCs, and functional safety concepts for robotic cells.
- Exposure to vision systems, force/torque sensing, or other advanced robotic peripherals.
- Background in automotive, electronics, or high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Experience with version control, code review practices, and structured software development methodologies.
- Industry certifications in robotics or automation, such as OEM-specific training from FANUC, ABB, or KUKA, are highly preferred.
- Additional training or certification in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) is an advantage.
Responsibilities
- Develop, modify, and optimize robot programs using platforms such as FANUC, ABB, and/or KUKA for new and existing automation cells.
- Create and validate robot paths, sequences, and logic using simulation and offline programming tools before deployment.
- Integrate robot programs with PLCs, HMIs, and peripheral devices, ensuring reliable communication and coordinated operation.
- Configure and tune motion parameters, I/O mapping, safety zones, and error handling to meet project specifications and safety standards.
- Perform on-site commissioning, debugging, and troubleshooting of robotic systems, resolving programming, sequencing, and integration issues.
- Collaborate with mechanical and electrical teams to review cell layouts, tooling, and fixtures for robot reach, accessibility, and cycle-time optimization.
- Document programs, configurations, and change history to support maintenance, future modifications, and knowledge transfer.
- Provide technical support during factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT), including adjustments based on client feedback.
