Robotics Deployment Project Manager

Formic•Chicago, IL

25d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Formic, we’re on a mission to revolutionize American manufacturing and create more abundance in the world. We believe in continuing the American legacy of innovation by making automation accessible to all manufacturers and increasing their factory productivity by 10x. Built upon deep expertise in robotics and manufacturing, our unique full service automation solutions combine the best automation technology, software, and analysis tools for manufacturers with best in class uptime, support, and maintenance services. We are creating a new era of supercharged efficiency and competitiveness for US manufacturers. As the world faces growing pressure from tariffs, rising costs, and labor shortages, Formic is uniquely positioned as the industry leading solution to overcome these challenges. Fueled by our vision for a re-industrialized domestic supply chain, everything we do is aimed at growing “Made in America” products. And we’re growing fast - achieving 7x growth in production hours YoY. Supporting us in our mission, with investments thus far totaling over $60 million, are backers including Lux Capital, Initialized Capital, Blackhorn Ventures, Mitsubishi HC Capital NA, and CEOs and founders of multiple Fortune 50 companies. The Deployment Team is responsible for managing the deployment of robotics-centric automation solutions in a variety of different applications at customer sites. The ideal candidate for Robotic Deployment Project Management position is detail-oriented and has a successful track record of managing the deployment of robotic automation projects for a variety of discrete manufacturing requirements. They will strategically lead deployment projects–partnering with customers, engineering teams, and suppliers–while overseeing third party robotics integrators who perform much of the hands-on implementation work. In this role you will: Strategically plan and manage robotics-centric automation solutions for a variety of different clients and applications, overseeing all aspects of deployment Support defining project scopes, gathering project requirements, and validating proposals in cooperation with Formic Applications/Solutions Engineers and third party robotics system integrators Develop and track project plans and monitor progress to ensure deadlines, standards, and cost targets are met Facilitate the resolution of issues that surface in the deployment process Play an active role in building, standardizing, and refining our internal processes and operations. This is a great opportunity to leverage your own experience and knowledge–as well as your learnings here at Formic–to make an impact by shaping our Deployment/Project Management function as we grow

Requirements

5+ years of project management experience in technically complex manufacturing environments
3+ years of prior automation/robotics experience
Strong communication skills (both written and spoken) and ability to influence
Ability to skillfully manage a diverse set of team members and stakeholders
Hunger to learn, grow, and make an impact in a fast-paced environment
Action-oriented with strong problem-solving skills
Willingness to travel up to 35-40% of time in this position
For any local travel, as needed: Valid driver's license and a reliable vehicle
You’re located in - or open to relocate to - either the greater Chicago, IL area and work occasionally, as needed, in our Woodridge, IL office

Nice To Haves

Automation experience, including end-of-line automation, robotic palletizing, de-palletizing, and/or case-packing is preferred, though not required
Experience working with industrial robots and/or cobots including Fanuc, Kuka, Yaskawa, ABB, or Universal Robots
Experience working with or for an industrial robotics System Integrator

Responsibilities

Strategically plan and manage robotics-centric automation solutions for a variety of different clients and applications, overseeing all aspects of deployment
Support defining project scopes, gathering project requirements, and validating proposals in cooperation with Formic Applications/Solutions Engineers and third party robotics system integrators
Develop and track project plans and monitor progress to ensure deadlines, standards, and cost targets are met
Facilitate the resolution of issues that surface in the deployment process
Play an active role in building, standardizing, and refining our internal processes and operations. This is a great opportunity to leverage your own experience and knowledge–as well as your learnings here at Formic–to make an impact by shaping our Deployment/Project Management function as we grow

Benefits

Equity in Formic: Own a meaningful stake in a fast-growing Series A startup, backed by leading global investors
Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: 99% covered Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans, with 75% coverage for dependents, provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield and Guardian
Additional Fully Covered Insurance Benefits: FSA & DCFSA, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability through Guardian, all 100% employer-paid
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Fully funded by Formic and provided via Guardian, offering support when you need it most
Paid Parental Leave: Generous parental leave to support our employees and their growing families
Company-sponsored 401(k): Invest in your future with our company-backed retirement savings plan
Home Office Stipend: A one-time allowance for fully remote employees to set up your ideal at-home or on the road work environment
Monthly Cell-Phone Reimbursement: Monthly stipend toward phone and internet expenses
Flexible Time-Off: Take the time you need, when you need it, supported by our flexible PTO policy
Paid Company Holidays: Celebrate important dates with paid time off