Robotics Engineer
About The Position
This is a hands-on contract role supporting industrial automation projects across Michigan. The Robotics Engineer designs, develops, and integrates robotic systems to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety. Working with cross-functional engineering and operations teams, the role turns automation requirements into functional robotic cells that combine mechanical design, controls, and software. The work supports production lines and process improvements, with ownership of robotic cells from concept through commissioning. The position includes designing robotic cells and automation solutions, developing robot-control and integration software, programming PLCs, and integrating robots with industrial equipment. It also involves CAD design, simulation and validation, on-site installation and commissioning, and technical support and optimization of existing systems. The posting requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline, although an associate degree with substantial relevant experience may be considered. Professional certifications are advantageous, and ongoing professional development is preferred.
Requirements
- Proven experience as a Robotics Engineer on industrial automation projects in manufacturing or similar environments.
- Strong proficiency in robotics system design, including cell layout, safety considerations, and integration with existing equipment.
- Solid C++ and Python development skills applied to robotics, controls, or automation.
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming, such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar systems.
- Proficiency with CAD software for mechanical design and drafting of components and assemblies.
- Ability to take projects from concept through design, build, and commissioning under time and budget constraints.
- Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, and software issues on site.
- Effective communication skills for collaborating with engineering, production, and maintenance teams.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related discipline; an associate degree with substantial relevant robotics and automation experience may be considered.
Nice To Haves
- Experience setting up and programming major industrial robot brands such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or Yaskawa.
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, or OPC UA.
- Exposure to machine vision systems and their integration into robotic applications.
- Knowledge of safety standards and risk assessments related to robotic and automated machinery.
- Experience with robot simulation tools or offline programming environments.
- Background in high-volume automotive or tier-1 supplier manufacturing environments.
- Professional certifications in robotics, PLC programming, or industrial automation.
- Ongoing professional development or training in advanced robotics, controls, or automation technologies.
Responsibilities
- Design robotic cells and automation solutions, including layouts, tooling, end-of-arm tooling, and safety guarding.
- Develop and implement C++ and Python software for robot control, motion planning, and system integration.
- Program and configure PLCs for sequencing, interlocks, I/O handling, and communication with robots and peripheral devices.
- Integrate robots with sensors, conveyors, vision systems, and other industrial equipment.
- Produce detailed CAD models and mechanical designs for fixtures, brackets, and custom mechanical components.
- Conduct system simulations, offline programming, and validation before deployment.
- Lead on-site installation, commissioning, and debugging of robotic systems in manufacturing environments.
- Provide technical support, troubleshoot, and optimize existing robotic cells to improve uptime and cycle times.
