Robotics Install & Commissioning Technician

Formic•Chicago, IL

13d•$30 - $40•Onsite

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. The Robotics Install & Commissioning Technician plays a critical role in bringing Formic’s robotic systems from concept to full-scale operation. This role supports end-to-end internal system integration—translating requirements into deployed, commissioned solutions through hands-on fabrication, coding, configuration, pre-installation, in-house validation, and on-site installation at customer facilities. It is a deeply technical, highly collaborative position offering direct exposure to a wide range of real-world robotic deployments. Working in close partnership with Formic’s Deployment, Production Optimization, and Software Engineering teams, you will help deliver systems on schedule while ensuring a seamless, world-class customer experience. You will be central to enabling fast-turn, high-quality automation for manufacturers through Formic’s Robots-as-a-Service model. In a dynamic startup environment, this role demands versatility. You may contribute to new product development, system testing, and troubleshooting as needed - wearing multiple hats while driving tangible outcomes. As an early member of a rapidly scaling team, your work will have a visible, lasting impact on both our customers and the company’s trajectory, while accelerating your own professional growth. Formic is redefining how manufacturers adopt robotics, and we’re seeking a hands-on, mission-driven technician ready to help build that future from the ground up.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
3+ years of hands-on experience with industrial 6-axis robots in installation, maintenance, repair, programming, troubleshooting, or technical support roles
3+ years of experience installing and commissioning industrial machinery
Willingness to travel up to 50-60% of the time
Highly action-oriented with strong problem-solving instincts and the ability to navigate unfamiliar challenges independently
Clear, confident communicator - both written and verbal
Comfortable using hand tools and working in hands-on technical environments
Strong PC and general technical proficiency
Valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle for local travel (mileage reimbursed per Formic policy)
Ability to lift 50+ pounds
Based in - or willing to relocate to - the greater Chicago, IL area, with the ability to work five days per week from Formic’s Woodridge, IL office

Nice To Haves

Automation experience with end-of-line systems such as robotic palletizing, depalletizing, and/or case packing preferred, but not required

Responsibilities

Support internal systems integration for robotics-driven automation solutions, including mechanical and electrical setup, system quality checks, documentation, testing, program updates, troubleshooting, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and final system pack-out
Install and commission Formic solutions at customer sites in close collaboration with Deployment Engineers and Project Managers—handling mechanical installation, power-up, testing, troubleshooting, fine-tuning, performance validation, and final documentation
Support refurbishment and reconditioning of returned systems as needed
Assist in identifying, validating, and testing solutions both in the field and throughout the deployment lifecycle
Test and troubleshoot new automation solutions under development
Adhere to Formic’s standardized processes, tools, SOPs, and all applicable legal and safety requirements during integration, configuration, and testing activities

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