Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineer | Custom Machinery & Industrial Automation

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Overtime: Time and a half for hours over 45 per week; double time on Sundays and holidays

Travel: 20-40%

About the Opportunity

Engtal Staffing and Recruiting is partnering with a leading manufacturer of custom machinery and automation systems in the Grand Rapids area to identify a Robotics Engineer. This role is responsible for the programming, simulation, integration, startup, and support of robotic automation systems. The successful candidate will work with minimal supervision, supporting projects from development through installation and commissioning while providing technical guidance to field service personnel and project stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, program, test, and troubleshoot robotic systems for standard machine applications using established designs, standards, and company templates
• Create robot cell simulations and offline programs, including layout validation, reach studies, interference checks, and cycle time estimates
• Integrate robots with PLC, HMI, safety, and vision systems, verifying communication, handshaking, fault handling, and overall system functionality
• Lead robotic system startup and commissioning activities, coordinating installation support and resolving outstanding technical issues
• Support Controls Engineers with PLC and HMI programming during machine build, startup, troubleshooting, and upgrade projects
• Support machine risk assessments and ensure compliance with applicable robotic safety standards, including ANSI/RIA and ISO 10218
• Follow established safety practices, including lockout/tagout and robot safeguarding procedures, throughout build, startup, and field activities
• Provide technical instruction to Field Service Engineers on system operation, startup, and troubleshooting
• Assist with onboarding and technical development of Robotics Engineer I team members
• Communicate safety, technical, schedule, and project concerns promptly to the appropriate team members

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience
• Experience programming, integrating, and troubleshooting industrial robotic systems
• Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, machine controls, and industrial automation systems
• Experience integrating robotic systems with PLC, safety, and vision systems
• Experience with robotic simulation and offline programming, including reach studies, cell layout validation, and cycle time analysis
• Understanding of robot safeguarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and applicable robotic safety standards
• Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, mechanical layouts, and technical documentation
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple projects and priorities
• Willingness to travel to customer locations for installation, startup, and commissioning activities (20-40%)

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay of $50-60 per hour
• Overtime pay at time and a half for hours over 45 per week
• Double time on Sundays and holidays