Automation Engineer - Robotics

Description

WHAT FLEXWARE DOES

Manufacturers are the backbone of innovation-powering industries, improving lives, and keeping the world moving forward. That's where Flexware Innovation comes in. Behind every great product is a complex web of machines, technology, data, and people working together to make it happen. Flexware partners with manufacturers to guide their strategy and execute the solutions that bring it to life.

Founded in 1996, Flexware's teams of talented advisors and engineers leverage technology across industrial controls, manufacturing systems integration, software development, data engineering and management, and the ever-evolving landscape of emerging technologies.

Flexware is made up of problem-solvers, builders, and collaborators who care deeply about doing work that matters. We roll up our sleeves, dive into the details, and create solutions that stand the test of time, because our customers count on us to keep production moving.

Today, Flexware is growing with fresh momentum and purpose. We're investing in innovation, in our people, and in a culture where you can do your best work while living a balanced, meaningful life

WHAT YOU WILL DO

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to provide on-site technical ownership of robotic and automated manufacturing systems. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys being close to the production floor, thrives in dynamic environments, and excels at troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems while collaborating closely with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.

This engineer will act as the primary technical point of contact for automated systems-supporting commissioning, daily operations, continuous improvement, and issue resolution. Success in this role requires not only strong technical skills, but also excellent communication, documentation, and relationship-building abilities.

Here are some of the technologies and responsibilities that you will be responsible for:

Automation & Robotics Support

• Serve as the primary on-site support engineer for robotic and automated manufacturing systems.
• Troubleshoot system downtime, performance issues, and intermittent faults at the equipment, PLC, robot, and sensor levels.
• Perform root cause analysis to understand why systems are being bypassed or underutilized and drive corrective actions.
• Support commissioning, re-commissioning, and startup of new or previously dormant equipment.
• Make real-time decisions on system issues and determine when escalation to internal or external engineering teams is required.

Controls & Software

• Diagnose and resolve issues using Allen-Bradley PLCs and ladder logic.
• Support FANUC robotics systems, including basic to intermediate robot programming and troubleshooting.
• Work with Cognex Vision Systems, including barcode scanning and 3D vision (3DV) applications.
• Use change management and version control tools (e.g., FactoryTalk AssetCentre or similar) to manage control system updates.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, IO maps, and system documentation.

Hands-On Technical & Maintenance Support

• Perform basic mechanical and electrical tasks when appropriate (e.g., sensor replacement, cable repairs, mechanical adjustments).
• Collaborate closely with maintenance teams; independently handle tasks where permitted to minimize downtime.
• Follow all site safety requirements and coordinate with Qualified Electrical Workers (QEW) when required.

Operational Collaboration

• Build strong working relationships with operators, maintenance, engineering, and operations leadership.
• Attend daily operations stand-ups and weekly engineering reviews to identify emerging issues and priorities.
• Proactively identify opportunities to improve system usability, reliability, and manufacturing friendliness.
• Act as a trusted technical partner rather than an enforcer-supporting adoption through credibility and collaboration.

Documentation & Communication

• Maintain detailed and organized documentation of findings, issues, fixes, trends, and system changes.
• Communicate status, risks, and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Provide handoffs and summaries to ensure continuity during weekends, off-shifts, or on-call coverage.

Please note that we are not interviewing candidates that require sponsorship now or in the future

WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE DONE BEFORE

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Controls, or related field) or equivalent hands-on automation experience.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical, electrical, controls, and robotic systems.
• Working experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and ladder logic.
• Hands-on experience with FANUC industrial robots (programming or troubleshooting).
• Experience supporting manufacturing, assembly, or automated production equipment.
• Ability to manage multiple issues simultaneously and self-prioritize work in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent documentation and note-taking habits.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build trust with operators and site teams.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• FANUC robot programming coursework or certification.
• Experience with Cognex Vision Systems, including 3DV.
• Familiarity with FactoryTalk AssetCentre (or similar controls versioning systems).
• Exposure to regulated or life sciences manufacturing environments.
• Commissioning experience for automated production lines.
• Maintenance background or comfort performing hands-on equipment work.
• Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW) certification or willingness to obtain.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.