R&D Engineer

R&D Engineer

Location: Johnston, Iowa (On-site)

Role Overview

We are seeking an R&D Engineer to contribute to key projects involving the integration of PLC systems with robotics. This role involves full project lifecycle ownership, from specification and design through to deployment and support. The successful candidate will operate in an ownership-driven environment, working independently to maintain and enhance complex industrial automation systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the full project lifecycle, including specification, design, development, deployment, and feedback.
• Maintain and support existing industrial automation systems, absorbing work from a retiring team member.
• Architect, develop, and maintain desktop and embedded .NET applications that interface with industrial hardware, including cameras, sensors, and robotic systems.
• Write and maintain PLC programs using Structured Text (IEC 61131-3), preferably on Beckhoff TwinCAT platforms.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot robot controllers, integrating robotic routines into broader automation workflows.
• Implement and debug industrial protocols such as MQTT, MODBUS, and EtherCAT.
• Operate independently and manage your own backlog and priorities in a less structured, ownership-heavy environment.

Required Qualifications

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on .NET C# experience specifically within an industrial automation context. Experience must not be in desktop applications, gaming, or purely software environments.
• A minimum of 5 years of PLC programming experience using Structured Text (IEC 61131-3).
• Demonstrated experience working directly with machines, devices, and manufacturing systems in an industrial setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotics programming, particularly with Epson robots (RC+).
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++, or C.
• Experience with Beckhoff PLC platforms.

Work Expectations

• This position is 100% on-site in Johnston, IA, with an on-site final interview required.
• An independent work style is necessary, with the ability to operate with autonomy after an initial ramp-up period of approximately one to two months.
• The role is expected to last through December, with the potential for extension or conversion.

Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

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Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.

Everforth Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Everforth Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.

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