Automation / Robotics Engineering

Robotics Automation Engineer | Onsite | Middlebury, IN

The Robotics Engineer will lead the programming, optimization, and support of new automated robotic welding equipment for a high-volume commercial shelving manufacturing line. This role focuses on Fanuc robotic welding systems and PLC-based controls, ensuring reliable production, high-quality welds, and efficient automation. The engineer will work primarily on the manufacturing floor, collaborating closely with production, quality, and controls teams to launch and refine a newly installed automated production line.

Develop, modify, and optimize Fanuc robot programs for welding applications on a new automated shelving manufacturing line.

Perform robot teaching, path adjustments, touch-ups, and recovery in both active production and pre-commissioning environments.

Support rapid program adjustments to address production issues, engineering changes, and process improvements.

Lead or support robot cell start-up activities, including offline system work and commissioning when required.

Troubleshoot robot alarms, motion issues, and sequence ladder logic to minimize downtime and restore stable operation.

Provide on-floor programming and technical support during peak programming, launch, and commissioning periods.

Collaborate closely with Quality teams to resolve process issues and improve weld quality, part accuracy, and repeatability.

Support containment actions and fast-turn engineering changes during builds to keep production on schedule.

Coordinate with controls and electrical teams to validate I/O, interlocks, and basic handshaking between robots, PLCs, and other automation equipment.

Set up, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems, with a focus on Allen-Bradley platforms, to integrate robotic cells with the broader manufacturing line.

Apply automation, controls engineering, and electrical engineering principles to ensure reliable operation of robotic weld equipment.

Follow all safety procedures and best practices during programming, commissioning, and floor support activities.

Work safely and effectively in an active manufacturing and commissioning environment, frequently on the production floor alongside operations and support teams.

5+ years of experience in robotic programming and integration, with a focus on industrial automation.

• Hands-on experience with Fanuc robotics, including programming, teaching, and troubleshooting robotic welding applications.
• Strong experience in robotics programming for welding processes and automated manufacturing.
• Experience with PLC setup, programming, and troubleshooting, preferably with Allen-Bradley PLCs.
• Solid understanding of automation systems, controls engineering, and electrical engineering as they relate to robotic weld equipment.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot robot alarms, motion issues, and ladder logic sequences in a production environment.
• Ability to coordinate with controls teams to validate I/O, interlocks, and handshaking between robots and PLCs.
• Experience working in active manufacturing environments, providing on-floor support during programming and commissioning.
• Combination of controls and robotics experience, integrating robotic systems into broader automated production lines.
• Degree in engineering or a related technical field is preferred but not required, provided equivalent experience in robotics and controls.

MIG welding experience or familiarity with welding processes used in robotic applications.

Experience with robotic welding systems, including robotic weld setup and optimization.

Deep experience with Fanuc robotic platforms and related programming tools.

Experience with HMI systems and their integration with PLCs and robotic cells.

Experience in weld equipment and welding robotics within a sheet metal or metal fabrication environment.

Ability to work collaboratively with production, quality, and engineering teams to drive continuous improvement.

Interest in career growth into leadership roles within engineering or operations.

Strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to resolving automation and process issues.

The role is based in a large, established manufacturing facility that produces sheet metal shelving units commonly used in major retail environments. The building is older but has recently been expanded with a new area housing state-of-the-art automated equipment for a new shelving product line. The Robotics Engineer will spend most of their time on the production floor, working directly with robotic welding cells, PLC-controlled automation, and production support teams in an active manufacturing and commissioning environment. The work setting is hands-on, with frequent interaction with machinery, controls systems, and quality processes. The culture emphasizes long-term stability, internal promotion, and professional development, with significant opportunities for growth and advancement within engineering and into leadership roles. The facility offers a flexible work schedule, a casual dress code, and a laid-back atmosphere. Employees receive a competitive benefits package, including eligibility for medical, dental, and vision coverage from the first day of employment, paid holidays, accrued vacation, and access to programs such as a 401(k) with employer match, Employee Assistance Program, educational assistance, career development programs, and company bonus potential.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL.

If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application Deadline

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.