Job Title: Robotics Control Engineer (Manufacturing)

Job Summary:

The Mid-Level Robotics Control Engineer (Manufacturing) is responsible for managing, optimizing, and maintaining robotic systems used in automated manufacturing processes. This role involves programming, troubleshooting, and enhancing the performance of robotic systems, ensuring they meet production goals and adhere to quality standards. The Robotics Control Engineer will work closely with senior engineers, production teams, and other departments to optimize robotic system functionality, integrate new technologies, and support continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Robotics Programming and Optimization:

   • Develop, program, and optimize robotic systems for tasks such as material handling, welding, assembly, and quality control using programming languages such as teach pendants, Python, or ROS.
   • Lead efforts to improve robotic system performance by optimizing algorithms, refining motion paths, and reducing cycle times.
   • Troubleshoot and resolve more complex robotic system issues related to programming, performance, and hardware integration.

2. System Integration and Setup:

   • Integrate robotic systems with other automation technologies such as PLCs, SCADA, MES, vision systems, and conveyors to ensure smooth, coordinated production workflows.
   • Assist in configuring and calibrating robotic systems to interact with other machines and factory automation systems.
   • Work with cross-functional teams to ensure robotic systems are properly integrated into the broader manufacturing system, optimizing overall production efficiency.

3. Testing, Debugging, and Maintenance:

   • Lead testing efforts for new robotic systems and upgrades, ensuring that they meet production specifications and quality standards.
   • Support the debugging of robotic programs and hardware issues, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
   • Oversee routine maintenance and troubleshooting of robotic systems to minimize downtime and maintain optimal performance.

4. Performance Monitoring and Data Analysis:

   • Monitor real-time performance of robotic systems, ensuring that robots are operating within optimal parameters and achieving production goals.
   • Collect and analyze data on robotic system performance, including efficiency, cycle time, downtime, and error rates.
   • Generate reports on system performance, identifying opportunities for improvement and providing recommendations for upgrades or modifications to enhance efficiency.

5. Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:

   • Work closely with production teams to ensure that robotic systems are effectively used, troubleshooting any operational issues and ensuring minimal downtime.
   • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and maintenance teams to ensure that the robotic systems meet production goals, comply with safety standards, and maintain quality control requirements.
   • Provide technical expertise and support during the integration of new automation technologies or systems into the manufacturing process.

6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

   • Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of robotic systems, using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
   • Identify process inefficiencies or system bottlenecks and recommend innovative solutions to improve performance and reduce costs.
   • Stay updated with the latest developments in robotics technology, automation, and manufacturing techniques to ensure that the organization remains competitive and cutting-edge.

7. Training and Development:

   • Mentor and support junior engineers and technicians, providing guidance on robotic programming, troubleshooting, and system integration.
   • Develop and lead training programs for operators and maintenance teams to ensure they are proficient in using and maintaining robotic systems.
   • Assist in the creation of documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for robotic systems and automation processes.

8. Safety and Compliance:

   • Ensure that robotic systems are designed and operated in compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and internal quality controls.
   • Collaborate with safety and compliance teams to develop and enforce safety protocols for the use and maintenance of robotic systems in the manufacturing environment.
   • Conduct regular safety audits and ensure that all robotic systems and equipment are safely maintained and operated.

Key Focus Areas:

• Robotic System Optimization: Develop and optimize robotic systems to improve production efficiency, minimize downtime, and meet production targets.
• System Integration and Troubleshooting: Lead integration efforts and troubleshoot robotic systems to ensure smooth, coordinated operation within the broader manufacturing process.
• Data Analysis and Process Improvement: Monitor performance and use data-driven analysis to implement process improvements.
• Collaboration and Mentorship: Work with cross-functional teams to support operations and mentor junior engineers to enhance technical capabilities within the team.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead initiatives to drive improvements in robotics performance, system reliability, and cost efficiency.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Proficiency in robotic programming languages (e.g., teach pendants, Python, ROS) and robotic control systems.
• Strong understanding of PLCs, SCADA, HMI, MES, and industrial automation technologies used in manufacturing.
• Experience with system integration and working with sensors, vision systems, and other factory automation tools.
• Ability to troubleshoot, debug, and resolve complex robotic system issues, including hardware and software problems.
• Knowledge of process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma) and their application to robotics and automation.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Ability to mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Relevant certifications in robotics programming, automation systems, or industrial control systems (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, Siemens) are beneficial.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in robotics, automation systems, or manufacturing engineering, with at least 2 years of hands-on experience with robotic programming and system integration.
• Experience with PLC-controlled systems, SCADA, MES, HMI, and robotic integration is preferred.
• Proven track record of troubleshooting, optimizing, and integrating robotic systems into a manufacturing environment.

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency with robotic programming platforms (e.g., ABB, Fanuc, KUKA, Universal Robots).
• Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMI, MES, and PLC programming software.
• Experience with industrial automation tools, sensors, vision systems, and machine learning techniques for robotics.
• Knowledge of data analysis and performance monitoring software (e.g., Excel, SQL, etc.).

Other Requirements:

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills to guide junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for system installations, upgrades, or troubleshooting at remote facilities or client sites.