R&D Automation Engineer (Onsite)

Summary: Research, design, develop, and implement equipment automation and robotic applications. Develop, modify and troubleshoot the software which operates current and new equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Analyze production processes, develop automation solutions.
• Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of robotic and electro-mechanical components or systems consisting of 6-axis robots, SCARA robots, multiple mobile robots, reconfigurable robots, and co-bots.
• Write software to control robotic systems for applications.
• Design, program, simulate, and test automated machinery and processes to incorporate into new and existing equipment.
• Responsible for the application of automation engineering principles in the design, specification, construction, startup, and validation of process equipment.
• Design automated robotic systems to increase production volume or precision in high-throughput operations such as automated pick & place, sorting, moving, or stacking production materials.
• Build, configure, and test robots or robotic applications and use version control software to manage application development projects.
• Integrate robotics with peripherals such as PLCs or other equipment and install, calibrate, operate, and maintain robots.
• Document robotic application development, and engineering changes.
• Write Machine Instruction and Maintenance Procedure documents for production.
• Assist with evaluation of robotic systems or prototypes and investigate mechanical failures or unexpected maintenance problems.
• Provide technical support and training (including safety) to production personnel for robotic systems.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements: Must be able to perform each duty outlined above and possess the education, skills, and abilities described in this job description

Education and/or Experience: A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or electrical engineering and CAD software proficiency. 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Other Skills/Abilities:

• Computer literacy, especially knowledge of Outlook, Word, and Excel programs.
• Experience with SolidWorks, AutoCAD or other CAD programs is strongly preferred.
• Experience with Vision-guided motion and inspection highly desirable (Keyence and Cognex a plus).
• Working knowledge of optical sensors (Keyence a plus).
• Robotics programming experience including (EPSON RC+, Python experience a plus).
• Electronic actuator programming experience (including servo motors).
• PLC programming experience (Do-more and Direct Logic a plus).
• Understanding of Serial, Modbus RTU, Modbus over Ethernet and Ethernet IP Explicit protocols.
• Ability to read/update machine and regular PCB layout type schematics.
• Familiarity with safety standards (ANSI/RIA, ISO) a plus.
• Ability to work in a team environment responsible for the development of in-house manufacturing equipment.

Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret reports (such as general business reports, scientific and technical journals and/or procedures, AMC policy and regulations, financial and legal documents) and ability to write and effectively communicate with managers, vendors, customers, and employees.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to apply intermediate concepts.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to identify problems and review relevant information to evaluate options and develop solutions.

Physical Requirements:

• Constant use of hands and arms.
• Good depth perception, hearing, speech, and vision (including ability to distinguish colors).
• Lifting up to 40 pounds (up to 3 feet high) 2 times a day.

Environmental Conditions: Majority of time is spent indoors with few to any changes in temperature and the noise level is usually moderate.