Sr. Robotics Application Engineer

Job Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard—from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.

Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Global Robotics Vision Applications Standards team is seeking a Robotics Applications Engineer to develop, maintain, and support global robotic and vision applications and standards for GM manufacturing automation systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and troubleshoot advanced robotic solutions while supporting existing applications across our global footprint.

You will collaborate closely with Execution, Safety, Controls Standards, and regional/global automation teams to standardize innovative guidance and process applications and promote simple, safe, and robust manufacturing solutions.

What You’ll Do

• Analyze manufacturing requirements and design robotic, vision, and motion control applications.

• Provide modeling and throughput simulation support for application development.

• Collaborate with Mechanical Engineering, R&D, Safety, and regional/global automation teams to gather requirements and document manufacturing needs.

• Partner with equipment and integration suppliers to define and deliver optimal solutions.

• Develop hardware and software designs for robotic and vision systems, including vision devices, power distribution, I/O networks, and associated cost estimates.

• Ensure designs comply with GCCH, GCCS, and Global Robot Standards; review and oversee contractor designs for quality and compliance.

• Define specifications, functional requirements, and integration methods for robotic and vision systems.

• Evaluate and validate new robotics and vision technologies for use in GM facilities.

• Provide on-site and remote technical support for plant vision issues, new equipment startup, troubleshooting, reprogramming, and diagnostics in partnership with skilled trades.

• Develop and deliver training and documentation to support global deployment of standardized robotic and vision systems.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or equivalent experience.

• 3+ years’ experience deploying robots in manufacturing systems.

• 3+ years’ experience with setup and programming of Fanuc robots.

• Proficiency in designing, setting up, and debugging vision systems for robot guidance, error proofing, or part quality.

• Proficient in Karel and Fanuc TP programming.

• Experience with a range of 2D and 3D vision sensors.

• Strong understanding of robotics concepts (kinematics, dynamics, control).

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects with a high degree of autonomy.

• Willingness to travel occasionally within North America and globally to OEMs and plant sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficient in Python, C, C++, or Java.

• Experience with Linux, Bash, and Git for development and version control.

• Knowledge of ROS/ROS2 (Robot Operating System) packages and deployment.

• Familiarity with Docker containers for application deployment.

• Experience applying AI and machine learning techniques in robotics applications.

• Experience developing solutions for mobile robots (e.g., mapping, obstacle avoidance).

• Familiarity with GM Global Common Standards (GCCH, GCCS, GRS).

• AIA Certified Vision Professional – Basic or Advanced.

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us 

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change thro