Job Description Summary

The Lead Robotics and Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, industrialization, and deployment of advanced robotic systems and automation solutions within gas turbine manufacturing and repair operations. This role bridges the gap between virtual simulation and shop-floor reality, driving end-to-end system integration. The position requires a hands-on professional capable of architecting robust automation cells, standardizing programming protocols and processes, and mentoring others on automation to ensure manufacturing processes remain scalable, repeatable, and at the cutting edge of technology.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities

• Solution Development: Drive the development and integration of automation solutions to address manufacturing and repair process challenges.
• System Architecture & Integration: Architect, design, program, test, and commission robotic applications and automation cells, ensuring seamless communication between robots, PLCs, motion controllers, vision systems, and facility-level data networks.
• Simulation & Programming: Develop simulation models and create offline programs to support cell layout, reach studies, cycle time optimization, and new technology development.
• Industrialization: Manage the transition and deployment of new processes and systems into production environments.
• Technical Proficiency: Maintain deep technical knowledge of robot programming platforms, PLCs, industrial communication networks, automation hardware, and related process equipment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, Maintenance, and Advanced Manufacturing teams to deliver integrated automation solutions.
• Technical Support: Provide diagnostic support for robot operators, engineers, and technicians through troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Commissioning & Startup: Execute commissioning, validation, and startup activities for robotic systems and automation equipment.
• Standardization: Maintain and improve standards, procedures, documentation, and support materials for automation systems.
• Experimentation: Conduct experimentation and validation efforts to ensure robotic processes are robust, repeatable, and scalable.
• Technological Advancement: Apply robotics, automation, and AI/ML tools to enable next-generation manufacturing technologies where appropriate.
• Project Management: Manage project schedules, deliverables, and technical milestones to support successful execution.
• Communication: Convey technical progress, risks, issues, and recommendations clearly to all levels of the organization.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent professional experience.
• 6–10 years of experience in robotics and automation, with a proven track record in system development and full-scale integration.
• Legal authorization to work in the US is required. We will not provide work visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for this position opening.

Desired Characteristics

• Systems Integration: Hands-on experience integrating industrial and collaborative robots with sensors, servo systems, motion control systems, complex tooling, and safety systems.
• Programming Proficiency: Demonstrated programming experience with one or more industrial robot platforms such as FANUC, ABB, or KUKA.
• Simulation and OLP: Demonstrated experience with offline robot programming and simulation tools such as RoboGuide or similar packages.
• Controls & Networks: Experience integrating robots and actuators with PLCs, I/O systems, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP).
• Technical Troubleshooting: Demonstrated ability to perform root cause analysis and structured problem-solving for complex automation systems.
• Manufacturing Environment: Working knowledge of manufacturing environments, shop-floor operations, and quality management systems.
• Technical Documentation: Proven ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and control schematics.
• CAD/Design: Experience with CAD software; NX is preferred.
• Commissioning: Familiarity with the full lifecycle of commissioning, validation, and startup of automation systems.
• Project Management: Demonstrated project management skills with the ability to manage multiple technical priorities simultaneously.
• Programming & AI/ML: Proficiency in Python/C++, and PLC programming (e.g., Ladder Logic or Structured Text); experie