Robotics Engineer I

Position Overview

The Robotics Engineer I is responsible for the programming, simulation, integration, startup, and support of robotic automation systems for custom machinery. This position works with minimal supervision to develop robotic applications, integrate robots with controls and safety systems, and support projects from development through installation and commissioning. The Robotics Engineer II also provides technical support to field service personnel and stakeholders while ensuring robotic systems meet project, performance, and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop, program, test, and troubleshoot robotic systems for standard machine applications using established designs, standards, and company templates.
• Create robot cell simulations and offline programs, including cell layout validation, reach studies, interference checks, and cycle time estimates.
• Integrate robots with PLC, HMI, safety, and vision systems, verifying communication, handshaking, fault handling, and system functionality.
• Follow established safety practices, including lockout/tagout and robot safeguarding procedures, during equipment build, checkout, startup, and field activities.
• Support machine risk assessments and ensure robotic applications comply with applicable robotic safety standards, including ANSI/RIA and ISO 10218 requirements.
• Lead robotic system startups and commissioning activities for standard machine applications, coordinating installation support and resolving outstanding technical issues.
• Support Controls Engineers with PLC and HMI programming during machine build, startup, troubleshooting, and upgrade projects.
• Troubleshoot robotic, electrical, controls, and integration issues during equipment build and customer-site activities.
• Provide technical instruction to Field Service Engineers on robotic system operation, startup, and troubleshooting.
• Assist with onboarding and technical development of Robotics Engineer I employees and provide guidance to junior team members.
• Communicate effectively with customers, project managers, engineering teams, and other stakeholders while supporting multiple projects and priorities.
• Promptly communicate safety, technical, schedule, or project concerns to appropriate team members.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience programming, integrating, and troubleshooting industrial robotic systems.
• Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, machine controls, and industrial automation systems.
• Experience integrating robotic systems with PLC, safety, and vision systems.
• Ability to develop and troubleshoot robot programs with minimal supervision.
• Experience with robotic simulation and offline programming, including reach studies, cell layout validation, and cycle time analysis.
• Understanding of industrial robot safeguarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and applicable robotic safety standards.
• Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, mechanical layouts, and technical documentation.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to travel, support equipment installation, startup, and commissioning activities at customer locations as required (20-40%).

Ascential Technologies is a global industrial technology company with operations spanning automotive testing and validation, medical and life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. Our Grand Rapids, MI site is part of the Burke Porter Group — a recognized leader in vehicle testing, automation, and end-of-line measurement systems. We build with precision. We operate with purpose. And we’re looking for people who bring that same standard to every part of the business.