Technique is looking for a Controls/Robotic Engineer to join our team at our Jackson, Michigan facility. This position plays a key role in designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems and robotic equipment across the production floor. The Controls/Robotic Engineer works closely with manufacturing, maintenance, and engineering teams to develop and improve automation solutions that drive efficiency, quality, and safety.
The ideal candidate holds a degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering (or equivalent experience) and brings hands-on expertise in PLC programming, robot programming (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, or similar), and industrial controls design. Experience in a precision manufacturing environment is strongly preferred, along with a working knowledge of electrical schematics, HMI development, and servo/motion control systems.
Responsibilities:
- PLC Programming & Controls Design - Design, develop, and maintain PLC-based control systems for new and existing automated equipment using platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent.
- Robot Programming & Integration - Program, commission, and troubleshoot industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, Yaskawa, or similar) for applications including welding, material handling, assembly, and machine tending.
- Automation System Development - Lead automation projects from concept through commissioning, including controls architecture, panel design, wiring, and startup.
- HMI Development - Design and develop human-machine interfaces (HMI) for production equipment, ensuring intuitive operator interaction and robust alarm/fault management.
- Electrical Schematic Design - Create and maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical or similar CAD tools.
- Troubleshooting & Support - Diagnose and resolve controls and robotics issues on the production floor with minimal downtime, providing on-call support as needed.
- Continuous Improvement - Identify and implement automation improvements to increase throughput, reduce scrap, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
- Safety Compliance - Ensure all automated systems comply with applicable safety standards including OSHA, NFPA 70E, ISO 10218, and RIA R15.06.
- Vendor & Supplier Coordination - Work with equipment vendors, integrators, and suppliers to specify, procure, and commission automation equipment.
- Documentation - Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation including programs, schematics, machine manuals, and engineering change records.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner with manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and tooling teams to support production goals and new product launches.
- Training - Provide technical training to maintenance and operations personnel on automated systems and robotic equipment.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 3+ years of experience in industrial controls engineering and/or robotics in a manufacturing environment
- Proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell preferred; Siemens or other platforms a plus)
- Hands-on robot programming experience with at least one major platform (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, Yaskawa, or equivalent)
- Experience with HMI development (FactoryTalk View, Ignition, Wonderware, or similar)
- Knowledge of electrical panel design, NEC/NFPA 79, and low-voltage wiring practices
- Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical or equivalent electrical CAD software
- Familiarity with servo and motion control systems
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills with the ability to diagnose complex controls and mechanical issues
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and pneumatic/hydraulic diagrams
- Experience with machine safety standards (ISO 13849, NFPA 70E, RIA R15.06) preferred
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the production facility for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, metal dust, lubricants, and coolants
- Authorized to work in the United States; Technique participates in E-Verify; H1B sponsorship is not available for this position
Position Type and Expected Hours:
This is a full-time, salaried-exempt position. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8.0 hours per day.
Benefits:
- Paid Time Off
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- Health Savings Account
- Flexible Spending Account
- 401(k)
- 401(k) Matching
- Professional Development
- Referral Program
- Paid Training
- On The Job Training
- Employee Assistance Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
