Manager - Process Engineering & Robot Programming

About the Company

Sapience Automation, based in Charleston, SC, is a robotics and automation systems integrator delivering solutions to manufacturers across North America. Recognized as a two-time FANUC Innovative System of the Year finalist (2023 and 2026) and recipient of multiple industry awards, Sapience partners with clients in automotive, aviation, medical, heavy truck, consumer products, food, defense, building materials, and energy industries. We deploy high-performance automation systems—from single robot cells to complex, multi-process production lines—specializing in robotic assembly, machine tending, material handling, painting, palletizing, sealing & dispensing, inspection, welding, laser marking, and traceability. Sapience complements robot integration with custom machine and conveyor design, advanced end-of-arm tooling, and vision systems. As an independent operating company within PPC Partners, an employee-owned business with over 3,000 employees, we offer small-company flexibility with the infrastructure of a large organization.

About the Role

This role combines technical leadership for robot programming and process engineering with oversight of all related functions, reporting to the Manager of Controls, Electrical, and Process Engineering. The process engineering element includes applications such as vision, gripping, assembly, coating, and measurement. You will lead a team of 6 engineers (growing to 10+ in the next two years) and oversee all technical and planning aspects of the group.

Responsibilities

• Robot Program Development:
  • Create and optimize robot programs for material handling, assembly, painting, packaging, and other tasks.
  • Utilize robot simulation software to develop and test programs before deployment.
• Project Process Engineering Lead:
  • Collaborate with the engineering team on system design, including end-of-arm tools, fixtures, and related machines.
  • Develop and manage timelines and action plans for robot programs and project processes.
  • Use robot simulation software to validate cycle times, system design, and tooling.
  • Validate vision, grippers, spray guns, dispensing equipment, and other devices during the engineering phase.
  • Ensure all program design standards are met.
• System Design and Proposal Engineering:
  • Collaborate with Application Engineering and Sales teams to engineer and propose robot systems.
  • Use 3D CAD software and robot simulation tools to design efficient robotic solutions.
• Layout Validation and Optimization:
  • Validate robot system layouts during proposal and engineering phases using simulation software.
  • Work with mechanical engineers to optimize robot placement and tooling design.
• Vision Systems and Integration:
  • Program and implement vision systems and inspection tools associated with robots.
  • Collaborate with Controls Engineers to integrate robots with PLCs and other control devices.
• Testing and Deployment:
  • Conduct Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Modular Build phases at Sapience’s facility.
  • Develop project-specific plans and timelines for robot program development and testing.
  • Implement and test programs on-site at customer facilities as the main technical contact.
• Standard Processes:
  • Develop standard processes and templates to increase group efficiency.
• New Process Development:
  • Work on selective development processes to create new methods or products for Sapience.
• Customer Training:
  • Provide training to customers on system operations and maintenance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Prior experience in a Senior robot programming role.
• Experience with robot simulation software.
• Understanding of 3D CAD tools.
• Familiarity with PLCs and control systems.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.