Robotics and Automation Specialist

Department: Maintenance | Reports To: Plant Manager, dotted line to Technical Manager | Status: Exempt | Location: Applewhite facility | Schedule: Monday through Friday, Day Shift

About the role

This position is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated production equipment, including router cells, robots, secondaries, and other automation systems. This role ensures that automation equipment supports both quality and production needs through reliable operation and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Program, debug, and modify robot and PLC programs to meet production and quality requirements.
• Design, implement, and oversee equipment modifications, including installation of sensors, cameras, and automation components to improve functionality, quality inspection, and process efficiency.
• Build or adapt custom automation equipment in collaboration with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot technical issues; perform repairs, install new motors, drives, sensors, and control devices on robots and associated equipment.
• Provide detailed root cause analysis, corrective actions, and countermeasures to the Plant Manager and Technical Manager.
• Conduct maintenance and inspection procedures to optimize robot and automation cell performance.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Production, and Quality to ensure efficient integration of automation solutions.
• Provide training and mentoring to robotic and maintenance technicians on automation systems.
• Support the day-to-day performance of robot technicians.
• Maintain assigned areas in a highly organized manner that aligns with the company’s 5S expectations.

Requirements

• High school diploma. Technical degree and/or bachelor’s in a related engineering field a plus.
• 5–8 years of proven experience as a technician, specialist, or similar role in robotics and automation. Automotive industry preferred.

Skills

• Advanced proficiency in robotic programming (Fanuc, Universal, and other OEMs).
• Advanced proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar).
• Advanced knowledge of robotics, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Experience with vision systems, sensors, and automation integration.
• Ability to use standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• Advanced math skills.
• Strong analytical, planning, and critical-thinking ability with an orientation for continuous improvement.
• Ability to work logically and systematically with effective time management.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to read, write, and speak English. Bilingual (English-Spanish) preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all levels in the organization and across cultures.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work effectively.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage a variety of projects and tasks.
• Takes initiative, approaches others positively, and works well independently.
• Commitment to safety procedures and protocols.

Physical Requirements

• 10% of time spent at a desk using a computer and basic office equipment; 90% on the production floor.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds individually and team-lift 50 pounds.
• Must perform job safely in accordance with standard operating procedures without endangering self or others.
• Must wear all required personal protective equipment.

Benefits

• Paid basic life insurance
• Paid short-term disability
• Paid long-term disability
• Paid HRA
• Paid time off
• Paid 2 shutdown work weeks (summer and winter)
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching (discretionary)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible spending account including employer contribution
• Health savings account
• Referral program
• Annual bonus (5%)