Robotics & Automation Project Engineer

About the role

This role blends reactive support with proactive engineering. You will diagnose complex failures, implement structured improvements, and partner cross-functionally to strengthen system stability across the fleet. Your work will directly impact system uptime, performance consistency, and long-term customer success.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and resolve complex automation failures to minimize production downtime
• Design and implement preventative and predictive strategies that improve system reliability
• Lead system-level continuous improvement initiatives, including hardware and software upgrades
• Analyze production data and diagnostic trends to identify systemic performance gaps
• Provide remote support by responding to service tickets, guiding troubleshooting efforts, and triaging issues to onsite teams when required
• Support field service activities within your local region for both reactive and preventative maintenance
• Partner with Product, Deployment, and Engineering teams to standardize equipment configurations and improve system repeatability
• Maintain system documentation, including procedures, maintenance logs, and change-control records
• Serve as the escalation point for complex technical issues across the fleet
• Mentor field technicians and engineers on troubleshooting and system health best practices
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, internal quality requirements, and relevant industry regulations
• Collaborate with vendors to improve parts availability, diagnostic capabilities, and technical support

Requirements

5+ years of experience in manufacturing automation or industrial robotics environments
Strong proficiency programming PLCs, robots, and industrial control systems
Solid understanding of robotic systems, motion systems, and automated manufacturing equipment
Hands-on experience diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and control system failures
Experience working in uptime-critical manufacturing environments
Strong problem-solving skills and a structured troubleshooting methodology
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently while collaborating cross-functionally
Willingness to travel up to 50% based on business needs
Valid driver’s license and ability to support local travel

Qualifications

Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments
Experience standardizing automation systems across multiple deployed sites
Exposure to data-driven maintenance or predictive monitoring tools

Skills

Strong proficiency programming PLCs, robots, and industrial control systems
Solid understanding of robotic systems, motion systems, and automated manufacturing equipment
Hands-on experience diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and control system failures
Experience working in uptime-critical manufacturing environments
Strong problem-solving skills and a structured troubleshooting methodology
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently while collaborating cross-functionally
Willingness to travel up to 50% based on business needs
Valid driver’s license and ability to support local travel

Benefits

At Formic, we offer a comprehensive benefits and perks package for full-time, U.S.-based team members, including:

• Equity in Formic: Participate in our stock option program and share in the success of a fast-growing start-up backed by leading global investors
• Competitive & Uncapped Commission Structure: Designed to reward performance and impact in commission-eligible roles
• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield and Unum, with 99% of employee premiums covered and 75% coverage for dependents, with optional buy-up plans available
• Additional Insurance Benefits: FSA and DCFSA, life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability through Unum, all 100% employer-paid
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Fully funded by Formic, offering support when you need it most
• Paid Parental Leave Program: Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• Company-sponsored 401(k): Invest in your future with our company-facilitated retirement savings plan
• Home Office Stipend: A one-time allowance for fully remote and hybrid employees to support an at-home or on-the-road work setup
• Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement: Monthly stipend toward personal phone and internet expenses
• Flexible Time Off: Take the time you need, when you need it, supported by our flexible PTO policy

Pay

$38—$46 USD

Schedule

Final offers are customized based on experience, geographic location, market considerations, and a candidate’s preferred balance of cash and equity.

Equal Opportunity Employment

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or religious creed, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, marital status, family or parental status, disability, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. All employment decisions are based on a person’s merit, business needs, and role requirements.

AI Use

We use AI-powered tools in some interviews to help our teams evaluate candidate responses, but all final hiring decisions are made by humans. You can learn more about how AI is used in our recruitment process by reviewing our AI Hiring Disclosure linked here.