Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineer | Custom Machinery & Industrial AutomationLocation: Grand Rapids, MIEmployment Type: Direct HireOvertime: Time and a half for hours over 45 per week; double time on Sundays and holidaysTravel: 20-40%About the OpportunityEngtal Staffing and Recruiting is partnering with a leading manufacturer of custom machinery and automation systems in the Grand Rapids area to identify a Robotics Engineer. This role is responsible for the programming, simulation, integration, startup, and support of robotic automation systems. The successful candidate will work with minimal supervision, supporting projects from development through installation and commissioning while providing technical guidance to field service personnel and project stakeholders.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop, program, test, and troubleshoot robotic systems for standard machine applications using established designs, standards, and company templatesCreate robot cell simulations and offline programs, including layout validation, reach studies, interference checks, and cycle time estimatesIntegrate robots with PLC, HMI, safety, and vision systems, verifying communication, handshaking, fault handling, and overall system functionalityLead robotic system startup and commissioning activities, coordinating installation support and resolving outstanding technical issuesSupport Controls Engineers with PLC and HMI programming during machine build, startup, troubleshooting, and upgrade projectsSupport machine risk assessments and ensure compliance with applicable robotic safety standards, including ANSI/RIA and ISO 10218Follow established safety practices, including lockout/tagout and robot safeguarding procedures, throughout build, startup, and field activitiesProvide technical instruction to Field Service Engineers on system operation, startup, and troubleshootingAssist with onboarding and technical development of Robotics Engineer I team membersCommunicate safety, technical, schedule, and project concerns promptly to the appropriate team membersQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experienceExperience programming, integrating, and troubleshooting industrial robotic systemsWorking knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, machine controls, and industrial automation systemsExperience integrating robotic systems with PLC, safety, and vision systemsExperience with robotic simulation and offline programming, including reach studies, cell layout validation, and cycle time analysisUnderstanding of robot safeguarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and applicable robotic safety standardsStrong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skillsAbility to read and interpret electrical drawings, mechanical layouts, and technical documentationStrong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skillsAbility to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple projects and prioritiesWillingness to travel to customer locations for installation, startup, and commissioning activities (20-40%)BenefitsCompetitive hourly pay of $50-60 per hourOvertime pay at time and a half for hours over 45 per weekDouble time on Sundays and holidays