Robotics & Automation Engineer

Robotics & Automation EngineerPosition SummaryThe Robotics & Automation Engineer supports all automated and semi‐automated systems within the Helix Plant, a highly automated chemical manufacturing environment. This role provides advanced technical support across Engineering, Manufacturing, and Maintenance-leading debugging, optimization, equipment commissioning, training, SOP development, hazard reviews, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA).The engineer ensures plant safety, reliability, and uptime by developing, troubleshooting, and improving robotic, PLC, and material‐handling systems while maintaining compliance with OSHA, machine‐guarding, and chemical‐process safety standards (including PSM elements such as MOC, PSSR, and mechanical integrity).Education & ExperiencePreferred:* Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Controls, or related field with 8+ years experience in robotics and automationOR* bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related discipline with 5+ years' experience in robotics, controls, and automated systemsRequired / Strongly Preferred:* 5+ years' experience in a manufacturing environment; chemical, explosive, or hazardous‐materials manufacturing strongly preferred* Demonstrated experience with:- Robotics programming and maintenance (Fanuc, ABB, or equivalent)- PLC/HMI programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell/Allen‐Bradley preferred)- Conveyors, packaging systems, and automated material‐handling equipmentHands‐on experience developing, writing, and validating SOPsExperience conducting RCA and supporting hazard reviews (HAZOP/LOPA/JSA)Prior maintenance support including PM scheduling, work requests, and spare‐parts documentationProficiency with Microsoft Office SuiteMechanical background in assembly/disassembly using OEM spares and vendor specificationsCore ResponsibilitiesSupport Engineering, Manufacturing, and Maintenance teams in testing, debugging, and optimizing automated systems to improve cycle time, availability, uptime, and yieldArchitect new automation solutions or optimize existing systems; write, modify, and debug PLC logic following structured, well‐documented, maintainable coding practicesMonitor automated cell performance using SCADA/HMI systems, historian trends, and data dashboards to drive data‐based decisionsTroubleshoot and repair:- Robots and robotic end‐effectors- Servo systems and motion controls- Conveyors and automated transfer systems- Safety systems including light curtains, e‐stops, safety relays/PLCsRead and interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, mechanical diagrams, blueprints, and P&IDsLead robotic repairs, calibration, EOAT changes, wiring‐harness replacement, gearbox repair, and PMsOversee installation and commissioning of motors, sensors, junction boxes, stack lights, machine‐vision components, and network‐connected devicesIdentify and execute improvements to control systems, safety circuits, robotic reliability, and process stabilityConduct and document RCA, support hazard analyses, and help close corrective actionsWrite OSHA‐compliant SOPs, LOTO procedures, verification/validation plans, and participate in PSM processes including MOC and PSSRCollaborate on projects with engineering teams, providing controls/automation guidance on design changes, upgrades, and scale‐upsMaintain accurate documentation of PLC backups, robot programs, network topologies, and electrical systemsProvide off‐shift support as needed, including occasional nights, weekends, or holidays during critical events or startupsKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesStrong electrical and mechanical aptitude; able to troubleshoot across multiple disciplinesAbility to communicate clearly with operators, peers, leadership, and vendorsSkilled in problem‐solving, data interpretation, and system‐level analysisProficiency in automated assembly, material handling, pneumatics, fabrication, and basic machining/weldingIntermediate mathematical and reasoning skills, including ability to interpret trends and performance dataStrong organizational skills with ability to maintain accurate documentation, follow procedures, and perform correct time entryAbility to enforce SOPs, safety systems, PPE compliance, and chemical‐process safety requirementsAbility to work flexible schedules and provide remote/onsite technical support as neededTeam‐oriented mindset supporting engineering projects, continuous improvement, and cross‐functional initiativesWork Environment* Based at the Helix Plant with responsibility across all shifts in a chemical manufacturing environment* May require off‐site or remote support depending on operational needsEqual Opportunity StatementAustin Powder is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job‐related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Austin Powder participates in E‐Verify.