Step into a high-impact contract role where youll design, program, and deploy advanced robotic systems for industrial automation projects across Michigan. Youll work end-to-end on cutting-edge robotics solutions, from mechanical design and motion planning through to embedded control and machine vision integration.
About the Role:
As a Contract Robotics Engineer, you will be responsible for developing, integrating, and commissioning robotic systems that improve throughput, quality, and safety in automated production environments. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to translate customer requirements into robust, scalable robotic solutions, and ensure systems are delivered on time and to specification. Your work will directly influence project success and the long-term reliability of deployed automation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement robotic control software in C++ and/or Python for industrial robotic platforms.
- Develop and integrate machine vision and image processing solutions for part detection, inspection, and guidance.
- Create and validate motion planning algorithms and kinematic models to achieve precise, collision-free robot trajectories.
- Design mechanical components and assemblies using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) to support end-of-arm tooling, fixtures, and robot interfaces.
- Develop and debug embedded control systems for robotics, including microcontroller-based boards and real-time interfaces.
- Integrate robotic systems with industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, sensors, actuators, and safety systems.
- Commission, test, and optimize robotic cells on-site, including troubleshooting hardware/software issues and refining performance.
- Produce technical documentation, including system specifications, design drawings, and test procedures, to support deployment and maintenance.
Key Requirements:
- Proven experience in robotics engineering within industrial automation or manufacturing environments.
- Strong programming skills in C++ and/or Python for real-time or near real-time robotic applications.
- Hands-on experience with machine vision and image processing tools, libraries, or frameworks (e.g., OpenCV, HALCON, Cognex, or similar).
- Solid understanding of motion planning, kinematics, and robot dynamics for articulated and/or Cartesian robots.
- Proficiency in mechanical design using CAD software such as SolidWorks, including creating detailed models and drawings.
- Experience with embedded systems design, including microcontrollers, communication interfaces, and hardware/software integration.
- Practical experience integrating robotics with industrial automation systems and PLCs from major vendors.
- Ability to work independently on contract assignments, managing priorities, timelines, and deliverables with minimal supervision.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with major industrial robot brands (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar).
- Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or deterministic control environments.
- Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, OPC UA).
- Background in control theory, advanced motion control, or model-based design.
- Experience with safety standards and risk assessments for robotic and automated systems (e.g., ISO 10218, RIA).
- Exposure to simulation tools for robotics and automation (e.g., RoboDK, Process Simulate, or similar).
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
- Masters degree in a relevant field is preferred for more complex or research-oriented projects.
- Professional certifications in robotics, automation, or PLC programming are an advantage.
- Valid authorization to work on a contract basis in Michigan and willingness to travel to customer sites as required.
If you are a hands-on Robotics Engineer who enjoys delivering complete, production-ready automation solutions, this contract role offers the opportunity to make a measurable impact on high-profile projectsapply now to be considered.