Step into a high-impact contract role where your robotics expertise will directly shape advanced automation solutions for industrial clients across Michigan. You’ll work on cutting-edge robotic systems that integrate machine vision, PLCs, and ROS, contributing to projects that improve efficiency, precision, and safety on the factory floor.

About the Role:
As a Contract Robotics Engineer, you will design, develop, and implement robotic systems tailored to complex industrial automation requirements. You’ll be responsible for integrating hardware, software, and control systems to deliver robust, production-ready solutions. Your work will have a direct impact on project delivery timelines, system performance, and client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and configure robotic systems, including selection and integration of robots, sensors, actuators, and control hardware for industrial applications.
• Develop and implement machine vision and image processing solutions for part detection, inspection, alignment, and guidance.
• Program and commission PLCs to control robotic cells, conveyors, and auxiliary equipment, ensuring reliable communication between devices.
• Develop, test, and optimize C/C++ and ROS-based software modules for motion control, path planning, and system coordination.
• Integrate robotic systems with existing industrial automation infrastructure, including safety systems and data acquisition.
• Conduct system testing, debugging, and performance tuning on-site and in lab environments to ensure stable, repeatable operation.
• Create technical documentation, including system architecture, control logic descriptions, and maintenance procedures.
• Provide technical support during installation, start-up, and handover to client engineering and maintenance teams.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in robotics system design within industrial or manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on expertise with machine vision and image processing tools and libraries used in production settings.
• Strong PLC programming skills (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens or similar) for control and automation tasks.
• Proficiency in C/C++ programming for real-time control and embedded applications.
• Practical experience developing and deploying applications using ROS (Robot Operating System).
• Solid understanding of industrial automation concepts, including safety standards, fieldbus networks, and control architectures.
• Ability to work independently on contract assignments, managing priorities and deliverables to meet project deadlines.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and integration issues on-site.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with collaborative robots (cobots) and human-robot interaction in industrial environments.
• Familiarity with common machine vision platforms (e.g., Cognex, Keyence, OpenCV-based solutions).
• Knowledge of motion control systems, servo drives, and advanced path planning algorithms.
• Exposure to MES/SCADA systems and data integration from robotic cells.
• Background in cycle time optimization and line balancing for automated production lines.
• Experience working in automotive or other high-volume manufacturing sectors.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline preferred for complex system design responsibilities.
• Relevant industry certifications in robotics, PLC programming, or industrial automation are an advantage.
• Demonstrated portfolio of completed robotics or automation projects in industrial settings.

If you are a contract robotics specialist ready to take on technically demanding projects and deliver tangible results for Michigan-based manufacturers, we’d like to hear from you.