Robotics & Automation Engineer

Austin Powder Red Diamond•McArthur, OH

16h•Onsite

About The Position

The 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).

Requirements

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 equipment
Hands‑on experience developing, writing, and validating SOPs
Experience conducting RCA and supporting hazard reviews (HAZOP/LOPA/JSA)
Prior maintenance support including PM scheduling, work requests, and spare‑parts documentation
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
Mechanical background in assembly/disassembly using OEM spares and vendor specifications
Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude; able to troubleshoot across multiple disciplines
Ability to communicate clearly with operators, peers, leadership, and vendors
Skilled in problem‑solving, data interpretation, and system‑level analysis
Proficiency in automated assembly, material handling, pneumatics, fabrication, and basic machining/welding
Intermediate mathematical and reasoning skills, including ability to interpret trends and performance data
Strong organizational skills with ability to maintain accurate documentation, follow procedures, and perform correct time entry
Ability to enforce SOPs, safety systems, PPE compliance, and chemical‑process safety requirements
Ability to work flexible schedules and provide remote/onsite technical support as needed
Team‑oriented mindset supporting engineering projects, continuous improvement, and cross‑functional initiatives

Nice To Haves

Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Controls, or related field with 8+ years experience in robotics and automation OR bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related discipline with 5+ years' experience in robotics, controls, and automated systems

Responsibilities

Support Engineering, Manufacturing, and Maintenance teams in testing, debugging, and optimizing automated systems to improve cycle time, availability, uptime, and yield
Architect new automation solutions or optimize existing systems; write, modify, and debug PLC logic following structured, well‑documented, maintainable coding practices
Monitor automated cell performance using SCADA/HMI systems, historian trends, and data dashboards to drive data‑based decisions
Troubleshoot 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/PLCs
Read and interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, mechanical diagrams, blueprints, and P&IDs
Lead robotic repairs, calibration, EOAT changes, wiring‑harness replacement, gearbox repair, and PMs
Oversee installation and commissioning of motors, sensors, junction boxes, stack lights, machine‑vision components, and network‑connected devices
Identify and execute improvements to control systems, safety circuits, robotic reliability, and process stability
Conduct and document RCA, support hazard analyses, and help close corrective actions
Write OSHA‑compliant SOPs, LOTO procedures, verification/validation plans, and participate in PSM processes including MOC and PSSR
Collaborate on projects with engineering teams, providing controls/automation guidance on design changes, upgrades, and scale‑ups
Maintain accurate documentation of PLC backups, robot programs, network topologies, and electrical systems
Provide off‑shift support as needed, including occasional nights, weekends, or holidays during critical events or startups