Automation Software Technician

Flex; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Flex is seeking an Automation Software Engineer in Milpitas, CA, to support development, integration, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems.

The role emphasizes Python scripting, PLC programming for gantry systems, and computer vision integration, with collaboration across engineering teams to ensure robust deployments.

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Proficiency in Python for automation, data handling, and API integration.
• PLC programming experience with motion control, gantries, and robotics.
• Familiarity with industrial protocols: Modbus, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP, TCP/IP.
• Exposure to MES integration and industrial data collection architectures.
• Knowledge of SQL or cloud storage for manufacturing telemetry.

Responsibilities

• Develop, integrate, and deploy automated manufacturing software.
• Write, debug, and maintain Python scripts for automation control and data logging.
• Design, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for gantry systems and robotics.
• Assist in deploying computer vision pipelines for quality inspection and guidance.
• Support MES integration to ensure data traceability and real-time reporting.
• Collaborate with engineers and technicians to test code and commission equipment.

Skills

Python

PLC programming

ROS

OpenCV

SQL databases

data handling

machine learning telemetry

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Computer Science

Tools

Allen-Bradley/Rockwell

Omron

Siemens

Beckhoff

OPC UA

Modbus

Job description

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary.

To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add an Automation Software Engineer located in Milpitas, CA.

Reporting to the Automation Engineer the Automation Software Engineer role is responsible for supporting the development, integration, and deployment of cutting-edge automated manufacturing systems.

What a typical day looks like:

• Python Development: Write, maintain, and debug robust Python scripts for automation control, data logging, hardware communication, and bridging computer vision models with peripheral hardware.
• PLC Programming & Motion Control: Design, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for gantry systems, automated material handling, and articulated robotic workcells.
• Computer Vision Integration: Assist in deploying, calibrating, and troubleshooting computer vision hardware and software pipelines used for quality inspection, guidance, and tracking.
• MES Integration: Support the integration of machine-level data with plant-wide Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) to ensure seamless data traceability, production tracking, and real-time reporting.
• Data Organization: Structure and manage operational data streams, ensuring clean inputs/outputs for analytics, machine learning telemetry, and traceability metrics.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner daily with Senior Automation Engineers, Software Engineers, and Senior Technicians to test code, commission equipment, and resolve field issues during deployment and ramp-up.
• Documentation & Testing: Develop comprehensive documentation for code bases, wiring schematics updates, system operations manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Perform rigorous I/O checkout and system validation.

The experience we’re looking to add to our team:

• Education: Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related technical field (or equivalent practical experience). Option for Full Time Conversion after 1 Year.
• Technical Skills (Mandatory):
• Proficiency in Python for automation, data handling, and API integration.
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Omron, Siemens, Beckhoff) focusing on motion control, gantries, and robotics.
• Experience with Advanced Systems:
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP, TCP/IP).
• Exposure to MES integration and industrial data collection architectures.
• Basic understanding or deployment experience with Computer Vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence, OpenCV-based custom solutions).
• Soft Skills: Strong analytical and troubleshooting mindset; excellent cross-functional communication skills; ability to work independently or under the guidance of senior engineering staff in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or Python-based vision libraries (OpenCV, PyTorch).
• Knowledge of SQL databases or cloud-based data storage for manufacturing telemetry.
• Background in electrical panel layout and reading P&IDs or electrical schematics.

Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email [e-mail] and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).