Engineer Technician - R&D and Automation

Smith-c210cb62; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith seeks an Engineering Technician to support R&D and Automation in designing and deploying proprietary hardware and software solutions.

You will bridge mechanical design, robotics, and software engineering to improve efficiency and profitability across global sites, including edge AI deployment and vision system calibration.

Qualifications

• Proficient in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, HTML/CSS, and specialized industrial languages (e.g., ZPL).
• Practical OpenCV experience for vision/inference tasks.
• Experience with Windows, macOS and Linux administration.
• 3D CAD proficiency using SolidWorks or Fusion 360.

Responsibilities

• Assist R&D and Automation Engineers with software automation and tooling development.
• Support vision systems integration, camera setup, and image processing scripts.
• Help deploy AI/ML models on edge devices and manage datasets.
• Assist in hardware installation, calibration, and rapid prototyping workflows.

Skills

Python

JavaScript/TypeScript

HTML/CSS

ZPL

Tools

OpenCV

3D CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360)

Windows

macOS (OSX)

Linux

Job description

Smith is the leading independent electronic components distributor in the world. Since our founding in 1984, Smith’s Intelligent Distribution model and commitment to quality has allowed us to deliver comprehensive solutions to electronic component supply chains. We work across a variety of industries including automotive, supercomputing, gaming, medical devices, oil and gas, and more. Additionally, we provide tailored supply chain solutions such as counterfeit testing, vendor inventory management, and sustainable hardware disposition. We're excited to meet you and share what we love about Smith!The Engineering Technician plays a critical role in supporting the R&D and Automation department in the design, development, and global deployment of proprietary hardware and software solutions. This role bridges the gap between mechanical design, robotic integration, and advanced software engineering to drive operational profitability and technical excellence.Main ResponsibilitiesAssisting R&D and Automation Engineers in the following areas:1. Software Engineering & Process AutomationCustom Solutions: Develop and deploy proprietary software (Python, Rust, JS/TS) to automate hardware and logistics workflows.Core Systems Contribution: Write, test, and deploy critical code patches for corporate-level software to minimize external licensing costs.Profitability & Efficiency: Identify manual bottlenecks and develop utility scripts or automation frameworks to generate cost savings and increase operational speed.Data Security & Lifecycle: Adhere to Smith Policy network security standards and maintain meticulous documentation of all software modifications and component obsolescence.2. Computer Vision & AI ImplementationVision Systems Integration: Support the selection, mounting, and calibration of industrial cameras and specialized lighting to optimize image acquisition.OpenCV Scripting: Develop basic image processing scripts (filtering, thresholding, contour detection) to assist in feature extraction for inspection systems.AI/ML Support: Assist in deploying inference models on edge devices, including data labeling, dataset management, and accuracy testing for anomaly detection.3. Robotics, 3D Modeling & HardwareRobotics & Cobots: Assist in the physical installation, basic point-to-point teaching, and routine calibration of industrial arms.CAD Design: Utilize 3D modeling software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) to design custom mechanical components, brackets, and enclosures.Rapid Prototyping: Manage 3D printing workflows and physical assembly of prototype stations.Hardware Lifecycle: Install and upgrade complex components (CPUs, RAM, storage) in x86 and embedded systems across global sites.Required Skills & QualificationsProgramming: Expertise in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, HTML/CSS, and specialized industrial languages (e.g., ZPL).Vision & AI: Practical experience with OpenCV and a basic understanding of AI training vs. inference workflows.IT Infrastructure: Advanced administration of Windows, OSX, and Linux environments. Foundational networking knowledge (Cisco, Ubiquiti).Mechanical & Optics: Proficiency in 3D CAD software and a solid grasp of industrial opticsSoft Skills: Proven ability to act as a proactive problem-solver in high-pressure, fast-paced R&D environments.Preferred & Bonus Skills AI experience with RAG systems, local model deployment, or ML/AI development.Cloud & DevOps: Familiarity with AWS (EC2, S3, RDS) and CI/CD practices (Git).Certification: A+ Certification or specialized Python/Software Engineering certificatesFSLA: ExemptPosition Type: Full-Time/RegularSmith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer#LI-AK1We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.