Robot Repair Technician

Advanced Electronic Services, Inc.; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Advanced Electronic Services, Inc. is seeking a skilled technician to troubleshoot and repair semiconductor robot systems used for wafer handling and positioning. You will diagnose controller faults, perform mechanical alignment, and verify motion accuracy in controlled environments.

The role involves reading wiring diagrams, using diagnostic tools, and documenting all repair actions and test results. Occasional travel and adherence to safety and cleanroom practices are required.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical training in robotics, mechatronics, electronics, automation, or related discipline.
• Experience with semiconductor manufacturing equipment or wafer-handling robots preferred.
• Experience with precision motion systems and servo-controlled robotics.
• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams and schematics, fault documentation.
• Familiarity with cleanroom practices (ESD) and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and diagnose semiconductor robot systems used for wafer handling, transfer, and positioning.
• Repair or replace robot assemblies and modules including controllers, power supplies, servo drives, motors, encoders, vacuum end-effectors, sensors, and cabling.
• Diagnose robot motion faults such as positioning errors, homing failures, and repeatability issues.
• Perform mechanical adjustments, alignment, and calibration to restore positional accuracy within tolerances.
• Inspect, repair, or replace robot cabling and harnesses.
• Read and follow wiring diagrams, schematics, and service manuals.
• Document diagnostics, repairs, and test results in the system.

Skills

Robotics repair

Electrical troubleshooting

Schematics reading

Documentation

ESD awareness

Independent work

Education

Associate degree

Mechatronics training

Related industrial experience

Tools

Multimeters

Insulation testers

Diagnostics software

Service manuals

Job description

Troubleshoots, diagnoses, repairs, and tests semiconductor industry robotic systems at the system, module, and subassembly level. Equipment includes wafer-handling and atmospheric robot systems manufactured by Cybeq, PRI Equipe, Brooks Automation, Kensington Labs, and similar platforms. Responsibilities include diagnosis of controller faults, motion issues, alignment problems, vacuum and end-effector issues, encoders, motors, power distribution, safety circuits, and cabling. Performs functional and motion testing, alignment checks, and system verification when possible to confirm proper operation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Troubleshoot and diagnose semiconductor robot systems used for wafer handling, transfer, and positioning.
• Repair or replace robot assemblies and modules including controllers, power supplies, servo drives, motors, encoders, amplifiers, vacuum end-effectors, sensors, and cabling.
• Diagnose robot motion faults such as positioning errors, homing failures, repeatability issues, encoder faults, communication errors, and vacuum faults.
• Perform mechanical adjustments, alignment, and calibration to restore positional accuracy and repeatability within required tolerances.
• Inspect, repair, or replace robot cabling, flex cables, connectors, and harnesses.
• Utilize diagnostic tools including multimeters, insulation testers, alignment tools, and manufacturer-provided diagnostics or service software when available.
• Read and interpret wiring diagrams, block diagrams, system schematics, fault codes, service manuals, and customer documentation.
• Perform functional testing, dry runs, and limited motion verification in controlled environments to validate repairs.
• Document diagnostics, repair actions, replaced modules, and test results in the designated system.
• Communicate equipment status, technical findings, and repair timelines with Purchasing, Engineering, Sales, Customer Service, Logistics, and IT.
• Follow all OSHA regulations and company safety policies, including electrical safety, lockout/tagout, and ESD control procedures.
• Maintain required company and customer documentation and service records.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and controlled work area suitable for semiconductor equipment.
• Perform other duties as directed by leadership.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Associate degree or technical training in robotics, mechatronics, electronics, electromechanical systems, automation, or a related discipline or equivalent related industrial experience.
• Experience working with semiconductor manufacturing equipment or wafer-handling robots preferred.
• Experience with precision motion systems, servo-controlled robotics, and industrial automation equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

• Knowledge of semiconductor robotic systems, including wafer-handling robots, controllers, servo motors, encoders, vacuum end-effectors, and safety circuits.
• Understanding of precision motion control, alignment, homing routines, and repeatability requirements.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for system-level electrical, electronic, and electro-mechanical failures.
• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, system schematics, and fault documentation.
• Familiarity with cleanroom-sensitive equipment handling practices (ESD, contamination awareness).
• Ability to follow detailed written procedures, service manuals, and quality standards.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining productivity, accuracy, and documentation quality.
• Effective communication skills across departments and functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequent standing at workstations or test fixtures.
• Occasional lifting of 35–50 pounds to move controllers, robot bases, or assemblies.
• Fine motor skills required for connector work, cabling, and alignment adjustments.
• Frequent bending, stooping, and walking.
• Regular use of hand tools, electrical test equipment, and precision measuring devices.
• Occasional computer use for diagnostics and documentation.
• Consistent attendance with occasional off‑shift support.
• Occasional travel, generally less than 5%.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Works in a clean, well‑lit, climate‑controlled area with minimal noise.

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and vets.