Robotics & Automation Leader - Hands-On Manager

KB Search Team; Markle (IN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

KB Search Team seeks a Robotics & Automation Manager to lead development and improvement of robotic and automated systems across a first shift manufacturing operation. This is a hands-on leadership role that connects engineering and production while directing a team of robotics programmers and technicians.

The role requires a degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, 4–5 years in robotics/programming in manufacturing, and 2+ years of supervisory experience.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering.
• 4–5 years of robotics programming and automation experience in manufacturing.
• 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience managing technical employees.
• Strong experience with robotic programming for welding.
• Experience with Fanuc Roboguide and Lincoln Electric WeldPro preferred.
• Knowledge of PLCs, ladder logic, electrical systems, sensors, hydraulics, pneumatics, and vision systems.
• Experience with 2D/3D CAD; Inventor preferred.
• Familiarity with ERP and product configuration systems.
• Strong problem-solving with hands-on approach.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills across engineering, production, and leadership teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of robotics programmers and technicians.
• Identify and prioritize automation opportunities across welding, blasting, and painting operations.
• Lead automation projects from concept through installation, testing, and production.
• Use Fanuc Roboguide and WeldPro to simulate and validate programs.
• Read drawings and 3D models to support automation design and programming.
• Serve as go-to resource for robotics, PLCs, electrical systems, sensors, hydraulics, pneumatics, and tooling.
• Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
• Develop training, work instructions, and documentation for safe operation and troubleshooting.
• Partner with Operations and Continuous Improvement to improve processes and future strategies.
• Stay current on new automation technologies and identify implementation opportunities.

Skills

Robotics programming

Leadership

Welding robotics

PLC & electrical knowledge

CAD (Inventor)

Automation project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering

Tools

Fanuc Roboguide

Lincoln Electric WeldPro

Inventor

PLC programming

Job description

KB Search Team seeks a Robotics & Automation Manager to lead development and improvement of robotic and automated systems across a first shift manufacturing operation. This is a hands-on leadership role that connects engineering and production while directing a team of robotics programmers and technicians.

The role requires a degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, 4–5 years in robotics/programming in manufacturing, and 2+ years of supervisory experience.