Robotics Engineer

Valknut Automation; Lake Orion (MI); On-site; USD 58,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

Valknut Automation in Michigan seeks a hands-on Robotics/Controls Engineer to design, implement and commission automated robotic systems. You will integrate sensors, data acquisition, and motion control, translating requirements into robust automation solutions for industrial clients.

The role emphasizes on-site installation, cross-functional collaboration, and developing control software in Python and C/C++ to enhance throughput, quality, and safety on the factory floor.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Robotics Engineer or Controls/Automation Engineer in industrial robotics.
• Strong hands-on expertise in sensor integration and data acquisition for real-time control.
• Proficiency in Python and C/C++ for control software development and automation scripting.
• Solid understanding of control systems engineering, including PID and motion control.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robotic control software using Python and C/C++ for industrial automation.
• Integrate sensors and data acquisition systems into robotic platforms.
• Develop and optimise control algorithms for motion control and system stability.
• Program, debug, and commission PLCs to interface with robots, safety systems, and peripherals.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and controls teams to define system architecture.
• Conduct on-site installation, start-up, and commissioning in Michigan.
• Create technical documentation including specs, I/O lists, and test procedures.
• Analyze performance data and implement improvements for reliability and efficiency.

Skills

Python

C/C++

Sensor integration

Data acquisition

PLC programming

Control systems

Robotics

Motion control

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens PLCs

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Job Description

Step into a pivotal engineering role where you’ll shape advanced robotic and automation solutions for industrial clients across Michigan. You’ll work at the intersection of hardware, software, and control systems, integrating cutting‑edge sensors and data acquisition platforms to deliver reliable, high‑performance robotic applications. This is a contract opportunity suited to a hands‑on engineer who thrives in fast‑paced, project‑driven environments.

About the Role:

You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and commissioning robotic systems with a strong focus on sensor integration, data acquisition, and motion control. Working closely with cross‑functional teams, you’ll translate functional requirements into robust automation solutions that improve throughput, quality, and safety on the factory floor. Your work will directly impact project delivery timelines and system performance for multiple industrial clients.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and implement robotic control software using Python and C/C++ for industrial automation applications.
• Integrate and configure a variety of sensors (e.g., vision, proximity, force/torque, encoders) and data acquisition systems into robotic platforms.
• Develop, test, and optimise control algorithms for motion control, path planning, and system stability in industrial environments.
• Program, debug, and commission PLCs to interface with robots, safety systems, and peripheral equipment on production lines.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and controls teams to define system architecture and ensure seamless integration of hardware and software.
• Conduct on‑site installation, start‑up, and troubleshooting of robotic and automation systems at customer facilities in Michigan.
• Create technical documentation, including system specifications, I/O lists, control logic descriptions, and test procedures.
• Analyse system performance data and implement improvements to enhance reliability, cycle time, and overall equipment effectiveness.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Robotics Engineer or Controls/Automation Engineer working with industrial robotic systems.
• Strong hands‑on expertise in sensor integration and data acquisition for real‑time control applications.
• Proficiency in Python and C/C++ for control software development, data processing, and automation scripting.
• Solid understanding of control systems engineering, including PID control, motion control, and feedback systems.
• Practical experience with industrial automation platforms, including configuring and integrating robots, PLCs, and HMIs.
• Demonstrated ability to program and troubleshoot PLCs from major vendors (e.g., Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and system wiring diagrams.
• Willingness to work on‑site at manufacturing facilities and support commissioning, testing, and issue resolution under project deadlines.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa) including setup, calibration, and advanced programming.
• Familiarity with machine vision systems and image processing for inspection or guidance applications.
• Exposure to industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, OPC UA).
• Experience with safety PLCs, safety standards, and risk assessments for robotic cells.
• Knowledge of data logging, historian systems, or IIoT platforms for performance monitoring and analytics.
• Background in model‑based design or simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) for control system development.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline preferred for complex control and integration work.
• Relevant certifications in industrial robotics, PLC programming, or control systems engineering are an advantage.
• Documented training or coursework in sensor technologies, data acquisition, and industrial automation systems is beneficial.