Senior Robotics & Automation Project Engineer

Roboticsconnected; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in Formic

Uncapped commission structure

Comprehensive healthcare

Job summary

Formic is seeking a Robotics & Automation Project Engineer to design, analyze, and optimize deployed robotic systems. You will diagnose complex problems, develop engineered solutions, and apply technical judgment across Formic's fleet in demanding production environments.

This role blends reactive support with proactive engineering, including remote ticket support, cross-functional collaboration, and ongoing system improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, controls engineering, mechatronics, robotics engineering, or another directly related engineering discipline
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing automation or industrial robotics environments
• Strong proficiency in programming PLCs, robots, and industrial control systems
• Solid understanding of robotic systems, motion systems, and automated manufacturing equipment
• Hands-on experience diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and control system failures
• Ability to read electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Experience working in uptime-critical manufacturing environments
• Strong problem-solving skills and structured troubleshooting approach
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating cross-functionally
• Willingness to travel up to 50% based on business needs
• Valid driver’s license and ability to support local travel

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and resolve complex automation failures to minimize production downtime
• Design and implement preventative and predictive strategies that improve system reliability
• Lead system-level continuous improvement initiatives, including hardware and software upgrades
• Analyze production data and diagnostic trends to identify systemic performance gaps
• Provide remote support by responding to service tickets, guiding troubleshooting efforts, and triaging to onsite teams when needed
• Partner with Product, Deployment, and Engineering teams to standardize equipment configurations and improve repeatability
• Own and maintain system documentation, including procedures, maintenance logs, and change-control records
• Serve as the escalation point for complex technical issues across the fleet
• Mentor field technicians and engineers on troubleshooting and system health best practices
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, internal quality requirements, and industry regulations
• Collaborate with vendors to improve parts availability, diagnostics capability, and technical support

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics knowledge

Troubleshooting

Reading schematics

Independent work

Cross-functional collaboration

Travel up to 50%

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical/mechanical/controls/mechatronics/robotics engineering

Tools

Industrial control systems

Electrical schematics

Job description

Formic is seeking a Robotics & Automation Project Engineer to design, analyze, and optimize deployed robotic systems. You will diagnose complex problems, develop engineered solutions, and apply technical judgment across Formic's fleet in demanding production environments.

This role blends reactive support with proactive engineering, including remote ticket support, cross-functional collaboration, and ongoing system improvements.