Sr. Specialist, Robot Programming

Bernard Nickels & Associates; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Annual bonus 15%

Job summary

Bernard Nickels & Associates in Blythewood, SC is seeking a Sr. Specialist, Robot Programming to lead paint programming efforts within our new EV manufacturing facility.

This onsite, full-time role focuses on advancing automation, robotics, and lean processes. The position offers a base salary range of $110,000–$135,000 plus a 15% annual discretionary bonus, with relocation assistance for candidates outside 60 miles.

Qualifications

• 8+ years hands-on experience programming robotic paint applications.
• Bachelor’s (or Master’s) degree in engineering or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• Certifications in lean manufacturing or Six Sigma can be beneficial.
• Experience with Fanuc, ABB, or Dürr robotic systems.
• Fanuc Dispense Tool and Paint Tool/Pro experience is a plus.
• Experience with process/prog simulation software.
• Knowledge of sealer processes in manufacturing and QA.
• Lean Six Sigma proficiency in process improvement.
• Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Project management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Continuous improvement mindset driving operational excellence.
• Knowledge of ISO, VDA, and related paint quality requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead paint standards and best practices on a daily basis.
• Train and develop new team members in problem solving, programming and continuous improvement.
• Monitor application performance, provide feedback, and ensure KPIs are met.
• Plan, organize and follow application quality to ensure optimal coverage.
• Ensure safety protocols are followed and the environment is safe and efficient.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering to align with Quality needs.
• Define and provide regular updates and reports to Management.
• Identify inefficiencies and savings in the paint process and propose plans.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve team efficiency.

Skills

Robotic paint programming

Lean Six Sigma

Problem solving

Project management

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in engineering or related field

Tools

Fanuc

ABB

Dürr

Fanuc Dispense Tool & Paint Tool/Pro

Job description

Job Title: Sr. Specialist, Robot Programming

Job Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Job Location: Blythewood, SC (onsite role)

NOTE: Company-provided relocation assistance is available for any candidate located 60+ miles outside of Blythewood, SC.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week (standard business hours)

Compensation: $110,000–$135,000 (base salary range) + Annual Discretionary Bonus (15%)

Overview: Our client is an emerging electric vehicle manufacturer focused on reviving a legacy American SUV and truck brand through next-generation electrification and advanced manufacturing. With a new U.S. production facility underway, the company is building out cutting-edge manufacturing operations from the ground up, combining automation, robotics, and modern production systems.

What you’ll do:

• Technical: Lead paint standards and best practices, ensuring they are respected efficiently on a daily basis.
• Training & Development: Train and develop new team members, improving skills to problem solving, programming and continuous improvement.
• Performance Management: Monitor the application performance, provide constructive feedback, and ensure that key performance indicators (KPIs) are met.
• Following: Plan, organize and follow application Quality to ensure optimal coverage depending on operational needs.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure the team follows safety protocols and best practices, maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient environment.
• Cross-Department Communication: Collaborate and coordinate with Production, Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering colleagues to ensure smooth communication and alignment with Quality needs and continuous improvement.
• Reporting: Define and provide regular updates and reports to Management.
• Process Optimization: Identify inefficiencies, improvements, and savings in the paint process and propose plans.
• Continuous improvement: Apply lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste, improve and optimize the overall team efficiency to contribute to the overall productivity of the paint application.

Qualifications:

• 8+ years of hands-on experience programming robotic paint applications.
• Bachelor's (or master's) degree in engineering or related field. An equivalent amount of relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
• Relevant certifications in related fields, lean manufacturing, or Six Sigma can be beneficial.
• Knowledge of and experience with at least one of the following robot systems: Fanuc (preferred), ABB, and/or Dürr.
• Fanuc Dispense Tool and Paint Tool / Pro experience is a plus.
• Experience with process/prog simulation software and familiarity with
• Knowledge of sealer processes, including but not limited to, manufacturing and quality control.
• Proficiency in process improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to analyze data and make data-driven decisions.
• Project management skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on driving operational excellence
• Knowledge and experience in Quality Management Systems (ISO, VDA, etc) and related Paint Quality requirements.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with teams and cross-functional teams.
• Creative thinking and Strong problem-solving to identify root causes.
• Decision-making skills to handle and solve Quality issues.
• Ability to manage time effectively, ensuring deliverables are met on time without compromising quality or safety.
• Precision and attention to detail.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols in painting lines, especially in high-risk areas like robotized painting booths.

What you'll gain:

The benefits of joining our client’s organization include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up. This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation. Our client provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, including:

• Competitive insurance including: Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including: 20 days planned PTO (as accrued), 40 hours of unplanned PTO, and 14 annual company or floating holidays
• Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
• Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave