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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Robotic Technician

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

ManufacturingEngineeringTechnologySkilled TradesAutomation

🎯 Role Definition

Are you passionate about the future of automation? We are searching for a highly motivated and technically proficient Robotic Technician to join our cutting-edge operations team. In this critical role, you will be the backbone of our automated manufacturing processes, ensuring our robotic systems operate at peak performance, efficiency, and safety. You will be responsible for everything from routine preventative maintenance and emergency troubleshooting to programming adjustments and new system installations. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with state-of-the-art robotic technology (including Fanuc, ABB, and KUKA systems) and make a direct impact on our production quality and output. If you are a proactive problem-solver with a strong background in mechatronics and a drive for continuous improvement, we want you on our team.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Electromechanical Technician
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • Field Service Technician
  • Recent Graduate of a Mechatronics or Robotics Program

Advancement To:

  • Lead Robotic Technician / Robotics Team Lead
  • Automation Engineer
  • Controls Engineer
  • Maintenance Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Field Service Engineer
  • PLC Programmer
  • Quality Assurance Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform advanced troubleshooting and complex repairs on multi-axis industrial robotic systems, including mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic components.
  • Execute, document, and optimize preventive and predictive maintenance schedules on all robotic equipment and automated cells to minimize downtime.
  • Install, set up, and commission new robotic systems, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), and peripheral equipment, ensuring seamless integration into existing production lines.
  • Create, modify, and debug robot programs (e.g., Fanuc TP, ABB RAPID) to enhance cycle times, improve product quality, and adapt to new production requirements.
  • Diagnose and resolve intricate issues within Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), HMIs, and associated control systems that interface with robotic workcells.
  • Calibrate robot mastering, user frames, tool center points (TCP), and vision systems to ensure precise and repeatable performance.
  • Perform root cause analysis on recurring robotic and automation failures, implementing robust and sustainable corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence.
  • Read and interpret complex electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics, blueprints, and technical documentation for troubleshooting and installation.
  • Ensure all robotic systems, safety circuits, and light curtains comply with internal and external safety standards, such as OSHA, ANSI, and RIA regulations.
  • Conduct comprehensive testing and validation of robotic systems after repairs, modifications, or programming changes to certify production readiness.
  • Manage and maintain a well-organized inventory of critical spare parts for robotic systems to ensure rapid recovery from equipment breakdowns.
  • Respond urgently to production line stoppages, quickly identifying faults and executing repairs to restore manufacturing operations.
  • Train and mentor machine operators and junior maintenance personnel on the safe operation, basic troubleshooting, and daily upkeep of robotic equipment.
  • Utilize specialized diagnostic software and equipment, such as multimeters and oscilloscopes, to effectively pinpoint hardware and software faults.
  • Collaborate closely with the engineering team on the design, layout, and implementation of new automation projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

Secondary Functions

  • Support continuous improvement projects (Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing) by providing technical expertise and data-driven insights on equipment performance.
  • Analyze equipment performance data and maintenance records from the CMMS to identify negative trends and proactively address potential issues.
  • Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical documentation, and maintenance work instructions for robotic systems.
  • Assist in the evaluation, selection, and procurement of new robotic technologies, components, and vendors to keep our facility at the forefront of automation.
  • Participate in daily shift hand-off meetings, project planning sessions, and safety reviews to ensure clear communication and alignment across teams.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in accordance with 5S principles and company safety protocols.
  • Provide on-call support for critical production issues during off-hours or weekends as part of a rotational schedule.
  • Contribute to the factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) of new automated equipment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Deep proficiency in programming, troubleshooting, and repairing industrial robots (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB, Yaskawa).
  • Strong knowledge of PLC hardware and software, primarily with Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix) and/or Siemens (S7).
  • Expertise in reading and interpreting electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics and blueprints.
  • Hands-on experience with robotic vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence, Fanuc iRVision) and their integration.
  • Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols such as EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and DeviceNet.
  • Ability to perform precise mechanical and electronic adjustments and alignments on robotic arms and controllers.
  • Proficiency with a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and electronic test equipment, including multimeters and oscilloscopes.
  • Experience working with and maintaining a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
  • Knowledge of AC/DC circuits, VFDs, servo drives, and industrial electrical standards.
  • Ability to perform robot mastering, TCP verification, and path editing.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional analytical and systematic problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical issues to a non-technical audience.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team.
  • A high degree of attention to detail and a commitment to precision and quality.
  • Resilience and composure when working under pressure to resolve urgent production issues.
  • A proactive and safety-first mindset in all aspects of work.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Associate of Science (A.S.) degree or a technical certificate from an accredited institution.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Robotics Technology
  • Mechatronics Engineering
  • Automation Engineering Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology
  • Electrical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-7 years of direct, hands-on experience as a Robotic Technician or in a similar automation-focused role.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a high-volume, 24/7 manufacturing environment (e.g., automotive, consumer electronics, logistics).
  • Formal certifications from major robot manufacturers (e.g., FANUC Certified Service Technician).
  • Experience in a role that required both programming and mechanical/electrical repair of robotic systems.
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