Controls Engineer
Summary
The Robotics Engineer designs, programs, and commissions industrial robot workcells on Deterrence's automated production line in the Dallas area. This is an execution role: you will take cells from layout and simulation through programming, integration with PLC and safety systems, and production ramp. FANUC experience is strongly preferred; KUKA or ABB experience is applicable. We are hiring multiple engineers across levels.
Key Responsibilities
- Program and commission industrial robots (FANUC TP/KAREL; KUKA KRL or ABB RAPID also considered).
- Develop cell layouts, reach studies, cycle-time models, and collision checks in ROBOGUIDE or equivalent simulation tools.
- Integrate robots with PLCs, safety controllers, vision systems, conveyance, and tooling.
- Design, specify, or adapt end-of-arm tooling, fixturing, and sensing for assigned applications.
- Tune motion, payload, and accuracy for material handling, assembly, machine-tending, or inspection applications.
- Implement and validate robotic safety per ISO 10218 and ANSI/RIA R15.06.
- Lead cell bring-up, FAT/SAT, and production support; troubleshoot robotic and electromechanical faults to root cause.
- Maintain program documentation, version control, and change records.
- Train technicians and operators on cell operation and fault recovery.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related engineering field, or equivalent experience.
- Engineer: 2+ years · Senior: 5+ years · Staff: 8+ years programming and commissioning industrial robots in production.
- Solid understanding of robot kinematics, frames and coordinate systems, and motion optimization.
- Experience integrating robots with PLC and safety systems.
- Ability to read mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic drawings.
- Experience commissioning cells on a live production floor.
Level Expectations
Staff additionally architects multi-robot cells, owns the robotics scope for an equipment line, leads design reviews, and mentors engineers.
Preferred Skills
- FANUC certification; experience with external axes, line tracking, iRVision, or force control.
- Offline programming and digital-twin workflows.
- Machine vision and 2D/3D inspection integration.
- Siemens PLC and Profinet/ProfiSafe familiarity.
- Experience in aerospace, munitions, automotive, or other high-reliability manufacturing.