Robotics Engineering Lead

Robotics Engineering Lead

Location: Santa Rosa, CAEmployment Type: Full-Time / Direct HireWork Arrangement: OnsitePosition OverviewWe are seeking a hands-on Robotics Engineering Lead to lead the automation of manufacturing processes from concept through production.

This role will serve as the technical robotics expert, responsible for designing, programming, integrating, and commissioning cobots and AMRs while mentoring engineers and technicians.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify and prioritize manufacturing processes suitable for automation.Design, program, integrate, and commission cobots for assembly, material handling, machine tending, inspection, and testing.Deploy and integrate AMRs for automated material movement, route planning, and workstation hand-offs.Own projects from requirements and simulation through FAT/SAT, validation, commissioning, and production hand-off.Integrate robots with vision systems, sensors, grippers, end-effectors, and factory equipment.Lead technical design reviews, troubleshoot systems, and mentor engineering/technical teams.Work with vendors on robotics/AMR solutions and partner with safety teams on risk assessments and compliance.Develop documentation, operating procedures, and training for production teams.Required QualificationsBachelor's/Master's/Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.3+ years of industrial robotics/automation experience in a live manufacturing environment.Strong combination of software and mechanical engineering skills.Hands-on experience programming and integrating cobots, such as Universal Robots or similar.Experience with AMRs and factory material-handling automation.Experience with robot simulation/offline programming and cobot cell design.Experience integrating vision, sensors, grippers, and end-effectors.Strong technical leadership, troubleshooting, and cross-functional communication skills.PreferredROS / ROS 2 experience.Robot simulation/digital-twin tools such as RobotStudio or RoboDK.2D/3D machine vision and force/torque control.AMR fleet management and MES/WMS integration.CAD experience with Creo, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD.Electronics/precision or high-mix manufacturing experience.Knowledge of ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066, ISO 12100, or ISO 13849.