Contract Robotics Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Description

Position Summary

Premier Marine is seeking a Robotics & Automation Technician to support, program, troubleshoot, and continuously improve robotic welding systems and automated manufacturing equipment. This position will serve as the primary technical resource for robotic welding operations, ensuring safe operation, maximum uptime, and continuous process improvement while supporting production goals and new product launches.

The Robotics & Automation Technician will work closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Production Supervisors, Quality, Maintenance, and Welding personnel to optimize robotic welding performance and support future automation initiatives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Robotic Welding Support

• Program, teach, and modify robotic weld paths.
• Perform robot setup and changeovers for production requirements.
• Optimize weld parameters to improve quality and cycle time.
• Troubleshoot robotic welding defects and process issues.
• Support launch of new models and product changes.
• Maintain robot programs and backups.

Equipment Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and resolve robotic system faults.
• Troubleshoot welding power supplies, fixtures, sensors, and tooling.
• Perform root cause analysis on downtime events.
• Coordinate repairs with Maintenance and Engineering teams.
• Support preventive maintenance activities.

Process Improvement

• Improve robotic welding cycle times.
• Reduce scrap and rework through process improvements.
• Develop standardized work instructions.
• Identify automation opportunities throughout manufacturing.
• Participate in continuous improvement and kaizen events.

Quality Support

• Ensure robotic welds meet engineering and quality standards.
• Support corrective actions related to weld quality.
• Assist with process validation activities.
• Collaborate with Quality to improve first-pass yield.

Safety

• Maintain robotic cell safety systems.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety requirements.
• Participate in safety audits and risk assessments.
• Train operators on safe robotic cell operation.

Qualifications

Required

• Technical degree in Robotics, Automation, Welding Technology, Manufacturing Technology,  Mechatronics, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 3+ years of industrial manufacturing experience.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting industrial robots.
• Experience with MIG welding processes.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and weld symbols.
• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.

Preferred

• Experience with robotic welding systems.
• Experience with PLC troubleshooting.
• Experience with FANUC, Motoman/Yaskawa, ABB, or Lincoln Electric robotic systems.
• Experience in a high-mix manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Robotic programming and path optimization
• Welding process knowledge
• Root cause problem solving
• Mechanical aptitude
• Electrical troubleshooting
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently
• Project management and organizational skills

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing and walking in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work around welding equipment and robotic machinery.

Ability to climb ladders and access equipment platforms when required. 

Premier Marine offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support employees' health, well-being, and growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; life and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement savings; paid time off; paid holidays; volunteer PTO; and access to an Employee Assistance Program. Additional programs, including a referral bonus, leadership development opportunities, and participation in the Employee Boat Club, are also available.

*The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will" employment relationship. Premier Marine, LLC retains the discretion to add duties or change the duties of this position at any time.