Freelance Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Who we are

With its A.I.-powered robotic technology platform, Symbotic is changing the way consumer goods move through the supply chain. Intelligent software orchestrates advanced robots in a high-density, end-to-end system – reinventing warehouse automation for increased efficiency, speed and flexibility.

What we need 

Symbotic is seeking a System Engineer to support the day-to-day reliability, availability, and performance of our automated warehouse systems in a live production environment. This role is hands-on and operational in nature, aligned closely with a Maintenance Engineer or Lead Automation Technician profile. The System Engineer focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and stabilizing complex electro-mechanical and automated systems to ensure safe, consistent system uptime. This role is not commissioning-focused, not controls-programming-heavy, and not customer-facing, but instead centered on system health, equipment reliability, and technical execution on site 

What we do  

The System Engineer is part of the Customer Operations organization which is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of Symbotic’s robotic material handling system. The Customer Operations organization drives operational excellence by engaging and partnering with our onsite customers to drive best-in-class quality, safety and system performance.   

What you’ll do 

• Monitor and maintain the health of automated systems including conveyors, lifts, robotic vehicles, motors, sensors, and PLC-controlled equipment. 

• Perform advanced electrical, mechanical, and automation troubleshooting to resolve production-impacting issues. 

• Diagnose failures across PLCs (Allen-Bradley), VFDs, AC/DC motors, servo motors, sensors, and control hardware. 

• Support and execute preventive and corrective maintenance activities on automated equipment. 

• Utilize system data, alarms, logs, and dashboards to identify fault conditions and recurring issues. 

• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and findings using CMMS systems (e.g., Maximo) and internal tools. 

• Act as a senior technical escalation point during system disruptions or downtime events. 

• Partner with on-site maintenance, operations, and technical teams to restore and stabilize system performance. 

• Provide technical guidance and on-the-job support to maintenance technicians and operators. 

• Step in to support critical on-site technical functions as needed to maintain operational continuity. 

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, LOTO, electrical safety, and Symbotic safety standards. 

What you’ll need 

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience. 

• Minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience with PLCs, preferably Allen-Bradley, focused on diagnostics and troubleshooting (not heavy programming). 

• Minimum of 1 year of experience with VFDs, including diagnosing speed, torque, and drive-related issues. 

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with AC and DC motors. 

• Hands-on experience with automated systems such as conveyor systems, conveyor belts, vertical lifts, and motor-driven equipment. 

• Experience supporting autonomous or semi-autonomous systems, including conveyors, lifts, AS/RS, robotics, servo motors, or 480V systems. 

• Working knowledge of SQL, Python, and Linux for diagnostics, log review, and system interaction. 

• Strong hands-on experience assembling, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting robotics and electro-mechanical systems. 

• Prior experience in maintenance engineering, automation maintenance, or lead maintenance technician roles preferred. 

Our Environment 

• Work is performed in an active industrial environment with high levels of automation. 

• Ability to work at heights of up to 45 feet and within confined spaces. 

• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 

• Exposure to varying temperatures and production conditions. 

• Must comply with all PPE, LOTO, fall protection, and electrical safety requirements. 

• Ability to work flexible hours, including off-shifts, as needed to support system uptime and recovery. 

• Valid driver’s license . 

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About Symbotic

Symbotic is an automation technology leader reimagining the supply chain with its end-to-end, AI-powered robotic and software platform. Symbotic reinvents the warehouse as a strategic asset for the world’s largest retail, wholesale, and food & beverage companies. Applying next-gen technology, high-density storage and machine learning to solve today's complex distribution challenges, Symbotic enables companies to move goods with unmatched speed, agility, accuracy and efficiency. As the backbone of commerce the Symbotic platform transforms the flow of goods and the economics of supply chain for its customers. For more information, visit www.symbotic.com.

We are a community of innovators, collaborators and pioneers who embrace our differences, because we know unique perspectives make us stronger and smarter. Every perspective matters. We depend on the collective voices of our employees, customers and community to help guide us as we build a better place to work – for you and the world. That’s why we’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. 

We do not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information. 

The base range for this position in the posted location is $71,000.00 - $97,900.00 however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 401K, PTO and/or other benefits.