Freelance Machine Vision Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

At BOS Innovations, we design and build advanced automation systems that move manufacturing forward. Our programmers are at the heart of that innovation, transforming concepts into intelligent, reliable systems through creativity, precision, and cooperation. We have a collaborative, high-performance team who thrive on solving complex challenges. Whether developing PLC and HMI logic, integrating robotic systems, or optimizing safety and performance, our teams turn ideas into fully functional solutions that make a lasting impact. If you’re ready to bring your programming expertise to a company that values curiosity, diligence, and continuous improvement, BOS is the place to grow.

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: Lexington, KY

Training and Travel Requirement: This role includes on-boarding and training period at our Canadian facility. Candidates must be willing and eligible to travel.

As a Controls & Vision Engineer, you will design, develop, and commission integrated automation systems that combine PLC controls, robotics, and advanced machine vision technologies.

This role will support BOS’s TrueLight projects - a specialized vision-focused division of BOS Innovations dedicated to machine vision automation. TrueLight focuses on advanced inspection and robotic guidance solutions, leveraging 2D/3D vision and AI-enabled technologies to improve manufacturing quality, precision, and overall system performance.

You will work across the full project lifecycle, from concept development and system design through programming, integration, and onsite commissioning, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable, high-performance automation solutions.

This role is ideal for someone with a strong controls background who has exposure to vision systems (or vice versa) and is looking to expand into advanced automation and vision-based technologies, with the opportunity to grow into broader system ownership over time.

• Develop PLC and HMI programs aligned with system requirements and customer specifications
• Integrate I/O, communications, and device interfaces across automation systems
• Troubleshoot system performance, sequencing, and machine functionality during build and commissioning
• Develop and implement safety PLC programs in accordance with applicable standards

• Develop and integrate machine vision applications (2D and 3D) for inspection, validation, and guidance
• Configure and optimize vision systems using platforms such as Cognex, Keyence, LMI, Matrox, Mech-Mind, Photoneo, or similar
• Support implementation of AI-enabled vision tools for inspection and classification applications
• Calibrate, test, and troubleshoot vision systems to meet accuracy and performance requirements

• Integrate PLC, robotics, and vision systems into cohesive automation solutions
• Commission systems onsite, including I/O validation, communication setup, and system testing
• Identify and resolve technical issues across controls, robotics, and vision components
• Optimize system performance for uptime, accuracy, and repeatability

• 4+ years of experience in PLC programming within industrial automation
• Experience integrating machine vision systems (2D or 3D) in manufacturing environments
• Strong understanding of controls systems, I/O, and communications
• Hands‑on experience with system commissioning and troubleshooting
• Experience working in industrial or manufacturing environments

• Experience with robotics integration
• Experience with AI-based vision tools or advanced inspection systems
• Familiarity with vision‑based inspection technologies
• Willingness to travel across the U.S. and to Canada as required

BOS welcomes applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Your interest in this opportunity is appreciated. Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States of America, and be able to travel to Canada as required. Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

You are a technically strong and curious engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of controls and vision systems. You are comfortable working across multiple technologies and disciplines, and you enjoy solving complex problems that require both structured programming and creative thinking. You can handle pressure in fast-paced project environments and adapt quickly as system requirements evolve.

You communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, take initiative in your work, and are motivated to continuously expand your technical capabilities, particularly in advanced automation and vision-based technologies.

• Competitive base compensation
• Annual profit sharing
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match

• Flexible extended health and dental plans
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Leadership and mentorship programs
• Career planning and goal setting
• Internal advancement opportunities

• Staff appreciation lunches & socials
• Bi-annual company events
• Employee recognition programs