Robotics Engineer Jobs in Independence, KY (NOW HIRING)

About the job Robotic Fabrication Tech
At 1872 AI, we are transforming industrial manufacturing in the United States by building AI-native factories capable of lights-out production-from CAD to finished part with minimal human input. Our initial focus targets the energy and infrastructure sectors-power generation, grid infrastructure, and compute facilities-where critical supply chain bottlenecks in steel fabrication are limiting growth.
About the Role
Join 1872's production team as a hands-on fabricator in an early-career role focused on robotic welding and precision steel fabrication. You'll work alongside experienced fabricators and engineers, gaining exposure to advanced manufacturing systems while developing your skills in fitting, welding, and finishing structural steel components. This is a growth-oriented position where you'll rapidly build expertise through real production work.

• Primary Interfaces: Robotic Fabrication Lead, Manufacturing Engineers, Operations Team
• Key Metrics: Quality (visual inspection standards), Learning Progress, Safety Record
• Key Systems/Tools: Robotic welding cells, GMAW/MIG welding, grinding and finishing tools, precision measuring tools (tape measures, squares, calipers), tablets for production tracking

Key Responsibilities

• Precision Fitting Support: Assist with fitting and tacking structural steel components under supervision of senior fabricators. Learn to stage and tack structural components (skids, frames, e-houses) with attention to dimensional accuracy.
• Robotic Cell Operation: Learn to operate and monitor robotic welding systems. Assist with loading fixtures, monitoring robotic weld cycles, and learning how to optimize systems for quality and throughput.
• Finishing & Detail Work: Perform basic grinding and finishing operations on welded components to prepare for paint or further processing. Learn the difference between functional and high-quality finish standards.
• Basic Weld Repair: Under supervision, learn to perform manual MIG repairs on minor defects and understand when to escalate to senior fabricators.
• Quality Awareness: Conduct visual inspections of completed welds and learn quality standards. Understand common weld defects (porosity, undercut, lack of fusion).
• Shop Support: Support material handling, fixture setup, tool organization, and general shop operations.
• Continuous Learning: Participate in training programs to develop skills in precision fabrication and robotic manufacturing. Collaborate with engineers and senior fabricators to troubleshoot issues and improve processes.

Base Qualifications

• 2-4 years of welding or fabrication experience, OR recent graduate from a welding/fabrication program with some industry experience
• Basic proficiency in GMAW (MIG) welding on structural steel
• Familiarity with measuring tools, blueprints, and basic shop math
• Interest in learning about robotic systems and automation-no prior robotics experience required

We consider equivalent experience. If you meet most of the requirements, apply. Preferred Qualifications

• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn
• Comfortable working in a startup environment with hands-on, varied responsibilities
• Tech-curious mindset-excited to work alongside automation and learn new systems

Why Join

• What you'll build first: Work on structural steel skids and e-houses for datacenter and power grid applications, learning to use cutting-edge robotic fabrication technology
• Impact: Your precision fitting and finishing work directly contributes to achieving world-class quality and throughput, helping rebuild American manufacturing competitiveness
• Growth: Clear career path to advance to Robotic Fabrication Lead within 2-3 years as you develop skills. Receive mentorship from experienced fabricators with aerospace and SpaceX backgrounds, with hands-on training worth thousands in educational value

How to Apply Fill out the application form and see what we can build together! Please include:

• Resume or LinkedIn profile
• 3-5 photos of your best work showing your welding and fabrication capabilities

This role is based on-site in Cincinnati, OH and is not open to remote work. 1872 AI is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to building a diverse team and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. To request a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact recruiting@1872.ai. This position may be subject to a background check in accordance with applicable law. A criminal record will not automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration.