Robotics & Automation Project Engineer

About the role: As a Robotics and Automation Project Engineer, you will own advanced support requirements, as well as the reliability and continuous improvement of deployed robotic systems. You will operate at the intersection of troubleshooting, system optimization, and product-level enhancement, ensuring automation systems perform consistently in demanding production environments. This role blends reactive support with proactive engineering. You will diagnose complex issues, implement structured improvements, and partner cross-functionally to strengthen system stability across the fleet. Your work directly impacts uptime, performance consistency, and long-term customer outcomes. In this role you will: Diagnose and resolve complex automation failures to minimize production downtime Design and implement preventative and predictive strategies that improve system reliability Lead system-level continuous improvement initiatives, including hardware and software upgrades Analyze production data and diagnostic trends to identify systemic performance gaps Provide remote support by responding to service tickets, guiding troubleshooting efforts, and triaging to onsite teams when needed Partner with Product, Deployment, and Engineering teams to standardize equipment configurations and improve repeatability Own and maintain system documentation, including procedures, maintenance logs, and change-control records Serve as the escalation point for complex technical issues across the fleet Mentor field technicians and engineers on troubleshooting and system health best practices Ensure compliance with safety standards, internal quality requirements, and industry regulations Collaborate with vendors to improve parts availability, diagnostics capability, and technical support What makes you a great fit: 10+ years of experience in manufacturing automation or industrial robotics environments Strong proficiency in programming PLCs, robots, and industrial control systems Solid understanding of robotic systems, motion systems, and automated manufacturing equipment Hands-on experience diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and control system failures Ability to read electrical schematics and technical drawings Experience working in uptime-critical manufacturing environments Strong problem-solving skills and structured troubleshooting approach Clear written and verbal communication skills Ability to work independently while collaborating cross-functionally Willingness to travel up to 50% based on business needs Valid driver’s license and ability to support local travel Bonus points if you have: Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments Experience standardizing equipment across multiple deployed sites\ Exposure to data-driven maintenance or predictive monitoring tools Our Total Rewards: At Formic, we believe people do their best work when they feel supported both professionally and personally. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits and perks package for full-time, U.S.-based team members, including: Equity in Formic: Participate in our stock option program and share in the success of a fast-growing start-up backed by leading global investors Competitive & Uncapped Commission Structure: Designed to reward performance and impact in commission-eligible roles Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield and Unum, with 99% of employee premiums covered and 75% coverage for dependents, with optional buy-up plans available Additional Insurance Benefits: FSA and DCFSA, life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability through Unum, all 100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Fully funded by Formic, offering support when you need it most Paid Parental Leave Program: Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave Company-sponsored 401(k): Invest in your future with our company-facilitated retirement savings plan Home Office Stipend: A one-time allowance for fully remote and hybrid employees to support an at-home or on-the-road work setup Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement: Monthly stipend toward personal phone and internet expenses Paid Time Off: Take the time you need, when you need it. 15 days of paid time off, in addition to company holidays Compensation Philosophy Formic’s pay and equity packages are thoughtfully benchmarked against peer companies at a similar growth stage. Equity represents a meaningful part of our mutual investment: when Formic succeeds, so do you. This role is paid hourly with a posted range of $38–$46 per hour. Based on the nature of field service work - which consistently runs approximately 50+ hours per week including travel, site activity, and documentation - total annualized earnings typically range from $109,000 - $132,000 , depending on experience, hourly rate, and actual hours worked. Overtime is paid in accordance with applicable federal and state law for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Hourly Rate $38 — $46 USD What we look for: We’re building this company from the ground up, and every person we hire has an outsized impact on our culture, performance, and trajectory. While each team member brings unique strengths and perspectives, we look for people who align with our Operating Principles and embody them in action. If this sounds like you, Formic may be the right place for you! Fearless Optimism: You make bold bets and default optimistic. You believe in the mission, aren’t paralyzed by risk, and fear inaction more than failure. You see ambiguity as opportunity and bring energy to building what doesn’t yet exist. Create the Magic: You absorb complexity so customers don’t have to. Whether your customer is external or internal, you focus on delivering experiences that are clear, fast, value-added, and outcome-driven. You don’t say “not my job.” You make things work. Today, Not Tomorrow: You have a bias to action. You close the loop. You take extreme ownership. You understand that speed compo