Robotics & Automation Project Engineer

Who we are

Formic is on a mission to reshape American manufacturing by making automation accessible to every factory. As labor constraints rise, costs increase, and global competition intensifies, automation is no longer optional for manufacturers that want to stay competitive.

We deliver automation through a Robotics-as-a-Service model that combines industrial robotics, proprietary software, and full-service support into a single, integrated solution. By removing traditional barriers of cost, complexity, and risk, manufacturers can deploy automation quickly and realize measurable gains in throughput, safety, and operational efficiency without large upfront capital investment.

About the team

The Fleet Operations Team drives uptime and operational performance across a growing fleet of deployed robotic systems. Working inside live manufacturing environments, the team diagnoses issues, restores production, and continuously improves system reliability at scale.

About the role

As Project Engineer, you will own advanced technical support and the long-term reliability of deployed robotic systems. You will operate at the intersection of troubleshooting, system optimization, and product improvement to ensure automation systems perform consistently in demanding production environments.

This role blends reactive support with proactive engineering, directly impacting system uptime, performance consistency, and long-term customer success.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and resolve complex automation failures to minimize production downtime
• Design and implement preventative and predictive strategies to improve system reliability
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including hardware and software upgrades
• Analyze production data and diagnostic trends to identify systemic performance gaps
• Provide remote support and triage issues to onsite teams when required
• Support field service activities for reactive and preventative maintenance
• Standardize equipment configurations to improve repeatability
• Maintain system documentation and change-control records
• Serve as escalation point for complex technical issues
• Mentor technicians and engineers on troubleshooting best practices
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards
• Collaborate with vendors to improve parts availability and diagnostics

Requirements

• 5+ years in manufacturing automation or industrial robotics
• Proficiency programming PLCs, robots, and industrial control systems
• Strong understanding of robotic and motion systems
• Hands-on experience diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and control failures
• Ability to read electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Experience in uptime-critical manufacturing environments
• Willingness to travel up to 50%
• Valid driver's license

Benefits

• Equity through stock option program
• Competitive & uncapped commission structure (eligible roles)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• FSA, DCFSA, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Up to 12 weeks paid parental leave
• Company-sponsored 401(k)
• Home office stipend
• Monthly cell phone reimbursement
• 15 days paid time off plus company holidays

Compensation

Hourly rate of $38–$46. With typical field service hours (approximately 50+ hours per week), total annualized earnings range from $109,000–$132,000 depending on experience and hours worked. Overtime is paid in accordance with applicable federal and state law.

Equal Opportunity Employment

All employment decisions are based on merit, business needs, and role requirements.

AI Use

AI-powered tools may be used in some interviews; all final hiring decisions are made by humans.