Robotics Install & Commissioning Technician

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 the traditional barriers of cost, complexity, and risk, we enable manufacturers to deploy automation quickly and realize measurable gains in throughput, safety, and operational efficiency without large upfront capital investment.

Backed by leading investors including Lux Capital, Initialized Capital, Blackhorn Ventures, and Mitsubishi HC Capital North America, Formic is scaling rapidly and building the foundation for a new era of high-performance, Made in America production.

About the team:

The Automation Engineering Team is responsible for delivering robotics-driven automation deployments across a wide range of customer applications.

The team partners cross-functionally to translate customer requirements into deployed systems, ensuring solutions are integrated, commissioned, and validated for reliable performance in real manufacturing environments. Automation Engineering works closely with customers, internal technical teams, and external integrators to execute deployments on schedule while maintaining high standards for quality, safety, and repeatability.

About the role:

As a Robotics Install and Commissioning Technician, you will play a critical role in bringing Formic's robotic systems into live production environments. You will support system integration through hands-on build, configuration, testing, troubleshooting, and validation in the shop, followed by on-site installation and commissioning at customer facilities.

In this role you will:

• Support internal system integration for robotics-driven automation solutions, including mechanical and electrical setup, quality checks, documentation, testing, program updates, troubleshooting, FAT, and final pack-out
• Install and commission Formic solutions at customer sites in close collaboration with Deployment Engineers and Project Managers
• Perform mechanical installation, power-up, testing, troubleshooting, fine-tuning, performance validation, and final documentation
• Support refurbishment and reconditioning of returned systems as needed
• Assist in identifying, validating, and testing solutions in the field and throughout the deployment lifecycle
• Test and troubleshoot new automation solutions under development
• Follow Formic's standardized processes, tools, SOPs, and all applicable safety requirements

What makes you a great fit:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
• 3+ years of hands-on experience with industrial 6-axis robots in installation, maintenance, repair, programming, troubleshooting, or technical support roles
• 3+ years of experience installing and commissioning industrial machinery
• Experience with end-of-line automation systems such as robotic palletizing, depalletizing, and case packing preferred
• Willingness to travel up to 50-60% for deployments
• Highly action-oriented with strong problem-solving instincts and the ability to navigate unfamiliar challenges independently
• Clear, confident written and verbal communication skills
• Comfortable using hand tools and working in hands-on technical environments
• Strong PC and general technical proficiency
• Valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle for local travel (mileage reimbursed per Formic policy)
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds
• Ability to work independently while representing Formic professionally in customer environments
• Based in or willing to relocate to the greater Chicago area and able to work five days per week from Formic's Woodridge, IL office

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,…