Automation Controls & Robotics Engineer; Contractor

Duration: 3–4 months (potential extension)

Schedule: Full-time or part-time project support considered

Engagement Type: Contract

Deliverables include: commissioned system functionality, updated controls drawings reflecting field changes, and lightweight knowledge transfer

We’re engaging a highly hands‑on Automation Controls & Robotics Contractor to support rapid programming, integration, and commissioning of a multi-equipment automation system used in specialized product assembly.

This role is focused on fast execution, debugging, and production stabilization rather than long-term system ownership. The contractor will work directly on equipment alongside internal engineering to remove integration blockers and drive the system to reliable operation.

This role operates under the technical direction of the senior automation engineer and focuses on hands‑on implementation, debugging, and commissioning support.

This is a 3–4 month on-site engagement in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)
• Develop and refine automation logic using LabVIEW
• Program and optimize Yaskawa robotic systems, including coordinated motion and cycle improvements
• Integrate Keyence sensors, vision systems, and instrumentation into automated workflows
• Configure and tune servo motor drives and motion systems
• Build, modify, and troubleshoot electrical control panels
• Perform controls wiring and field wiring across interconnected equipment
• Read, interpret, and update electrical schematics and controls drawings to reflect field changes
• Diagnose and resolve electromechanical and automation integration issues during commissioning
• Rapidly debug and stabilize automation cells for sustained production runs
• Validate system functionality across robotics, dispensing, motion, and measurement platforms
• Provide concise documentation of final controls changes and support knowledge transfer to internal staff

• Demonstrated experience programming Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley PLCs in production environments
• Strong hands‑on experience programming Yaskawa robots
• Experience with LabVIEW in automation, test, or controls applications
• Experience with servo motion systems and drive tuning
• Experience integrating Keyence automation components (sensors, vision, measurement)
• Ability to independently build, wire, and troubleshoot control panels
• Hands‑on experience working safely with industrial power systems (240V/480V three‑phase), including panel modifications, drive integration, and commissioning support
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control drawings, and field wiring practices
• Hands‑on automation experience in industrial or manufacturing environments, including commissioning equipment used in production or high‑reliability assembly
• Demonstrated success in commissioning automation equipment in manufacturing environments under tight production timelines

• Experience with automated dispensing platforms (e.g., Nordson)
• Experience synchronizing robotics with motion and measurement systems
• Familiarity with safety PLCs, interlocks, and machine safety practices
• Experience working in high‑precision or regulated manufacturing environments
• Prior work as an automation integrator or contract controls engineer

• Highly hands‑on and comfortable working directly on active production equipment
• Able to move quickly through ambiguity and diagnose problems across hardware and software boundaries
• Focused on execution, practical solutions, and production readiness
• Comfortable operating independently within a small engineering team under the direction of a senior automation engineer