The Associate Robotics Engineer will assist the senior robotics engineer in redesigning drill‑floor equipment for hands‑free and automated pipe handling, researching new robotic hardware and software, developing advanced path‑planning algorithms, and bringing automated solutions to the oil‑and‑gas drilling industry. The role includes lab housekeeping, equipment testing, safety compliance, and training of aftermarket personnel.
Responsibilities- Review existing drill‑floor equipment and propose redesigns for hands‑free or automated pipe handling and drilling.
- Research and evaluate robotic hardware and software technologies to develop new system capabilities.
- Develop and test optimized path‑planning algorithms with advanced collision detection/avoidance.
- Contribute to concept generation, specifications, and control requirements for mobile omni‑directional robots.
- Design and assess electromechanical hardware and software, including advanced sensing, displays, and computer‑vision modules.
- Engineer robotic solutions for oil‑and‑gas pipe‑handling using open‑source or commercial platforms.
- Assist in introducing automated equipment and processes, and train aftermarket personnel post‑deployment.
- Perform laboratory housekeeping, maintain a clean work environment, and conduct equipment testing.
- Collaborate with senior robotics engineer and multidisciplinary teams to meet project milestones.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
- 0–2 years of experience in robotics, automation, or related engineering roles.
- Knowledge of robotic hardware, control systems, and software development (e.g., ROS, PLC programming).
- Familiarity with path‑planning, collision detection, and computer‑vision techniques.
- Experience with mobile omni‑directional robot platforms is a plus.
- Proficiency in CAD/CAE tools for equipment redesign.
- Ability to work safely in a laboratory environment and adhere to HSE protocols.
- Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Willingness to relocate to or currently reside in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
- 0-2 years of experience in robotics, automation, or related engineering roles
- Knowledge of robotic hardware, control systems, and software development
- Knowledge of ROS and PLC programming
- Familiarity with path planning, collision detection, and computer vision
- Proficiency with CAD/CAE tools for equipment redesign
- Ability to work safely in a laboratory environment and follow HSE protocols
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams
- Willingness to relocate to or current residence in Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Experience with mobile omni-directional robot platforms
NOV Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about NOV and has not been reviewed or approved by NOV.
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Healthcare Strength — Company materials describe comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage alongside life/disability insurance, a global EAP, wellness resources, and paid parental leave; the company also states it pays most U.S. health plan premiums, which bolsters perceived value.
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Retirement Support — The 401(k) program features auto‑enrollment, immediate vesting, and ongoing employer contributions; historical filings and comments point to a generally well‑regarded match even as exact formulas can change.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Paid parental leave and widely cited decent PTO at hire are complemented by options like experience‑based vacation credit and a flexible holiday, creating a rounded time‑off offering in many U.S. roles.
NOV Insights
What We Do
NOV delivers technology-driven solutions to empower the global energy industry. For more than 150 years, NOV has pioneered innovations that enable its customers to safely produce abundant energy while minimizing environmental impact. The energy industry depends on NOV’s deep expertise and technology to continually improve oilfield operations and assist in efforts to advance the energy transition towards a more sustainable future. NOV powers the industry that powers the world.
