About Us:
Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is a growing, innovative company specializing in the development and manufacturing of radioisotopic power sources. Our small but dynamic team is dedicated to advancing energy solutions and being at the forefront of this cutting-edge technology. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment where every team member can thrive and grow professionally.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a hands-on Automation Engineer with strong experience in LabVIEW, Nordson systems, Yaskawa robotics, and automation software development. This engineer will be instrumental in maintaining and improving our current generation of automation equipment while helping design and deploy our next-generation manufacturing systems. The ideal candidate combines technical breadth with practical implementation experience and a continuous improvement mindset.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and troubleshoot existing automated production machinery, ensuring high uptime and performance.
- Design and implement upgrades to automation systems to improve reliability, throughput, and quality.
- Lead development efforts for next-generation automated manufacturing cells, including requirements gathering, prototyping, testing, and deployment.
- Program, integrate, and optimize Yaskawa robotic arms, Nordson dispensing systems, and custom LabVIEW-based control systems.
- Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers and Radiation Safety Officer to ensure system compatibility and performance and radiation safety.
- Develop and maintain system documentation, including wiring diagrams, control logic flow, and user manuals.
- Work with external vendors and integrators as needed for sourcing components or expanding system capability.
Required Qualifications
- B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation or robotic systems.
- Proficiency in LabVIEW (experience developing control or test systems).
- Working knowledge of Nordson dispensing systems and Yaskawa robotics (Motoman preferred).
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, C++, JavaScript, or structured text PLC programming).
- Strong troubleshooting skills in both hardware and software contexts.
- Familiarity with control systems, sensors, actuators, and electrical panels.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.).
- CAD and electrical schematic design (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical).
- Experience with vision systems or automated inspection tools.
- Familiarity with data acquisition systems and SCADA.
- Previous experience in radiological environments.
Who you are:
- You’re motivated by a challenge - we are a small team with a big mission, we are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast paced environment and doesn’t back down from a challenge.
- You strive for excellence and see setbacks as opportunities - we are constantly improving as we bring our first of a kind product to market, we believe that no solution is too out there and we are always open to looking at things from a different perspective.
- A teamplayer - you will have a key role at the forefront of developing our technology, we are looking for a collaborative individual that can navigate between R&D and manufacturability, work with internal teams and vendors to develop the next generation on production machines.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
- Comprehensive health insurance
- 401K plan with company matching
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment
Top Skills
What We Do
Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is at the forefront of developing, manufacturing, and revolutionizing Radioisotopic Power Sources (RPS). Situated in Oak Ridge, TN, our radiological lab is dedicated to harnessing the high energy density of isotopes for compact power and electronic devices. Our goal is to redefine power solutions by leveraging continuous and steady energy emission from isotopes, enhancing the longevity and usability of devices such as sensors and small satellites. Direct Kinetic Solutions envisions being the power solution for future generations. You are invited to join us at the early stage of our high-growth, high-potential startup. Your role will be pivotal in defining the company, leaving a lasting impact on operations, product development, facility growth, and team dynamics.
Why Work With Us
Direct Kinetic Solutions, Inc. (DKS) is a growing, innovative company specializing in the development and manufacturing of radioisotopic power sources. Our small but dynamic team is dedicated to advancing energy solutions and being at the forefront of this cutting-edge technology. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative work e
