Robotics & Manufacturing Automation Lead

Description

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Robotics & Manufacturing Automation Lead to help develop and implement automation solutions within our manufacturing environment.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys building, testing, troubleshooting, and improving equipment and processes directly on the production floor. The ideal candidate has experience with robotics, automation, mechatronics, CNC systems, or advanced manufacturing and is excited to bring automation concepts into real production use.

This role will support initiatives related to robotic sanding, material handling, tooling, trimming, 5-axis machining, large-format printing, and future manufacturing automation opportunities.

What You’ll Do

·  Lead automation and robotics projects from concept through implementation

·  Identify repetitive manufacturing opportunities that could benefit from automation

·  Evaluate and integrate robotic systems, tooling, sensors, controls, fixtures, and safety components

·  Develop and optimize automated manufacturing processes

·  Program and troubleshoot robotic motion systems and automation equipment

·  Design, build, and test prototype equipment and production cells

·  Support robotic sanding and surface finishing applications

·  Assist with large-format 3D printing and 5-axis manufacturing initiatives

·  Integrate PLCs, controls, vacuum systems, sensors, and machine interfaces

·  Create standard work instructions, setup documentation, and maintenance procedures

·  Collaborate with engineering and production teams to move concepts into scalable manufacturing solutions

·  Promote safe operation and continuous improvement across automation initiatives

What We’re Looking For

·  3+ years of experience in robotics, automation, mechatronics, machine building, CNC, manufacturing engineering, industrial maintenance, or a related field

·  Experience programming, troubleshooting, or operating industrial automation equipment

·  Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on equipment experience

·  Ability to interpret technical drawings and work from CAD models

·  Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment

·  Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

·  Experience with industrial robots or cobots (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, UR, Yaskawa, Doosan, or similar)

·  Experience with robotic sanding, trimming, routing, grinding, or material removal processes

·  Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, robot I/O, controls, and safety systems

·  CAD/CAM experience (SolidWorks, Fusion, Mastercam, PowerMill, RoboDK, etc.)

·  Experience with composites, fiberglass, boatbuilding, CNC milling, or large-format additive manufacturing

·  Exposure to machine vision, ROS, Python, or automated path generation

What We Offer

·  Competitive compensation

·  Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company-paid life & disability, and more

·  401(k) with company match

·  Paid time off and holidays

·  Career growth opportunities

·  Opportunity to build and influence automation capability from the ground up

·  Collaborative, fast-moving manufacturing environment

Please note: Employment with Freeman Boatworks is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.