Automation & Robotics Engineer

Horizon Controls Group is seeking an experienced Automation& Robotics Engineer to support the development of next-generation robotic and automated material-handling solutions within its manufacturing operations in Indiana.

The successful candidate will provide specialist engineering expertise in collaborative robotics, automated packing solutions and Autonomous Guided Vehicle (AGV) systems. The initial assignment will focus on developing the scope and preliminary design for the next packing collaborative robot (cobot), followed by an independent technical peer reviewof the site's existing AGV transformation project scope and implementation plan.

This role requires a combination of hands-on robotics and automation engineering knowledge, solution design capability,vendor evaluation experience and the ability to assess complex automation projects from both a technical and operational perspective.

The ideal candidate will have experience implementing or designing robotics solutions in pharmaceutical, life sciences, medical device, food or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop the technical scope and initial design concept for the next automated packing cobot.
• Assessthe existing packing process and identify opportunities for collaborative robotic automation.
• Definethe appropriate type and configuration of cobot for the intended packing application.
• Evaluate the required level of automation, including the extent of integration with existing production equipment, packaging lines and manufacturing systems.
• Assess potential cobot configurations, including payload capacity, reach, speed,accuracy, safety requirements and end-of-arm tooling.
• Identify suitable robotic technologies and potential equipment suppliers.
• Research and evaluate vendor options based on technical capability, suitability,integration complexity, cost and long-term support.
• Consider operator interaction, ergonomics, accessibility and safe human-robot collaboration.
• Developan initial design proposal outlining the recommended solution, technical requirements, integration considerations and potential suppliers.
• Identify key technical risks, assumptions, constraints and dependencies associated with the proposed solution.
• Provide recommendations to support the next phase of engineering development and project execution.

Key Deliverable 1 – Packing Cobot Scope and Initial Design

Spend approximately one week developing thescope and initial design for the next packing cobot.

The deliverable should include:

• Recommended style and type of collaborative robot.
• Proposed level of automation and integration with existing manufacturing or packaging equipment.
• Initial technical design and solution concept.
• Potentialcobot manufacturers and vendor options.
• Preliminary assessment of technical feasibility and integration requirements.
• Key considerations relating to safety, operational performance and scalability.
• Recommendation sand next steps for detailed design and implementation.

2. AGVTransformation Project – Technical Peer Review

• Conductan independent technical peer review of the site's current AGVtransformation project scope and implementation plan.
• Reviewthe proposed AGV solution architecture, technical approach and overall project strategy.
• Assess whether the proposed solution is appropriate for the site'smaterial-handling and manufacturing requirements.
• Evaluate the planned AGV functionality, routes, traffic management and interaction with people and other equipment.
• Review integration considerations with existing manufacturing systems, warehouse operations and material-handling processes.
• Assessthe proposed implementation approach, project phases, dependencies and timelines.
• Identify potential technical gaps, risks, constraints and areas requiring…