Robot Specialist; End Plant

Brief Description

Our Waco, TX facility manufactures aluminum ends/lids for beverage cans commonly used for soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas and non‑carbonated beverages. Using state‑of‑the‑art end‑making technology, this high‑speed environment provides rewarding manufacturing opportunities.

We are searching for a highly skilled Robot Specialist to oversee the programming, maintenance, and optimization of our robotic automation systems. This role focuses on the robotic cells at the end of our Shell and Conversion Presses, including automated palletizers, bagging systems, and high‑speed pick‑and‑place arms. The Robot Specialist ensures these systems operate at peak efficiency, minimizing micro‑stops and ensuring seamless integration between production machinery and the automated warehouse.

• Develop and refine robot paths and logic (primarily Fanuc or ABB) to optimize cycle times and prevent collisions.
• Calibrate and troubleshoot 2D/3D vision systems integrated with robots for quality inspection and part orientation.
• Design, maintain, and repair vacuum grippers, mechanical clamps, and magnetic tools used for handling aluminum ends and pallets.

• Execute complex preventative maintenance on robotic controllers, mechanical arms, and cabling to prevent unexpected downtime.
• Act as the Tier 3 technical responder for “Robot Fault” events, utilizing teach pendants and laptop diagnostics to resolve servo errors, communication losses, and limit switch issues.
• Manage the replacement of encoders, motors, gearboxes, and “dress packs” (internal cabling).

• Ensure robust communication between robotic controllers and Allen‑Bradley PLCs via Ether Net/IP or Device Net.
• Maintain and audit robotic safety perimeters, including light curtains, area scanners, and “Safety‑Rated Soft Axis” limits to ensure a zero‑accident environment.
• Utilize Industry 4.0 data collection tools to track robot uptime, cycle counts, and fault trends to drive continuous improvement projects.

• Train production operators and technicians on basic “TP” teach pendant operation, recovery procedures, and safety protocols.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for robotic cell startups, shutdowns, and emergency recovery.

• High school diploma or equivalent;
  Technical degree or journeyman status in a related field (e.g., Industrial Automation, Controls Programming) is preferred.
• Experience with reading and interpreting electrical schematics, P&, and control loop documentation.
• Proficiency in Fanuc “TP” programming or equivalent; experience with Allen‑Bradley Studio 5000 is highly preferred.
• Fanuc iRVision or similar robotic vision certification is a significant plus.

• 3+ years of experience working directly with industrial robots in a high‑speed automated machinery environment, preferably in metal forming, packaging, or can manufacturing industry.

• Understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Preference for data collection and analysis experience in a high‑volume automated manufacturing environment.
• Understanding of engineering, scientific and other technical information.
• Experience with new product introduction, reworking design changes and upgrades through to production.
• Ability to understand and interpret technical manuals, 2‑D drawings, P&IDs, fluid and electrical schematics and other engineering documentation.
• Proven understanding of BOMs, manufacturability, process design, process validation, assembly methods, design reviews, and cost reduction methodologies.
• Innovative leadership with the ability to identify opportunities and influence organizations to gain support and overcome resistance with data and persuasion.
• Ability to develop manufacturing documentation.
• Capability to identify critical process parameters and apply statistics to process measurement and control.
• Development and qualification of tooling/equipment skills.
• Strong organizational skills and proven ability to maintain accurate, detailed records that will be…