Robotics Automation Technician

Role Overview

Formic is hiring a full-time Robotics Automation Technician. This is a full-time role in Chicago or Bolingbrook, IL. The role focuses on supporting the build, configuration, validation, and installation of Formic’s robotic automation systems.

Formic is reshaping American manufacturing by making automation accessible to every factory. We deliver automation through a Robotics‑as‑a‑Service model that combines industrial robotics, proprietary software, and full‑service support. Backed by leading investors, Formic is scaling rapidly and building the foundation for a new era of high‑performance, Made in America production.

The Automation Engineering Team delivers robotics‑driven automation deployments across a wide range of customer applications. The team partners cross‑functionally to translate customer requirements into deployed systems, ensuring solutions are integrated, commissioned, and validated to perform reliably in real manufacturing environments.

As a Robotics Automation Technician, you will support the build, configuration, validation, and installation of Formic’s robotic automation systems at our Woodridge facility and on customer sites. This role is designed for someone early in their automation career who is mechanically strong, eager to learn, and motivated to grow into more advanced technical responsibilities.

• Assemble, configure, and test automated systems in the shop, including material handling, palletizing, case erecting, case packing, and related end‑of‑line automation.
• Support internal system integration activities including mechanical setup, electrical setup, system quality checks, documentation, testing, troubleshooting, FAT, and final system pack‑out.
• Support installation and on‑site commissioning activities at customer sites in collaboration with Deployment Engineers and Project Managers.
• Assist with mechanical installation, power‑up, testing, troubleshooting, performance validation, and final documentation.
• Build skills required to take on more advanced commissioning responsibilities over time.
• Support refurbishment and reconditioning of returned systems as needed.
• Validate system performance and assist with troubleshooting during testing, integration, and deployment activities.
• Travel to customer sites as needed for multi‑day installation and support deployments.
• Follow Formic’s standardized processes, tools, SOPs, and all applicable safety requirements.

• 0–2 years of experience in robotics, automation, manufacturing, mechanical assembly, field service, or related hands‑on technical work.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools.
• Willingness to learn and grow into more advanced technical responsibilities.
• Strong ability to follow documented procedures and ask for help when needed.
• Comfort working in physically active, hands‑on environments.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow documented processes and safety standards.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel up to 50–60% as needed.
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the greater Chicago area and able to work onsite five days per week in Woodridge, IL.
• Comfortable working in industrial manufacturing environments, including standing for extended periods, climbing ladders, and working around operating machinery.

• Exposure to industrial automation equipment or 6‑axis robots.
• Basic electrical experience including sensors, wiring, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with end‑of‑line packaging systems such as palletizers, case packers, case erectors, or conveyors.
• Experience in a system integrator, OEM, or manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with basic measurement tools such as calipers, multimeters, and torque tools.
• Exposure to industrial robots such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa/Motoman, or Universal Robots.

• Equity in Formic:
  Participate in our stock option program and share in the success of a fast‑growing start‑up backed by leading global investors.
• Competitive & Uncapped Commission Structure:
  Designed to reward performance…