Senior R&D Engineer / Senior Automation Engineer

Job Description:

Job Summary

A senior-level professional responsible for leading the design, development, testing, and optimization of advanced automation and robotic systems across mechanical and digital environments. This role involves managing end-to-end automation projects, guiding junior engineers/technicians, and ensuring efficient execution to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance product quality. The senior engineer will also drive innovation, lead R&D initiatives, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Leadership

• Lead the study, analysis, and automation of complex manufacturing processes.

• Implement advanced automation solutions to enhance quality, consistency, and productivity.

• Oversee automation project timelines, deliverables, and cross-functional coordination.

Robotic Automation

• Lead installation, configuration, and optimization of collaborative robots (cobots).

• Supervise team members during robot calibration, testing, and integration.

• Ensure safe and compliant hardware setup including PLCs, SMPS, relays, safety systems, sensors & PCBs.

Team Management & Mentorship

• Lead a team of automation engineers, technicians, and programmers.

• Provide technical guidance, task delegation, performance feedback, and project support.

• Conduct internal training sessions on programming, robotics, and automation tools.

Software & System Integration

• Oversee control software configuration for robots and automation systems.

• Troubleshoot and resolve advanced communication, interface, and system integration issues.

Design & Development

• Review and guide hardware/automation designs created on AutoCAD, CATIA, Rhino, etc.

• Approve engineering drawings, logic design, and implementation plans.

Programming

• Develop and review complex programs in C++ and Java.

• Approve robotic programs (KUKA, Universal Robots, Dobot, Autonomous robotic systems).

• Ensure optimized and scalable coding practices within the team.

Documentation & Reporting

• Ensure proper documentation of all programs and store them in the central server.

• Review SOPs, update technical documents, and approve machine development records.

• Monitor and validate daily/weekly/monthly reports prepared by the team.

R&D & Innovation

• Lead R&D initiatives, evaluate emerging technologies, and propose innovative solutions.

• Drive continuous improvement projects and cost-saving automation strategies.

Qualifications

• B.E./B.Tech in Automation, Robotics, Mechatronics, Electronics, or equivalent.

• Preferred: 5–12 years of experience in Automation / Robotics with team-handling experience.

Technical Skills

• C++, Java

• PLC & SCADA Programming

• Robotics Programming (KUKA, UR, Dobot, Autonomous)

• Python

• Ubuntu

• Ladder Logic

• Raspberry Pi

• Vision Systems, OpenCV

• SLAM Navigation, LiDAR

• Web-based Software Development

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and team-management capabilities.

• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.

• Ability to work under strict deadlines with multitasking ability.

• Strong communication and cross-functional coordination.