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About the Role:
As a Forward Deployed Engineer at Machina Labs, you are our “boots on the ground”,the dedicated technical lead embedded at customer sites to ensure ourRoboCraftsmansystems perform as designed in real-world manufacturing environments. Embedded on-site, you will support the deployment and operation ofRoboCraftsmancells, troubleshoot hardware and software issues,validatesystem performance, and drive continuous improvements based on real-world production feedback.
You will serve as the primary interface between the customer and Machina’s engineering teams, translating real-world production challenges into actionable feedback for our Product, Hardware, Software, and Process Engineering groups, and bringing solutions back to the factory floor.
The role begins with immersive training at Machina Labs HQ, where you will master ourRoboFormingprocess, theRoboCraftsmanplatform, and our internal software stack alongside our Engineering and Production teams. Following training, you will transition to a long-term on-site assignment supporting a customer deployment in Ohio.
Lead Technical Execution at Customer Sites
Analyze andmodifyCAD models to ensure compatibility with theRoboFormingprocess.
Use Machina’s software stack to convert CAD models into toolpaths for execution onRoboCraftsmancells.
Support customer production programs by analyzingRoboFormingprocess data and 3D scan results to assess part quality andidentifyopportunities for process improvement.
Design and execute structured experiments (DOE) to optimize forming parameters and toolpath strategies for customer applications.
Work autonomously, make informed decisions with incomplete data, and rapidly iterate based on results.
Document processes, experiments, results, and analyses to drive continuous improvement across Machina’s engineering teams.
Maintain Cell Performance and Production Readiness
Oversee day-to-day operation of customer-siteRoboCraftsmancells, ensuring reliable performance and production output.
Support customer operators and technicians byprovidingtechnical guidance, troubleshooting, and training.
Develop and release manufacturing procedures and work instructions tailored to customer workflows.
Test andvalidatehardware and software upgrades prior to production deployment.
Maintain detailed records of process changes, validation activities, and system improvements.
Serve as the Interface Between Customer and Machina
Act as the primary technical point of contact between the customer and Machina engineering teams.
Surface issues, coordinate investigations, and drive resolution across Product, Software, Manufacturing Engineering, and Robotic Process Engineering teams.
Partner closely with internal teams to incorporate customer learnings into product and process roadmaps.
Contribute to technical discussions with customer stakeholders to ensure projectsremainaligned, successful, and on schedule.
B.S. in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering field.
5+ years of experience in manufacturing, robotics, automation, prototyping, or related engineering environments.
Proficiencywith CAD software and familiarity with CAM workflows, toolpath generation, CNC programming, robotics, or automated manufacturing systems.
Experience designing, testing, and implementing manufacturing process improvements, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; experience using data to drive technical decisions.
Comfortable working in ambiguous environments, making rapid decisions, and adapting to changing customer and production needs.
Hands-on experience in manufacturing, machine shop, prototyping, or production environments.
Prior experience in a customer-facing technical role (forward-deployed, field engineering, applications engineering, or similar).
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across interdisciplinary teams.
Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Experience working with industrial robotics platforms (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, etc.).
Experience with metrology, 3D scanning, or inspection systems.
Knowledge of GD&T and precision measurement principles.
Additional Requirements
Willingness to complete several months of training at Machina Labs HQinCaliforniabeforetransitioning to a long-term customer-site deployment.
Ability to travel up to 10%.
*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this role. Duties and responsibilities may change based on business needs.
Machina Labs is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with state and federal law.
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