Senior Machine Vision and Robotics Engineer

The Senior Machine Vision and Robotics Engineer is a key contributor in developing and deploying advanced automation technologies across TSM’s manufacturing platform. This role combines deep expertise in machine vision, robotics, and controls integration to lead automation initiatives that enhance product quality, process efficiency, and operator safety. As part of TSM’s Automation & Advanced Manufacturing team, you will collaborate with cross-functional engineering, quality, and operations teams to deliver robust, scalable systems that support our diverse customer base across the transportation and commercial goods industries.

Demonstrating GRIT by Growing expertise, respecting collaboration, innovating boldly, and delivering with tenacity, the engineer will uphold and promote TSM’s digital transformation and continuous improvement values in alignment with IATF 16949 and VDA 6.3 standards.

HSM Transportation is an ISO Certified exclusive complete line manufacturer of C.E. White School Bus Seats, portable child restraints, seat covers, and foam aftermarket parts. We are also a premier commercial seat manufacturer specializing in luxury full-size, luxury shuttle, commuter transit, commuter van, salon, foldaway and sofa seating.

HSM Transportation Solutions is a business unit of HSM, headquartered in Hickory, NC since 1944. Our commitment to excellence goes far beyond our products and processes; it is centered on the people who make it all possible. If you're interested in learning more about our company culture, as well as the benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website or social media pages.

Vision & Robotics System Engineering

• Develop and deploy integrated vision-guided robotics systems for inspection, material handling, machine tending, and complex assembly tasks.
• Design and implement machine vision algorithms using MVTec HALCON, Cognex VisionPro, Photoneo, and similar platforms.
• Program and commission industrial robots (FANUC, Yaskawa, ABB, UR) to interact with sensors, PLCs, and vision systems.
• Select and validate appropriate optics, lighting, and hardware for 2D and 3D vision applications in manufacturing environments.

Automation Architecture & Integration

• Define system architecture for automation cells including software interfaces (GigE Vision, GenICam, custom SDKs).
• Integrate automation systems with PLCs (Siemens, Rockwell), HMIs, and SCADA platforms using industrial protocols such as OPC UA, EtherNet/IP, and Profinet.
• Interpret mechanical and electrical schematics to support seamless cross-disciplinary implementation.

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead technical execution of vision and robotics projects from concept through commissioning, calibration, and validation.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to identify automation opportunities and define project requirements.
• Manage vendor relationships, integration schedules, and system testing to ensure timely and quality rollouts.

Innovation & Technology Advancement

• Research and recommend new technologies related to 3D vision, digital twins, artificial intelligence, and virtual commissioning tools such as RoboDK, Emulate3D, or Visual Components.
• Guide the development of simulation models to optimize robotic workcells prior to deployment.
• Champion continuous improvement of system design and operational support procedures.

Training, Standards & Support

• Provide mentorship and training to junior engineers and technicians involved in vision and robotics development.
• Establish documentation standards, programming templates, and troubleshooting guides.
• Support system uptime by responding to commissioning, tuning, and integration challenges across TSM sites.

Educational & Experience Background

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in machine vision and industrial robotics integration in a manufacturing environment.
• Prior work in automotive, heavy vehicle, or transportation-focused industries strongly preferred.
• Prefer coding skills in Python, Structured Text (IEC 61131-3), C/C++, or JavaScript—especially for vision processing, automation scripting, or SCADA/HMI integration.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency with MVTec HALCON (HDevelop) and Cognex vision tools.
• Robot programming experience with FANUC and Yaskawa robots; ABB and UR experience is a plus.
• Deep understanding of machine vision hardware selection, algorithm design, and real-time deployment.
• Strong command of industrial automation controls, ladder logic, structured text, and fieldbus communication.

System & Process Integration

• Proven experience aligning vision and robotics systems with IATF 16949 and VDA 6.3 requirements.
• Hands-on experience integrating multi-system automation architectures in discrete manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with CAD modeling, mechanical integration, and layout design for automation equipment.

Leadership & Communication

• Demonstrated leadership in technical teams or mentorship roles.
• Effective communicator able to translate complex automation concepts into actionable tasks across departments.
• Adept at working across engineering, quality, and production teams to ensure successful implementation.

Preferred Skills & Certifications

• Experience with 3D vision (Photoneo PhoXi, Zivid, Keyence 3D).
• Exposure to digital twin environments and simulation-based validation.
• Familiarity with machine learning approaches in vision inspection.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or similar process improvement training.
• Ignition, Rockwell, or Siemens controls certifications preferred.

Travel Requirements

• Up to 25% travel required for system commissioning, vendor collaboration, and cross-site support.

As a Senior Machine Vision & Robotics Engineer at HSM, you’ll enjoy: 

• 401k Contribution Match up to 4% (100% Vested from Day 1), 9 paid holidays, 3 weeks of vacation (Eligible after 60 days), Affordable Total Package Benefits offerings for you and your family, On-Site No-Cost Medical Clinics for you and Covered Dependents, Teladoc 24/7 ($0 copay), Global Healthcare and Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Assistance.  

At HSM Solutions our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, innovation, and celebrating our successes together as a team. We provide our employees with the tools and resources they need to achieve their goals and to make a meaningful impact on our customers, our company, and our communities. If you're looking for a place that's not just a job, but a spot where you can grow and make a real impact, then HSM Solutions is the place for you. 

If you would like to apply for a position, please visit our career site at www.hsmsolutions.com/careers for a prompt response from our recruitment team. If you have any questions or would like to follow up on your application, please don't hesitate to contact us at jobs@hsmsolutions.com.

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HSM prohibits discrimination based on any protected status, workplace harassment/bullying, and retaliation for filing a complaint or providing information related to a complaint. HSM provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to an individual's protected status: race/ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, pregnancy/childbirth or related conditions, religion, creed, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status.