Machine Vision System Programmer

At Steven Douglas Corp (SDC) we design and build custom, automated machines that are used in a wide variety of applications and industries. Our fast-paces, high-tech environment challenges our team to develop unique solutions, pushing automation boundaries and delivering innovative, robust machines. 

A Machine Vision System Programmer at SDC has strong expertise in Keyence and Cognex platforms to lead vision development efforts for advanced automation projects. 

Why Join SDC?

• Cutting Edge Technology: Develop and deploy advanced machine vision solutions used for inspection, measurement, alignment, and quality verification.  
• Collaborative Environment: Work closely with our sales, project management, and engineering teams to ensure seamless design integration and execution. 
• Family-Owned Culture: Experience a supportive and agile environment that values technical excellence and personal growth.

What You’ll Do:

Vision System Development

• Design, develop, and implement industrial machine vision solutions for automated inspection, measurement, and part verification.
• Program and configure Keyence (IV, XG, CV, VS, LumiTrax, etc.) and Cognex (In-Sight, VisionPro, Designer) systems.
• Create robust lighting, lensing, and image acquisition strategies for varying part types and environments.
• Develop advanced tools such as pattern recognition, OCR/OCV, blob analysis, edge detection, and 2D/3D measurement.
• Integrate vision systems with PLCs, robots, motion controllers, and HMIs.

Automation Integration

• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to define system requirements.
• Develop communication interfaces using Ethernet/IP, Profinet, TCP/IP, serial, and vendor-specific protocols.
• Support robotic guidance applications, including calibration, coordinate transformation, and high-precision alignment.

Testing, Debug, & Support

• Perform in-house testing, system calibration, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Support machine assembly, debug, FAT/SAT activities, and customer training.
• Diagnose image reliability issues caused by lighting, reflectivity, vibration, or mechanical variation.

Project Execution

• Document system settings, vision logic, best practices, and work instructions.
• Manage assigned tasks to stay on schedule and support successful project delivery.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation Technology, or related discipline.
• 5 years of experience in industrial automation, with 5 years focused on machine vision systems.
• Proven, hands-on expertise with: 
• Keyence vision platforms (IV, XG, CV, VS, or similar)
• Cognex vision platforms (In-Sight, VisionPro, Spreadsheet or Designer environments)
• Vision lighting, lensing, cameras, optics, and image acquisition fundamentals
• Experience integrating vision systems into PLC-driven automation.

Preferred Skills

• PLC/HMI familiarity (Allen-Bradley preferred)
• Robotic programming (Fanuc, Epson, ABB, Universal Robots)
• Motion control and servo applications
• Experience using AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or related tools
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to travel up to 10%

What We Offer:

SDC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• 100% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance with supplemental insurance options.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and 10 company-paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan with a 4% employer match per pay period.
• Company-sponsored Health Savings Account (HSA) and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

You’ll have the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting and challenging projects across industries, keeping your work engaging and impactful. Our company culture is built on integrity, respect, continuous learning, innovation, and teamwork, creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. www.sdcautomation.com

Steven Douglas Corp is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative workplace.

Compensation details: 80000-120000 Yearly Salary