What are the responsibilities and job description for the Robotics Programming Manager position at NOVAE LLC?
Novae is one of North America’s leading trailer manufacturers, proudly producing 13 distinct brands of trailers and accessories. We believe our strength comes from a diverse, talented team committed to excellence, integrity, and meaningful collaboration. At Novae, you’ll join a mission-driven organization where your ideas matter, your skills are recognized, and your career growth is supported. Here, we don’t just build trailers—we build careers, community connections, and opportunities to make a real impact.
Job Summary: Responsible for the design, development, deployment, and continuous improvement of robotic and automated systems across Novae’s manufacturing operations. This role serves as the technical and organizational bridge between engineering and production – leading a team of Robotics Programmers and Robotic Process Technicians while driving automation strategy.
Essential Functions:
- Directly supervise and provide day-to-day direction to Robotics Programmers and Robotic Process Technicians, ensuring alignment with production priorities and Novae’s mission and values. Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular check-ins and formal performance evaluations, and support the professional development of direct reports. Coordinate workload and project assignments across the team to optimize coverage, skill utilization, and project execution.
- Lead the identification, evaluation, and prioritization of automation opportunities across weld, blast, and paint operations in partnership with operations and continuous improvement teams. Design and oversee the implementation of robotic systems and automated processes from concept through production deployment, including programming, installation, validation, and documentation. Ensure all automated systems are integrated with Novae’s ERP database and product configuration systems and that documentation is accurate and current.
- Direct the use of simulation software (e.g., Fanuc Roboguide, Lincoln Electric WeldPro) to test and validate programming and operations sequencing prior to deployment. Analyze and interpret engineering blueprints and 3D models to inform automation design and robotic path development.
- Serve as the escalation point for complex technical issues involving robotic systems, programmable controllers, electrical systems, sensors, hydraulics, pneumatics, and end-of-arm tooling. Lead root cause analysis and resolution of system failures, alarms, and faults; work with the continuous improvement team to establish protocols and prevent recurrence. Oversee preventative and corrective maintenance programs for robotic and automated systems, ensuring reliability and minimizing unplanned downtime.
- Ensure that automated systems are implemented effectively, maintained reliably, and that the people who operate and support them are equipped to succeed.
- Develop and execute training programs for Robotic Process Technicians and production personnel on the safe and effective operation of automated systems. Teach diagnosis methods and troubleshooting approaches for resolving complex issues within automated systems, leveraging simulations and hands-on exercises. Create clear work order instructions and operational documentation that enables production teams to execute automated processes according to design intent.
- Stay abreast of innovations in automation and robotic programming. Partner with operations and continuous improvement teams to incorporate automation-driven process improvements into daily activities and long-range manufacturing planning. Provide ongoing educational opportunities and development for Robotics Programmers and Robotic Process Technicians.
- Assist in other areas and perform other duties, as needed. (This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this job.)
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent demonstrated experience in automation and robotics engineering within a manufacturing environment.
- Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in robotics programming and automation systems in an advanced manufacturing setting; minimum 2 years of supervisory or lead experience directing technical staff.
- Demonstrated expertise in robotic programming for weld, blast, and/or paint operations; experience with Fanuc Roboguide and Lincoln Electric WeldPro strongly preferred.
- Working knowledge of programmable controllers, ladder logic, electrical circuit design, sensors, hydraulics, and pneumatics; experience with 2D/3D vision systems.
- Proficiency in 3D design and drawing (CAD); experience with Inventor preferred.
- Familiarity with ERP systems and product configuration platforms; ability to ensure automation integration with existing enterprise systems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and hold accountable a team of technical professionals in a manufacturing environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills – must be able to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary and multilevel groups.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach; meticulous organizational skills including attention to detail and multi-tasking capability.
Working Conditions:
- Primarily operates within a fast-paced manufacturing environment with regular time on the production floor and in an office setting.
- Routinely uses standard office equipment such as laptop computers, photocopiers, and smartphones.
- Travel, approximately 10% to 15%, to other Novae facilities or external training venues for team development and personal professional development.
- Responsibilities require willingness to work outside of typical office schedule.