Robotics Engineering Manager - Material Handling Systems/Manufacturing

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $2B in revenue, and employ approximately 11,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

What We Offer:

• A hybrid in office schedule for qualifying employees
• Flexible time off policy
• 401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
• Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
• Opportunities for career advancement with an industry leading company!

We are seeking a Robotics Engineering Manager to join our Operations Technology team at our corporate office in Duncan, SC. After gaining knowledge of our environment, there is the opportunity for this position to work under our Hybrid schedule working both in the office and remotely.There will be times that travel or periodic 100% onsite work may be required.

The Robotics Engineering Manager Material Handling Systems leads the design, integration, deployment, and optimization of robotic and automated solutions in material handling environments. This management role is responsible for overseeing a team of 2-3 robotics engineers, ensuring project delivery, technical excellence, and continuous improvement in throughput, accuracy, safety, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Management

• Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of 2-3 robotics engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Provide technical guidance, set priorities, and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Allocate resources and manage workloads to ensure timely project completion.
• Facilitate professional development and training for team members.
• System Design and Integration
• Oversee the design of robotic solutions for material handling applications such as palletizing, picking, sorting, and autonomous transport.
• Ensure integration of industrial robots, AMRs, conveyors, sensors, vision systems, and safety components.

Programming and Controls

• Guide the team in programming and configuring robotic systems using OEM platforms (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa).
• Oversee development and troubleshooting of PLC and motion control logic.
• Deployment and Commissioning
• Lead on-site installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing of robotic material handling systems.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and internal engineering guidelines.

Continuous Improvement and Optimization

• Analyze system performance data and drive initiatives for reliability, uptime, scalability, and maintainability.
• Support retrofits and upgrades to existing systems.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, IT, and safety teams to align solutions with business needs.
• Provide technical documentation and training to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Robotics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• Minimum 8+ years of experience in robotics, automation, or material handling system implementation, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role overseeing engineering teams.
• Hands-on experience with industrial or mobile robotics in material handling/logistics.
• Strong understanding of automation systems, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, and safety systems.
• Experience with robotic simulation tools and offline programming preferred.
• Familiarity with warehouse automation concepts such as WMS/MES interfaces.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AMRs, AGVs, or fleet management systems.
• Knowledge of industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA).
• Exposure to lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and support projects across different stages.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office-based engineering work and on-site support in warehouse or manufacturing environments.
• May require occasional off-hours or weekend support during system go-lives or critical upgrades.