Robotics Controls Engineer - Job Opportunity at Applied Robotics

Silverwater, Australia
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: August 19, 2025
On-site
AUD 150,000 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive salary packaging options providing tax-effective compensation structuring to maximize take-home pay
Novated leasing arrangements enabling cost-effective vehicle acquisition with pre-tax benefits
Mental health leave allocation demonstrating progressive workplace wellness support beyond standard entitlements
Half-day Friday policy supporting work-life balance and employee wellbeing
Overtime compensation ensuring fair remuneration for additional hours worked

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and optimization of sophisticated control algorithms for custom robotic automation systems, directly impacting manufacturing efficiency and competitive advantage
Architect and implement real-time control systems that ensure precision manufacturing operations, contributing to client operational excellence and cost reduction
Drive cross-functional collaboration with mechanical design, control engineering, and production teams to deliver integrated automation solutions that transform manufacturing capabilities
Conduct advanced simulations and performance testing to validate system designs and meet critical cycle time commitments, ensuring project success and client satisfaction
Provide expert troubleshooting and system optimization to maintain operational reliability and minimize costly production downtime
Research and evaluate emerging robotics technologies across multiple vendor platforms to identify innovation opportunities and maintain technological leadership
Create comprehensive technical documentation and specifications that support knowledge transfer and system maintenance

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field

Experience

3+ years experience with programming Industrial robots is essential

Required Skills

programming Industrial robots experience with programming ABB robots is essential robotic hardware platforms PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens, Omron etc) sensors, and actuators control theory, including PID control, state-space control, and adaptive control problem-solving skills ability to troubleshoot complex control system issues communication and collaboration skills industrial automation machine vision motion planning
Advertisement
Ad Space

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The Australian manufacturing sector is experiencing significant automation transformation driven by Industry 4.0 initiatives and competitive pressure from global markets. Companies are increasingly investing in robotic automation to address labor shortages, improve quality consistency, and reduce operational costs. This trend is particularly pronounced in sectors like food and beverage, steel production, and logistics where Applied Robotics operates. Advanced robotics integration is becoming critical for maintaining manufacturing competitiveness, with companies seeking engineers who can work across multiple robot platforms and integrate complex automation systems. The emphasis on bespoke solutions rather than off-the-shelf systems reflects the growing sophistication of manufacturing requirements. Collaborative robotics and AI-enhanced control systems are emerging as key differentiators, with companies seeking engineers who can bridge traditional industrial automation with modern adaptive control technologies.

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary of up to AUD 150,000 represents competitive compensation for the Australian robotics engineering market, particularly considering Applied Robotics' established market position and the specialized nature of bespoke automation systems. This figure aligns well with mid-level robotics engineers in Sydney's industrial corridor and reflects the premium for ABB platform expertise.

Role Significance

Typical team structure would involve 8-12 engineers across disciplines, with this role serving as a technical specialist within a matrix organization collaborating with mechanical engineers, project managers, and production teams on concurrent automation projects.
This mid-level position carries significant technical responsibility and requires independent decision-making on complex automation projects. The role involves direct client impact through bespoke system development and requires expertise that directly influences project success and company reputation.

Key Projects

Development of custom robotic automation cells for major Australian manufacturers in food processing, steel handling, and logistics Integration of vision-guided robotics systems for quality inspection and material handling applications Implementation of collaborative robot solutions in mixed human-robot manufacturing environments Retrofit and modernization of existing automation systems with advanced control capabilities

Success Factors

Deep technical expertise in industrial robot programming across multiple platforms, particularly ABB systems, combined with strong understanding of control theory and real-time system implementation Exceptional problem-solving capabilities and systematic troubleshooting approach, essential for resolving complex issues in bespoke automation systems operating in demanding industrial environments Strong collaborative skills and ability to translate technical requirements across multidisciplinary teams, crucial for successful integration of mechanical, electrical, and software components Continuous learning mindset and adaptability to emerging robotics technologies, necessary for maintaining competitive advantage in rapidly evolving automation landscape

Market Demand

High demand driven by Australia's manufacturing renaissance and critical skills shortage in robotics engineering, particularly for professionals with multi-platform industrial robot programming experience

Important Skills

Critical Skills

ABB robot programming expertise is absolutely essential as it represents the primary platform for the company's automation solutions. This specialized knowledge directly impacts project delivery capability and system performance optimization. Multi-platform PLC programming across Rockwell, Siemens, and Omron systems is crucial for integration flexibility and client requirement accommodation. This versatility enables the engineer to work across diverse industrial environments and legacy system integrations. Advanced control theory understanding including PID, state-space, and adaptive control is fundamental for developing the sophisticated control algorithms required in bespoke automation systems where standard solutions are insufficient.

Beneficial Skills

Machine vision integration capabilities are increasingly valuable as quality inspection and adaptive robotics become standard requirements in modern manufacturing automation Motion planning expertise becomes critical for complex multi-robot systems and collision avoidance in sophisticated automation cells Industrial communication protocols and networking knowledge enables integration with modern Industry 4.0 systems and data analytics platforms

Unique Aspects

Direct collaboration with leading Australian universities and CSIRO provides access to cutting-edge research and emerging technologies not typically available in standard industrial automation roles
Exposure to diverse high-profile clients across multiple industries offers exceptional breadth of experience and networking opportunities within Australia's industrial sector
Focus on bespoke automation solutions rather than standard implementations provides opportunity to develop unique problem-solving skills and technical creativity
Four-decade company history combined with progressive benefits package demonstrates stability and forward-thinking management approach

Career Growth

Progression to senior technical roles typically occurs within 3-5 years with demonstrated project leadership success, while transition to management or business roles may take 5-7 years depending on business acumen development

Potential Next Roles

Senior Robotics Engineer or Lead Controls Engineer with responsibility for larger automation projects and team leadership Automation Systems Manager overseeing multiple engineering projects and client relationships Technical Sales Engineer or Solutions Architect combining technical expertise with business development Independent consulting or starting specialized automation company leveraging established industry network

Company Overview

Applied Robotics

Applied Robotics represents a well-established leader in Australian manufacturing automation with over four decades of operational history. The company has built strong credibility through long-term partnerships with major industrial clients including Arnotts, BlueScope Steel, Coca-Cola, and BHP, demonstrating capability in delivering complex automation solutions across diverse industries.

Applied Robotics holds a strong position in the Australian automation market, particularly in bespoke industrial solutions. Their university partnerships with UTS, Sydney University, and Wollongong University, plus collaboration with CSIRO, indicates commitment to innovation and access to cutting-edge research capabilities that differentiate them from competitors.
The Silverwater location positions employees at the heart of Sydney's industrial corridor with access to major manufacturing clients across NSW. This location provides exposure to diverse industrial applications and networking opportunities within Australia's manufacturing ecosystem.
The company culture emphasizes innovation, continuous learning, and long-term client relationships. The combination of established industrial partnerships and university collaborations suggests an environment that values both practical engineering excellence and research-driven innovation.
Advertisement
Ad Space
Apply Now

Data Sources & Analysis Information

Job Listings Data

The job listings displayed on this platform are sourced through BrightData's comprehensive API, ensuring up-to-date and accurate job market information.

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Our advanced AI system analyzes each job listing to provide valuable insights including:

  • Industry trends and market dynamics
  • Salary estimates and market demand analysis
  • Role significance and career growth potential
  • Critical success factors and key skills
  • Unique aspects of each position

This integration of reliable job data with AI-powered analysis helps provide you with comprehensive insights for making informed career decisions.