At Alcon, we are driven by the meaningful work we do to help people see brilliantly. We innovate boldly, champion progress, and act with speed as the global leader in eye care. Here, you’ll be recognized for your commitment and contributions and see your career like never before. Together, we go above and beyond to make an impact in the lives of our patients and customers. We foster an inclusive culture and are looking for diverse, talented people to join Alcon.
The Automation / Robotic Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, configuration, and deployment of advanced robotic and humanoid robotic systems within a manufacturing environment. This role involves hands-on development of robotic applications, integration with MES/PLC/IoT platforms, ensuring system reliability, and ensuring compliance with global and local safety standards. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional engineering, manufacturing, quality, and IT teams to enable smart factory automation with high levels of performance, safety, and scalability
In this role, a typical day will include:
- Develop, configure, and optimize robotic applications (articulated robots, collaborative robots, and humanoid robot platforms).
- Create and maintain robot programs in vendor-specific languages (e.g., KUKA KRL, Fanuc TP, ABB RAPID, URScript) and humanoid robot SDKs (e.g., NVIDIA Isaac, Unitree, Boston Dynamics API, or similar).
- Develop interface logic for automated workflows, data exchange, and system monitoring with MES, PLC, SCADA, and IoT gateways using industrial protocols such as OPC UA, MQTT, Profinet, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, REST API, and fieldbus communication.
- Ensure robotic system designs comply with ISO and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066 for cobots, RIA, CE marking, machine guarding).
- Lead full lifecycle testing—from offline simulation to factory commissioning.
- Troubleshoot robotic motion issues, communication failures, PLC logic, and interface problems. Ensure compliance to Quality/Regulatory / ISO13485, cGMP/GDP, HSE, Finance and Alcon Corporate policies.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO ALCON:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field
- 3–8 years of direct hands-on experience developing robotic systems in a manufacturing or R&D environment.
- Experience with humanoid robotics or advanced AI-driven manipulation / autonomy is a significant advantage.
- Ability to translate user needs into intuitive digital interfaces.
- Comfortable working in fast paced, experimental environments.
- Clear communicator who collaborates effectively across disciplines
HOW YOU CAN THRIVE AT ALCON:
- Join a global leader with a rich history of innovation and excellence in eye care.
- Be part of a collaborative and supportive team culture that values diversity and inclusion.
- Enjoy a competitive compensation package and opportunities for career advancement.
- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients worldwide by contributing to cutting-edge advancements in eye health.
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