If you’re an engineering professional who enjoys solving real-world automation and robotics problems, this System Engineer opportunity at Symbotic in Porterville, California could be a strong fit. The role focuses on maintaining and troubleshooting highly automated warehouse systems, working with electro-mechanical equipment, robotics, conveyors, lifts, and related technologies. Symbotic lists the base salary at $71,000–$97,900 per year, along with benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and disability coverage.
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Symbotic |
| Role | System Engineer |
| Qualification | Engineering, Computer Science, Automation, or related background; relevant hands-on automation/electro-mechanical experience |
| Job Location | Porterville, California, USA |
| Salary | $71,000–$97,900 per year |
| Work Type | On-site |
| Job Type | Full-time |
| Job Level | Engineer / Mid-Level |
| Industry | Robotics, Warehouse Automation & Technology |
Job Description
The System Engineer is part of the Customer Operations organization which is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of Symbotic’s robotic material handling system. The Customer Operations organization drives operational excellence by engaging and partnering with our onsite customers to drive best-in-class quality, safety and system performance.
What you’ll do
- Monitor and maintain the health of automated systems including conveyors, lifts, robotic vehicles, motors, sensors, and PLC-controlled equipment.
- Perform advanced electrical, mechanical, and automation troubleshooting to resolve production-impacting issues.
- Diagnose failures across PLCs (Allen-Bradley), VFDs, AC/DC motors, servo motors, sensors, and control hardware.
- Support and execute preventive and corrective maintenance activities on automated equipment.
- Utilize system data, alarms, logs, and dashboards to identify fault conditions and recurring issues.
- Document maintenance activities, repairs, and findings using CMMS systems (e.g., Maximo) and internal tools.
- Act as a senior technical escalation point during system disruptions or downtime events.
- Partner with on-site maintenance, operations, and technical teams to restore and stabilize system performance.
- Provide technical guidance and on-the-job support to maintenance technicians and operators.
- Step in to support critical on-site technical functions as needed to maintain operational continuity.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA, LOTO, electrical safety, and Symbotic safety standards.
What you’ll need
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
- Minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience with PLCs, preferably Allen-Bradley, focused on diagnostics and troubleshooting (not heavy programming).
- Minimum of 1 year of experience with VFDs, including diagnosing speed, torque, and drive-related issues.
- Minimum of 1 year of experience working with AC and DC motors.
- Hands-on experience with automated systems such as conveyor systems, conveyor belts, vertical lifts, and motor-driven equipment.
- Experience supporting autonomous or semi-autonomous systems, including conveyors, lifts, AS/RS, robotics, servo motors, or 480V systems.
- Working knowledge of SQL, Python, and Linux for diagnostics, log review, and system interaction.
- Strong hands-on experience assembling, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting robotics and electro-mechanical systems.
- Prior experience in maintenance engineering, automation maintenance, or lead maintenance technician roles preferred.
Our Environment
- Work is performed in an active industrial environment with high levels of automation.
- Ability to work at heights of up to 45 feet and within confined spaces.
- Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
- Exposure to varying temperatures and production conditions.
- Must comply with all PPE, LOTO, fall protection, and electrical safety requirements.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including off-shifts, as needed to support system uptime and recovery.
- Valid driver’s license required.
Selection Process
- Online Application – Submit your application through Symbotic’s careers portal.
- Resume Screening – The recruiting team reviews your qualifications and relevant experience.
- Recruiter Interview – An initial discussion covering your background, skills, and interest in Symbotic.
- Technical Interview – Assessment of your troubleshooting, automation, robotics, and electro-mechanical knowledge.
- Hiring Manager Interview – Discussion of your ability to work in a live industrial environment and handle production-impacting issues.
- Final Assessment / Interview – Evaluation of technical and behavioral fit.
- Offer & Background Process – Selected candidates proceed through the company’s hiring and onboarding requirements.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Symbotic Careers page.
- Search for “System Engineer”.
- Select the Porterville, CA position.
- Review the job requirements and compensation details.
- Click “Apply Now.”
- Create or sign in to your candidate profile.
- Upload your updated resume and provide the requested information.
- Submit your application and monitor your application status.