Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
Methods Machine Tools was established in 1958 with three employees and a handful of refurbished machines. Since then, the company has become one of the largest privately owned machine tool importers in North America. Methods designs and implements custom machining setups, including machine tool selection, automation integration, and turnkey automation cells. The corporate campus in Sudbury, Mass., comprises a showroom/technical center, which contains automation, applications, and a full range of cutting-edge machines. Methods has more than 300 employees, 7 technology centers, 1 high precision machining center, and has installed more than 45,000 machines throughout North America.
The following position is available at our Sudbury Office.
Job Summary: The Custom Systems Engineer is responsible for leading the design, assembly, programming, and testing of advanced automation and robotic systems for CNC machine tools. This role will integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components to deliver turnkey automation solutions. The engineer will also support customer installations, provide training, and assist in integrating factory and aftermarket options into machine systems.
Key Responsibilities:
· Perform mechanical and electrical assembly and installation of robots, automation systems, and peripheral equipment into CNC machine tools or as standalone automation cells.
· Evaluate and resolve issues related to form, fit, function, and communication between automation and machine tool systems.
· Conduct system testing, production simulation, and customer demonstrations to verify performance and reliability.
· Program and debug robot systems (Fanuc and other platforms) to meet application requirements.
· Provide onsite customer installation, setup, and training on automation and system operation.
· Deliver technical phone and remote support following system delivery.
· Travel to customer sites to support installations, turnkey runoffs, and troubleshooting as required.
· Collaborate with engineering, production, and service teams to ensure system quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
· Perform all other duties assigned to support departmental and company goals.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
· Technical School Certificate, Trade School Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Electromechanical Engineering (or related technical field).
· High School Diploma required.
· Prior experience in robotics, automation integration, or CNC machine tool systems is highly preferred.
· Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, with hands-on experience in automation or CNC machine tools.
· Ability to learn and apply Fanuc Robo Guide or similar robot programming software.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
· Solid understanding of math, geometry, and trigonometry for mechanical and programming applications.
· Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) across all levels of the organization and with customers.
· Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
· Proven ability to lead projects and work independently with minimal supervision.
· Effective team leadership skills — able to assign tasks, set deadlines, and ensure objectives are met on time and within budget.
· Ability to resolve conflicts and manage priorities efficiently.
· Open to feedback and adaptable to change.
· Must possess a valid driver’s license and passport for domestic and international travel.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
· none
Travel Requirements:
· Approximately 20–40% travel required to support installations, start-ups, and customer training.
· Occasional overnight stays required.
Physical Requirements:
· Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
· Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds at times.
Additional Information
This job description is designed to provide an overview of basic skills, experiences and education required to perform the job and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee to perform the essential functions of the job. In instances where educational degrees are required, the company will take into consideration factors such as additional experience, training, or certifications in lieu of specific educational requirements.
Methods Machine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Requirements: