Vision Specialist

About the role

You will serve as the primary technical expert for SICK vision hardware within the Applied Controls team, owning the full evaluation and programming lifecycle for industrial vision systems. In this capacity, you will analyze customer applications to define the optimal vision solution and validate performance through rigorous sample testing. You will act as the designated SICK specialist during factory sales visits, demonstrating technical leadership and hands-on problem solving for stakeholders. You will interface directly with project engineers and integrators to ensure vision components integrate seamlessly with broader automation architectures. You will translate complex system requirements into clear technical specifications and implementation strategies that drive customer success. You will mentor internal staff on vision best practices while documenting procedures to sustain consistent quality and repeatability. You will maintain current knowledge of emerging machine vision technologies to advise on long term system roadmaps. You will uphold the highest standards of safety, quality, and professionalism in every customer interaction and project milestone.

Key facts

What you'll do

Perform detailed evaluation of customer-provided samples to determine the most suitable SICK vision hardware and configuration.

Program industrial vision systems using SICK tools and libraries to meet application requirements for accuracy, speed, and reliability.

Conduct in depth analysis of communication protocols and interfaces to ensure seamless integration with PLCs, HMIs, and higher level automation controllers.

Lead on site programming and troubleshooting during multiday customer visits, resolving real time issues in production environments.

Collaborate with the sales team to define technical scopes, timelines, and resource plans that align customer expectations with feasible solutions.

Document system architectures, parameter sets, and test procedures to create reusable assets for future projects and training.

Provide clear, professional communication to customers, translating technical outcomes into business value and operational impact.

Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying bottlenecks, standardizing workflows, and implementing best practices across projects.

Conduct training sessions for internal engineers and customer personnel on vision system operation, maintenance, and diagnostics.

Monitor project progress, anticipate risks, and coordinate with cross functional teams to keep installations on schedule and within scope.

Perform root cause analysis for field failures, developing and validating corrective actions that restore performance and prevent recurrence.

Maintain a disciplined approach to version control, configuration management, and data integrity for all project deliverables and code artifacts.

Champion safety and compliance in all activities, adhering to company policies, customer site rules, and relevant industry standards.

Demonstrate adaptability in fast changing environments, learning new hardware platforms and software tools as the portfolio expands.

Requirements

Must be a United States citizen or permanent resident authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Must be able to pass a background check and meet all eligibility requirements for access to customer facilities and sensitive information.

Must have the legal right to travel domestically for extended periods, including multiday stays at customer sites as project needs dictate.

Must be willing to relocate to Malvern Pennsylvania if not currently residing in the area, ensuring consistent availability for operations.

Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean record, and be capable of safely driving to customer locations as required.

Must be comfortable working with high voltage equipment, moving machinery, and industrial environments in accordance with safety protocols.

Must be able to lift and transport equipment up to fifty pounds, and navigate installation locations that may involve ladders or confined spaces.

Must commit to compliance with ITAR regulations and export control laws when handling software, hardware, and technical data.

Nice to have

Experience with SICK vision sensors, controllers, and associated programming environments.

Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, or similar automation networks.

Background in manufacturing automation, machine vision applications, or integration of sensor based inspection systems.

Familiarity with robotics, motion control, and machine learning concepts relevant to vision guided automation.

Experience with documentation standards, change management, and configuration control in engineering projects.

Practical notes

Domestic travel is required, including multiday stays at customer facilities as needed for installation and support.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and meet all background screening requirements.

Relocation to Malvern Pennsylvania may be required to align with operational needs and team integration.

All work activities must comply with safety policies, ITAR controls, and customer site regulations.