Strategic Automation Consultant

Are you passionate about the future of robots will play in transforming organizations across multiple industries? Do you find complex problems exciting as it relates to supply chain, logistics, and AI? We are looking to expand our Flywheel Services team, helping customers define, mature, and achieve their robotics transformation objectives. This Strategic Automation Consultant, Flywheel will be on the frontlines of supporting our Cobot customers - leading from experience and defining a roadmap in the short and long term as part of the customer journey.

The ideal candidate is passionate about driving innovation and accelerating robotics transformation for our customers. In this role, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, customers, and partners to develop and launch cutting-edge robotic solutions. You'll need to thrive in an environment of ambiguity, excel at problem-solving, and be comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting. Effective communication at all levels is key, as you'll be presenting and conveying your insights clearly in both written and verbal form. If you're a strategic thinker with a proven track record in consulting and a deep understanding of the robotics industry, we want to hear from you.

This role is open to work remotely within the US with preference for proximity to major airport hubs, or can be located at our Seattle or Santa Clara offices onsite. It also requires an average of 40% travel to meet with customers, vendors, and attend industry events.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Consultation & Strategy Development

• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, timelines, and milestones, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives, often for multiple concurrent engagements. 
• Analyze business processes across physical, digital, operational, and data layers to identify use cases for robotic automation and AI-driven efficiencies.
• Translate complex robotics technologies into compelling business cases that influence executive buy-in and drive strategic automation investments.
• Develop strategic roadmaps for robotics transformation aligned with business goals.
• Develop detailed financial models quantifying automation ROI, including labor cost reductions, throughput improvements, and maintenance cost projections.

2. Performance Monitoring & Optimization

• Establish KPIs and performance metrics to measure the impact of robotics transformation.
• Analyze data insights from robotics implementations to optimize efficiency and scalability.
• Provide continuous improvement recommendations for automation strategies.

3. Advise on Robotic Capabilities

• Maintain a strong understanding of robotic capabilities in warehouse, hospital, manufacturing, laboratories, and more, to include offerings and technologies from various robotics vendors, platforms, and third-party solutions.
• Offer advice on sorting, ASRS, picking, cross docking, kitting, and more.

4. Supply Chain / Logistics / Robotics Transformation

• Leverage the Cobot team’s expertise to drive the adoption of robotics solutions that align with customer needs.
• Provide expertise on WMS, WES, and WCS technology solutions and how each can support a customer’s needs.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to ensure robotics solutions support long-term plans, not just short-term quick wins.

5. Customer Engagement

• Deliver presentations and technical information to customers and stakeholders, adapting your communication style to different audiences.
• Gather customer feedback and collaborate with internal teams to enhance product features.
• Identify problems without an “owner” and take initiative to figure them out.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business or related field. 
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in physical AI, hardware robotics, or hardware automation optimization.
• Proven experience in customer-facing roles (internal or external) with the ability to clearly convey complex technical concepts.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for addressing complex technical challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly and effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Highly motivated teammate with excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Willing to travel at least 40% time.
• Must have and maintain US citizenship or permanent residency.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in application engineering, hardware development, and product development in enterprise-wide programs.
• Demonstrated expertise in integrating new systems within established software-driven workflows.
• Proven track record in logistics, healthcare, municipal services, or similar industries.
• Successful history of implementing multiple robotic systems into production pathways.
• Hands-on experience in robotic deployment.
• Experience in risk management and cybersecurity.

The annual base salary range for this position is $160,000 - $200,000 plus equity and comprehensive benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role and experience level. The range reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position in the noted geographic area. Within the range, individual pay is determined by additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.