Senior Vision Engineer

Senior Vision Engineer

Duncan, SC

Detroit, MI

Hammond, IN

McCalla, AL

Grand Prairie, TX

Position Summary

The Vision Engineer serves as Lear’s subject matter expert for machine vision, deep learning vision applications, and system integration. This role is responsible for the complete lifecycle of vision projects, including concept development, system design, programming, installation, commissioning, plant training, and post-launch support. The ideal candidate combines strong software development expertise with hands-on installation experience and is capable of leading complex vision system deployments in manufacturing environments worldwide.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a rare combination of software engineer, vision specialist, and hands-on industrial integrator. They possess strong Python and VPDL expertise, are comfortable installing and commissioning equipment on plant floors, can manage projects from concept through launch, and have the leadership capability to mentor less-experienced team members while delivering complex vision solutions globally.

Key Responsibilities:

Vision System Design & Development

• Evaluate application requirements and select the most appropriate vision technologies, cameras, lighting, optics, and software platforms.
• Design, develop, and deploy machine vision solutions for manufacturing and quality inspection processes.
• Develop and maintain vision applications using Vision Pro, Vision Pro Deep Learning (VPDL), and other deep-learning-based vision platforms.
• Build, label, validate, and maintain image datasets ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of images to support AI and machine learning models.
• Optimize vision system performance, accuracy, reliability, and uptime.

Software Engineering & Programming

• Develop PC-based applications primarily using Python.
• Support lower-level integrations and system enhancements using C/C++ as required.
• Configure and integrate vision software with manufacturing equipment and plant networks.
• Develop performance monitoring tools and key performance indicators to improve system reliability and reduce downtime.

System Integration & Commissioning

• Integrate vision systems with PLCs, robots, PCs, HMIs, and manufacturing equipment.
• Configure cameras, frame grabbers, communications cards, industrial networks, and related hardware.
• Develop, test, troubleshoot, and validate complete PLC ↔ Vision System ↔ PC architectures.
• Lead system commissioning, startup activities, and customer acceptance testing.
• Develop contingency and disaster recovery plans for mission-critical vision applications.

Installation & Field Support

• Perform hands-on installation activities including camera mounting, focusing, mechanical adjustments, and system setup.
• Use hand tools and basic mechanical equipment as needed during installations.
• Coordinate activities with plant personnel, project teams, maintenance groups, and quality organizations.
• Train receiving plant personnel on operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of deployed systems.
• Provide advanced technical support following project handoff.

Project Management & Leadership

• Manage projects from concept through final handoff while maintaining schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
• Establish and track project timelines and proactively communicate risks or delays.
• Gather technical requirements and resolve missing information with stakeholders.
• Communicate effectively with plant quality managers, engineering teams, project managers, and leadership.
• Mentor and train junior engineers and technicians to strengthen organizational capability and reduce dependency on key personnel.
• Complete risk assessments and ensure compliance with company safety and engineering standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Automation, Robotics, Controls Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in machine vision, industrial automation, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• Strong programming experience in Python.
• Experience with Vision Pro Deep Learning (VPDL) and/or Cognex VisionPro applications.
• Experience configuring and programming industrial cameras, optics, lighting systems, and vision hardware.
• Experience creating, labeling, validating, and maintaining machine vision datasets.
• Experience integrating vision systems with PLCs, industrial PCs, robots, and manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot complete machine vision solutions from hardware through software.
• Willingness and ability to perform hands-on installation and commissioning work in manufacturing facilities.
• Ability to travel globally up to 50%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with C/C++ programming.
• Experience with Fanuc and/or Universal Robots (UR) programming and integration.
• Ability to read and create electrical schematics using AutoCAD.
• Experience with frame grabbers, communication cards, and industrial networking technologies.
• Experience deploying AI and deep learning models within manufacturing environments.
• Previous leadership, mentoring, or technical team development experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Recognized expertise in machine vision technologies and available industry solutions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate alternatives and select optimal technical solutions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Self-starter with a high level of initiative and accountability.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented, results-driven, and focused on continuous improvement.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Comfortable working independently in plant environments while driving projects to successful completion.