Senior, Automation Engineer

Nordson EFD, a global leader in Engineered Fluid Dispensing, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we are looking for candidates who share that same commitment.Summary of the roleAs a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, where your ideas and contributions will be valued and respected.JOB SUMMARYThe Senior Engineer, Automation is a hands-on technical leader responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting automated manufacturing systems. This role requires strong mechanical, electrical, and controls engineering aptitude, with direct ownership of equipment performance, reliability, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIESAutomation System Design & OwnershipLead the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing equipment, fixtures, and assembly processes.Serve as the technical owner for automation systems from concept through sustained production.Ensure automation solutions are robust, scalable, safe, and aligned with manufacturing requirements.Act as the escalation point for complex technical issues impacting equipment performance and uptime.Mechanical Engineering & Machine DesignDesign and modify mechanical systems including mechanisms, tooling, fixtures, and machine assemblies using SolidWorks.Improve machine reliability, ergonomics, throughput, and serviceability through thoughtful mechanical design.Redesign or modify components and systems to address chronic reliability, quality, or safety issues.Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) initiatives.#LI-NS1Electrical & Controls EngineeringDesign, specify, and troubleshoot electrical control systems including control panels, wiring schematics, sensors, actuators, motion devices, and safety components.Develop, program, and debug PLC-based control systems (e.g., Allen‑Bradley, Omron), including I/O, sequencing, motion control, and safety logic.Configure and support HMI systems, ensuring intuitive operator interfaces, alarms, diagnostics, and system visibility.Ensure electrical designs and implementations comply with applicable UL, CE, and internal standards.Robotics, Vision, and Advanced AutomationProgram, integrate, and troubleshoot industrial robots (e.g., ABB, Fanuc), including motion optimization and end‑of‑arm tooling.Implement and maintain machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence) for inspection, alignment, and process verification.Integrate robotics, vision, motion, and PLC systems into cohesive, reliable automation solutions.Troubleshooting, Reliability & Production SupportDiagnose and resolve complex electromechanical system issues on live production equipment.Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for chronic downtime or performance losses.Establish preventive maintenance strategies, spare parts lists, and reliability improvements to maximize uptime.Provide hands-on support during equipment startups, ramp-ups, and sustained production.Capital Equipment & Project ExecutionLead all aspects of capital equipment projects, including requirements definition, vendor selection, design reviews, and technical approvals.Manage FAT/SAT, installation, commissioning, validation, and production handoff.Prepare detailed cost justifications, ROI analyses, and capital expenditure requests.Coordinate internal and external resources to deliver projects on time and within budget.All other duties as assigned.EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTSBachelor's degree in relevant engineering discipline preferred.7+ years of experience in a fast-paced automation field.Vision System programming (e.g., Cognex, Keyence)Programming Logic Controllers (PLC) (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Omron)Diagnostics/troubleshooting control system issuesRobot programming (e.g., ABB, Fanuc)SKILLS & ABILITIESProficient in Design/Drafting Tools AutoCAD and SolidWorksConfiguring and designing HMI systems (e.g., Allen Bradley. PC)Familiar with Industry Standards UL and CEFamiliar with various Motion Controllers/ActuatorsProven success in progress and changeAdvanced Electromechanical SkillsFluent in 3D modeling of parts, mechanisms, and assembliesExcellent communication skillsAdvanced Knowledge of Microsoft office products including Project, and ExcelAbility to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced environment under tight deadlines.Ability to effectively present ideas and concepts to top management and to implement ideas that improve the process.Six Sigma Certification, Black Belt preferredWORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDSOffice, lab & manufacturing environment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.TRAVEL REQUIRED MinimalInterested?If you are interested in being a part of a team and creating an inclusive and diverse workplace, please apply online with your CV.About Nordson EFDNordson EFD is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of fluid dispensing systems and single-use fluid packaging. By joining our team today, you will help us bring innovative ideas to life. Nordson EFD is a global team that works to create systems and consumables that improve the fluid dispensing process. We offer a supportive culture in a growing and dynamic work environment. Whether you're just beginning your career or you're a seasoned professional, there's a place for you to belong at Nordson EFD. We offer hourly and salary positions in production, maintenance, customer service, quality, engineering, and more. We actively invest in our teams to help you build your skillsets and advance your career.SummaryLocation: USA - Rhode Island - East ProvidenceType: Full time