Automation Engineer

Job DetailsDescriptionThe Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and sustaining automated manufacturing systems that improve production efficiency, consistency, and cost performance. This role drives automation strategy by identifying capable vendors, developing system concepts, and ensuring successful integration of automation into manufacturing operations.JOB OUTCOMESThe Automation Engineer is expected to deliver measurable improvements in manufacturing performance through the successful design, implementation, and support of automation systems. Performance is demonstrated by:Reducing production costs and labor content through effective automation solutionsImproving uptime, reliability, and efficiency of new and existing automated systemsSuccessfully launching automation projects on time, within budget, and meeting defined performance targetsExpanding automation capability by identifying and qualifying new vendors and technologiesMinimizing downtime through effective troubleshooting, system support, and error recovery improvements ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESAutomation and Controls — 50%Designs and implements automated manufacturing systems that increase capacity, improve uptime, and ensure repeatable performanceDevelops and integrates control systems (PLC, HMI, robotics, vision) to ensure safe, error-proof, and efficient operationPrograms, debugs, and optimizes robotic and automated systems on the shop floorInterfaces automation with manufacturing equipment including welding, cutting, stamping, forming, inspection, and assembly systemsIdentifies, evaluates, and collaborates with automation vendors to deliver high-quality system buildsReviews and approves system designs, assembly drawings, and tooling components to ensure functionality and manufacturabilitySupports development and execution of IQ/OQ/PQ validation activities to ensure systems meet regulatory and performance requirementsProject Management — 30%Leads automation projects from concept through full production implementation, ensuring alignment with technical, cost, and timeline objectivesDevelops and evaluates cost estimates, production rates, and design feasibility to support decision-makingDrives cross-functional collaboration to ensure successful system integration and project executionIdentifies and executes continuous improvement initiatives that enhance manufacturing performanceDevelops robust, repeatable manufacturing processes that meet defined run rates, scrap targets, and process capability requirementsSystems Support — 20%Provides technical support and troubleshooting for automated and robotic systems to minimize downtime and sustain performanceDevelops preventative maintenance strategies and standard work instructions to ensure long-term system reliabilityCreates and maintains bills of material to support system builds, maintenance, and spare parts managementContinuously improves system performance through monitoring, root cause analysis, and corrective actionsQUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field required3–7 years of experience in automation, process improvement, or manufacturing engineeringExperience with IQ, OQ, PQ validation processes and protocols requiredDemonstrated ability to synthesize complex information and develop effective solutionsExperience in high-volume manufacturing environments (injection molding, metal stamping, etc.) strongly preferredProven ability to independently design cost-effective, functional automation systems meeting complex requirementsLICENSE AND CERTIFICATION· NoneTECHNICAL SKILLSProgramming and debugging PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and vision systemsAllen Bradley (RSLogix 5000), FactoryTalk, RSLinxMS Office Suite; Minitab or similar statistical toolsBlueprint reading and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA / GR&R)Design of Experiments (DOE)QualificationsEducationRequiredBachelors or better in Engineering.#Modernmachiningsolutions