Automation Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Advanced Molding Technologies - Circle Pines, MN

Position: Automation Engineer

Schedule:  Full-time, Monday–Friday (Core Hours) between 8:00am-5:00pm (with flex) with ability to occasionally work evenings or weekends to troubleshoot urgent automation issues and oversee off-peak system updates in support of 24/7 manufacturing operations.

Compensation: $85,000 to $115,000 annual salary (depending on experience and qualifications).

Position Summary:
Design, develop, and implement automation solutions to enhance efficiency, productivity, and quality in our injection molding processes. Drives automation initiatives and continuous improvement within the injection molding manufacturing environment.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and requirements in injection molding processes.
• Design and develop automation systems and robotic solutions for various injection molding applications, such as part handling, assembly, and inspection.
• Program and integrate robots and automaton equipment with injection molding machines and other manufacturing systems.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed automation projects.
• Develop and implement control systems and PLC programming to ensure seamless integration and operation of automation equipment.
• Monitor and analyze automation performance and process data to identify opportunities for optimization and improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to automation equipment and processes.
• Collaborate with tooling engineers and manufacturing engineers to optimize automation for different molds and part configurations.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and practices in all automation projects ad operations.
• Train and support production teams in operating and maintaining automation equipment.
• Stay updated on Industry trends and advancements in automation technology to recommend innovative solutions to process improvements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, Training, Skills, and Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 2-5 years Automation Engineering experience in Injection Molding or Medical Device Manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of automation technologies, robotics, and control systems.
• Experience with programming and integrating industrial robots, such as articulated robots and SCARA robots.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and control system design.
• Familiarity with automation software and simulation tools.
• In-depth understanding of injection molding processes and equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities concurrently.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of safety standards and best practices related to automation and manufacturing.
• Social/Team Skills: Self-Awareness, Collaboration, Service Orientation, Active Listening, Positive, Outgoing, Understanding, Cooperative, Creative, Persuasive, Responsive.
• Reliable, consistent, and steady approach to activities.
• Alignment and adherence to AMT Core Values.

Physical Requirements

Mobility: Ability to move around the production area(s) to access automation equipment, robotic systems, and injection molding machines. Involves standing or walking for periods while observing automation processes, performing maintenance tasks, and troubleshooting issues.

• Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for handling tools and equipment during setup, programming, and maintenance of automation systems.
• Visual Acuity: Strong vision is necessary for observing automation processes, reading technical drawings, and inspecting robotic components.
• Comfort with Heat and Noise: Injection molding machines can generate heat and noise during operation.
• Lifting capacity: While not a primary requirement, some occasional lifting of tooling or equipment may be necessary. Ability to lift moderately heavy objects.
• Ability to Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ability to wear appropriate PPE, such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection, to ensure their safety in the manufacturing environment.

Advanced Molding Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.