Automation Engineer

Job Overview

The Automation Engineer & Machine Builder is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of automation systems, including design, fabrication, assembly, testing, installation, troubleshooting, and support of automated machinery and equipment. This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation solutions across the manufacturing floor. The position also supports continuous improvement initiatives and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure machines meet performance, safety, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Design & Engineering

• Design automated machinery and components using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred; experience in PTC Creo and AutoCAD is a plus).

• Read and interpret mechanical prints, electrical schematics, and pneumatic diagrams.

• Specify and source components, manage BOMs, and communicate with vendors to ensure design feasibility and cost efficiency.

• Create and maintain technical documentation, including setup sheets, process documentation, and operation manuals.

• Estimate costs and timelines for new automation programs and participate in review and approval meetings.

1. Machine Building & Assembly

• Assemble, wire, and plumb mechanical and electrical systems based on engineering designs and schematics.

• Use hand tools, shop tools, and fabrication equipment to modify or build parts as needed.

• Conduct preliminary testing of built machines, including leak testing, power-up tests, sensor verification, and safety checks.

• Redline prints and provide feedback to engineering to improve design for manufacturability and assembly.

1. Testing, Implementation & Support

• Support software/hardware integration and assist with final programming stages.

• Participate in all stages of validation and acceptance testing (IAT, FAT, SAT).

• Implement machinery on the production floor and establish initial process settings and control parameters.

• Maintain deployed automation systems, provide troubleshooting support, and propose long-term solutions to recurring issues.

• Provide training to technicians and operators on system use and maintenance.

1. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Management

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Quality, Maintenance) throughout the automation lifecycle.

• Coordinate new product sample builds and review for manufacturability.

• Track project timelines and milestones; proactively manage delays or resource requirements.

• Support efforts to keep automation program expenses within budget.

1. Continuous Improvement & Safety

• Participate in continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing downtime, enhancing productivity, and improving system safety.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following internal and OSHA safety procedures.

• Offer design improvement suggestions based on building and test observations.

Specific Skill Set

Communication

Skilled in delivering clear instructions, providing constructive feedback and documenting information accurately

Presentation

Strong presentation skills with attention to flow, clarity and visual story telling with Presentation tools

System

Proficiently operate Creo software, Excel, Word, ETC., Programming (PLC, HMI, Vision, Robotics)

Analytics

Strong organizational skills with a structured approach to project planning and execution.

Exposure

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field preferred.

• Minimum 3-5 years of combined experience in automation design, assembly, machine building, and testing.

• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment with both design and hands-on fabrication required.

• Proficient in SolidWorks; working knowledge of PTC Creo and AutoCAD is an advantage.

• Ability to read and create electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.

• Familiar with PLCs, sensors, pneumatics, control panels, and industrial automation systems.

• Strong mechanical aptitude, with proficiency in using shop tools and assembly techniques.

• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and basic CAD operations.

• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Able to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities and minimal supervision.

• Effective communication skills for cross-functional coordination.

• Self-motivated, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is usually in an office within a manufacturing facility with low to moderate noise level. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to work well with others, one on one, remote, via video and phone.

• Ability to work independently

Westfall -Technik is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, religious creed, physical disability, mental disability, age for individuals age 40 and over, medical condition (as defined by state law (for example, cancer or genetic characteristics or HIV/AIDS), marital status, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment.