Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Manufacturing Automation Engineer IISwedesboro, NJ | Full-TimeAbout the RoleWe're looking for a Manufacturing Automation Engineer II who thrives at the intersection of automation, continuous improvement, and hands-on engineering. In this role, you'll design, implement, and optimize automated and semi-automated manufacturing systems that improve throughput, reduce waste, and elevate product quality.If you enjoy solving complex production challenges, working cross-functionally, and seeing your automation solutions come to life on the factory floor, this is a role where your impact will be immediate and visible.Why Join UsMake a real impact by designing automation that goes directly into productionWork in a collaborative, cross-functional environment where engineering drives resultsBe part of a culture focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and safetyOpportunity to mentor others and grow your technical leadershipWhat You'll DoAs a key technical leader within manufacturing, you will:Design, specify, procure, commission, and implement automated and semi-automated manufacturing equipmentDevelop and optimize automation strategies involving PLCs, robotics, motion control, machine vision, and automated test systemsLead and facilitate engineering activities such as DFA, PFMEA, A3 problem solving, DOE, RCA, and data analysisServe as the operations lead for New Product Introductions (NPI) and engineering changes (ECNs/ECRs), ensuring automation readinessPartner with Lean/CI teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives that reduce defects, cycle time, and labor costSupport production through automation troubleshooting, PLC logic updates, HMI adjustments, and system upgradesCreate and maintain routings, work instructions, process flows, control plans, and BOMs in ERP systemsApply Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kanban, SMED, line balancing) with an automation-first mindsetCollaborate with suppliers and system integrators to evaluate and deploy new automation technologiesEnsure compliance with OSHA and machine safety standards, implementing safety systems such as light curtains, e-stops, and LOTOMentor and coach engineers, supporting technical growth and best practicesWork cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Logistics, Maintenance, IT/OT, and Technical Sales teamsTechnologies You'll Work WithPLCs & Controls: Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, Omron, Mitsubishi, Schneider ElectricRobotics: ABB, FANUC, Yaskawa Motoman, Universal Robots, KawasakiVision & Sensors: Cognex, Keyence, Sick, Banner, PanasonicMotion Control: Kinetix, Bosch Rexroth, Festo, Parker HannifinDesign & Manufacturing Software: SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam, ANSYSData & Quality: Minitab, JMP, SPC, MES, NI LabVIEWERP Systems: SAP, Oracle, Infor, Epicor, Microsoft DynamicsWhat You BringRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or related), or equivalent hands-on automation experience5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience preferred with significant responsibility for automationHands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLC-controlled production systemsProven experience designing and supporting automated equipment (robotics, motion control, sensors, actuators, safety devices)Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve automation-related production issuesExperience supporting NPI and design changes, with DFMA/DFA focusWorking knowledge of PFMEA, control plans, routings, BOMs, and ERP/MRP systemsProficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel for automation data analysisPreferred / Nice to HaveLean or Six Sigma certificationExperience with automated electromechanical assembly or joining processes (welding, brazing, soldering)Familiarity with CE/UL compliance, safety PLCs, and machine risk assessmentsCompensation & TransparencyWe believe in transparent and equitable pay. All U.S. job postings include a good-faith salary range based on role, location, experience, and internal equity. We're happy to discuss compensation openly throughout the hiring process.