Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Manufacturing Automation EngineerThe Manufacturing Automation Engineer designs, integrates, qualifies, and supports automation systems that improve manufacturing quality, yield, throughput, safety, and cost performance. This hands-on role partners with Process Engineering, Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Design Engineering, equipment suppliers, and manufacturing sites to implement reliable, maintainable automation solutions for new and existing products. Scope and independence are calibrated to the selected candidate's experience and demonstrated impact.Key ResponsibilitiesAutomation System Design & IntegrationDevelop and support automation concepts, equipment specifications, layouts, interfaces, and functional requirements for manufacturing applications.Design, integrate, and troubleshoot automation systems including robotics, machine vision and automated inspection, conveyance and material handling, sensors, fixtures, and controls.Work with internal teams and external integrators to ensure automation solutions meet defined technical, safety, quality, and production requirements.Qualification, Validation & CommissioningDevelop and execute equipment qualification, acceptance, and performance-verification plans for automated manufacturing systems.Support design reviews, factory acceptance testing, site acceptance testing, installation, commissioning, startup, and production handoff.Document system performance, test results, operating procedures, training materials, and lessons learned; ensure issues are resolved before final acceptance.Automation Performance & TroubleshootingMonitor and analyze automation performance, including uptime, cycle time, yield, throughput, defect detection, and equipment reliability.Troubleshoot automation-related failures and production interruptions; lead structured root-cause analysis and corrective-action activities.Identify and implement practical improvements to improve system robustness, maintainability, safety, and operating performance.Manufacturing Support & Continuous ImprovementProvide timely technical support to manufacturing operations, maintenance teams, and external partners for automation-related issues.Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven problem-solving tools to improve quality, productivity, waste reduction, and labor efficiency.Support process-engineering and operations teams in developing standard work, preventive-maintenance requirements, and recovery plans for automated equipment.New Product Introduction & Technology DeploymentSupport new-product introduction, pilot builds, process transfer, and production ramp by evaluating automation readiness and executing implementation plans.Contribute to reuse and standardization by documenting proven equipment configurations, technical requirements, and operating best practices.Cross-Functional CollaborationWork effectively with Process Engineering, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, Design Engineering, Supply Chain, suppliers, and manufacturing partners to execute technical deliverables.Communicate project status, technical findings, risks, and recommended actions clearly to relevant stakeholders.Support a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and continuous learning across manufacturing operations.QualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, Manufacturing, Industrial, or a related engineering discipline.5+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing automation, industrial automation, controls, robotics, or related engineering disciplines.Demonstrated experience supporting automated equipment from concept, design, or integration through commissioning, qualification, and production support.Experience in high-volume manufacturing, new-product introduction, process transfer, or production scale-up is preferred.Technical ExpertiseHands-on knowledge of industrial robotics, machine vision and automated inspection, conveyance and material handling, and automated manufacturing equipment.Experience with PLC-based control systems, HMIs, industrial networks, sensors, actuators, motion systems, machine safety, and equipment/system integration.Experience with FAT/SAT, commissioning, performance qualification, troubleshooting, and structured root-cause analysis.Familiarity with manufacturing data systems, MES/ERP interfaces, traceability, or digital-manufacturing tools is beneficial.Working Style & CollaborationAbility to independently lead assigned technical work while seeking timely alignment on priorities, tradeoffs, and escalated risks.Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively with technical, operational, and supplier stakeholders.Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical work and present findings concisely.Skills & CompetenciesStrong systems-thinking, analytical, troubleshooting, and data-based decision-making skills.Hands-on, detail-oriented approach to automation design, integration, qualification, and production support.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.High degree of ownership, integrity, adaptability, and commitment to safety and quality.Work Environment & TravelPrimarily flex office and manufacturing-plant environments. Travel is expected up to approximately 30%, depending on manufacturing locations, supplier needs, and product lifecycle requirements.Impact of the RoleThis role turns automation concepts into reliable manufacturing capability. The engineer's work strengthens product quality, yield, throughput, safety, and cost performance by deploying and sustaining robust automation systems across the manufacturing network.