Lead Automation Engineer

Job-ID: 55509Category: Laboratory OperationsLocation: Tampa, FL, United StatesWorkplace: On-site dailySchedule: Full time, DayPosted: 2026-03-10Regular or Temporary: RegularWeekly Working Hours: 40.00Regional Automation Engineer is responsible to lead all automation systems inside our region, drive continuous improvement initiatives to our automated systems, troubleshooting automated equipment, analyzing performance and reliability, collaborating with Enterprise Automation Team on creating or improving automated systems inside our labs.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechatronics, Electromechanical Engineering, or related field.5+years of experience in industrial automation integration and robot programmingProficient with programming PLCs (e.g Allen Bradley, Siemens, etc.)Expertise in robotics systems (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, ETC) and vision-guided systems a plusExpertise in AI and vision systems (Cognex, Keyence, Matrox, Omron, etc)Proficiency in SCADA, HMI development, and industrial communication protocols (ethernet/IP, MODbus, Profibus, etc) strong understanding of PID control loops motion controls, etcStrong understanding of industrial networking and control systems.Knowledge of lean manufacturing, six sigma, or continuous improvement methodologiesExcellent problem -solving analytical and project management skills.Strong communication skills and ability to lead technical discussion across teams.Able to differentiate between color coded wires and interpret visual readouts.Work flexible schedule/shift including weekends, nights and /or holidaysResponsibilitiesResponsible for the operation, preventive maintenance, and repair of advanced automated equipment which supports continuous lab operations, 24/7 operations.Validate and lead all new automation system implementation inside our region, ensuring compliance with safety standardsOptimize existing automation systems for better reliability and performance.Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of automation systems to minimize downtime and improve OEEDevelop and program industrial robots (e.g FANUC, ABB, KUKA, UR, YASKAWA ) for various automation applications such as material handling, and inter-process connectivity.Manage and document automation software revisions, electrical schematics, system configurations, including service/repair reports, calibrations, etc.Be the regional automation SME supporting and training leader for all lab automated systems.Work in collaboration with Enterprise Automation team to design, install and commissioning new automation systems including PLC’s, HMI’s, Vision Systems & Sensors, Actuators and industrial networks into cohesive control systems to enhance efficiency and reduce costStay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and bets practices in industrial automation and engineering controlSupport preventive maintenance programs and drive proactive reliability strategiesExperience with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems)About the organizationQuest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply. While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume. Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.