Automation Engineer II

Reports To: Manufacturing Engineering Manager POSITION SUMMARY Develop, design, and maintain automation systems that support manufacturing and testing operations. Independently execute defined automation projects and contribute to larger initiatives led by senior engineers. Streamline manufacturing processes through digital and physical automation solutions. Receives general direction on routine assignments and works with moderate supervision. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES Develop and maintain automation systems for manufacturing and testing, including robotic test platforms. Perform fault isolation across mechanical, electrical, firmware, and software interfaces on automated equipment; drive corrective actions in coordination with manufacturing, quality, and operations. Build and validate prototypes through design iterations using SolidWorks, FDM 3D printing, and low-volume / high-mix manufacturing methods. Author service documentation: setup procedures, calibration protocols, troubleshooting guides, and work instructions. Maintain recurring field health reporting through the team's custom monitoring platform. Evaluate vendor components (sensors, actuators) and provide technical input on make‑vs‑buy decisions in coordination with senior engineers and purchasing. Perform Gage R&R analyses and apply statistical / data-driven methods to refine equipment performance. Cross‑functionally collaborate with manufacturing, production, design, and quality stakeholders to ensure design intent, calibration, and software support are documented. Apply LEAN principles and support continuous improvement of automated systems. Present project updates and contribute to PDR / CDR reviews with senior engineer support. Follow all company safety and policy procedures. ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES Researches and recommends manufacturing and testing equipment. Develops ROI and cost‑savings analyses for automation projects; presents to management as requested. Provides input on time standards, tooling, and processing requirements. Manages multiple parallel projects with moderate supervision. Mentors interns and entry‑level engineers on automation projects (as opportunities arise). MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field. 3–6 years of professional experience in automation, manufacturing engineering, or robotics. 2+ years experience with Python or C#. 2+ years experience with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software. 1+ year on‑the‑job experience in a manufacturing or production floor environment. Experience programming automation / robotic platforms (ROS, ROS2, or equivalent). Experience characterizing and evaluating electromechanical systems. 1+ year experience with SQL or database querying (preferred). Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR/EAR requirements. SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Solid grasp of manufacturing methods and tooling design fundamentals (mechanical and electrical). Proven ability to take an automation project from concept through deployment with general direction. Strong analytical skills; able to identify constraints and develop solutions independently. Effective communicator across engineering, operations, vendor, and occasional customer interactions. Scalability mindset — designs solutions with growth in mind. Able to translate concepts into CAD and electrical/mechanical tooling designs. WORKING CONDITIONS Approximately 50% of time is spent at the computer. Remainder is spent on the manufacturing floor working with automated equipment. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Must be able to work in an analytical environment applying specialized knowledge to perform required tasks. Occasional lifting of equipment components and extended time on the production floor. ACCOUNTABILITY Contacts: Regular contact with team members across manufacturing engineering, production, quality, and operations. Occasional vendor interaction. Clear written and verbal communication required. Responsibility: Has moderate impact on productivity, material utilization, and profits. Work performed with moderate supervision while allowing creativity and latitude in judgment. This position is under ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by Title 22 of Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) §120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status. DEGREE OF SUPERVISION Works under moderate supervision of the Manufacturing Engineering Manager, with technical guidance from senior engineers. #J-18808-Ljbffr