Equipment Engineer I

Summary

The Equipment Engineer I supports the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of manufacturing equipment within a lithium-ion battery production environment. This role supports production operations by improving equipment reliability, reducing downtime, and implementing mechanical, automation, and process improvements that enhance safety, quality, and operational performance. Working closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Controls, and Process Engineering teams, the Equipment Engineer I supports equipment commissioning, preventive maintenance, root cause analysis, PLC modifications, and continuous improvement initiatives across Cell and Electrode Technology operations. This is an entry-level engineering position with development opportunity into more advanced equipment engineering responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Support the installation, commissioning, and startup of new manufacturing equipment and systems
• Develop understanding of battery manufacturing equipment and processes; perform equipment evaluations and test runs to support production and quality objectives
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and automation-related equipment issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime
• Complete equipment-related work orders and maintain accurate maintenance and repair documentation
• Support equipment modifications and improvement projects, including PLC logic updates, equipment redesigns, automation improvements, and process optimization initiatives
• Monitor equipment performance following repairs, upgrades, and improvements to verify effectiveness and sustainability
• Analyze equipment performance data, including OEE, downtime, breakdown frequency, yield losses, and micro-stoppages, to identify root causes and support continuous improvement
• Prepare reports and present findings related to equipment performance, reliability, and continuous improvement activities
• Train and mentor technicians and operators on equipment operation, troubleshooting techniques, maintenance practices, and process improvements
• Assist in developing and maintaining troubleshooting guides, work instructions, preventive maintenance procedures, and technical documentation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Production, Maintenance, Quality, Controls, and Process Engineering to support manufacturing operations
• Communicate with OEM equipment manufacturers, Korean-speaking engineers, and headquarters personnel regarding equipment performance, troubleshooting, engineering changes, and technical support
• Support routine audits, inspections, and compliance activities as required
• Follow established work instructions, standard operating procedures, and company policies
• Comply with all safety requirements, including PPE usage, machine guarding, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Participate in and successfully complete all required training programs
• Maintain regular and reliable on-site attendance
• Maintain cleanliness at work-site in accordance with 5S3R Standards (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain; Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container)
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field required
• Candidates with equivalent technical education, military training, internship experience, co-op experience, or demonstrated mechanical and technical aptitude may also be considered

Experience

• 1+ years of experience supporting manufacturing equipment, automation systems, maintenance, engineering, or related industrial operations preferred
• Internship, co-op, apprenticeship, military technical training, senior design projects, or equivalent hands-on technical experience may be considered in lieu of professional experience
• Experience installing, troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, or improving manufacturing equipment preferred
• Experience supporting PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation systems preferred; Mitsubishi PLC experience a plus
• Experience analyzing equipment performance, downtime, OEE metrics, or manufacturing process improvements preferred

Sponsorship

This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship, now or in the future. Candidates must possess current, unrestricted authorization to work in the United States.

Skills

• Understanding of mechanical equipment, industrial automation systems, and manufacturing processes
• Technical familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment and automated manufacturing systems preferred; Mitsubishi PLC proficiency a plus
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo, or similar platforms preferred
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, equipment manuals, and technical documentation
• Ability to train and mentor technicians and operators on equipment and troubleshooting practices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and willingness to learn new technologies

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to properly and continuously wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, steel-toed shoes, hearing protection, and nitrile gloves, for periods of up to 12 hours
• Must be able to repeatedly lift, push, pull, and move materials, tools, and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs for periods of up to 12 hours
• Must be able to repeatedly stand, walk, crouch, kneel, stoop, and reach overhead as required to perform maintenance and troubleshooting tasks
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and navigate safely throughout manufacturing and production areas
• Must be able to use hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, computers, and diagnostic devices

Work Environment

• Work is performed within a manufacturing facility and may include office, production, utility, maintenance, laboratory, and operational environments
• Frequent interaction with manufacturing equipment, automated systems, robotics, conveyors, and industrial machinery
• Exposure to noise, vibration, moving mechanical equipment, elevated temperatures, dust, and manufacturing-related hazards may occur
• Work may involve handling or working in proximity to industrial chemicals, regulated materials, and battery manufacturing processes
• Strict adherence to company safety policies, PPE requirements, machine safety protocols, and Lockout/Tagout procedures is mandatory

HLBMA LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that values the diversity of its workforce.