Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support and advance automation initiatives within a high-volume battery manufacturing environment. This individual will play a critical role in the development, integration, commissioning, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems, while also serving as a key contributor during new automation line startup activities at an established production facility.

The ideal candidate will possess strong hands-on experience with industrial automation systems, controls engineering, robotics, PLC programming, and manufacturing process optimization. This role requires a highly collaborative engineer who can work cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, Engineering, and external automation vendors to successfully implement and sustain automated manufacturing solutions.

The individual in this position must possess excellent hands-on ability, insight and awareness directing efforts on equipment reliability, process uptime, yield improvements and cost reduction. This position will work in a cross-functional team reporting to the Manufacturing Manager with direct responsibility for manufacturing engineering efforts within assigned operations.

Essential Functions*:

• Lead automation projects from concept through implementation, startup, validation, and production support
• Support startup and commissioning of new automated manufacturing lines and equipment within an active production facility
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motion control systems, robotics, and industrial networks
• Partner with operations and maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability, uptime, throughput, and process capability
• Diagnose and resolve complex automation and controls issues in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control narratives, programming documentation, SOPs, and change controls
• Coordinate with external machine builders, integrators, and overseas suppliers during equipment installation and startup
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and production qualification activities
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation efficiency, scrap reduction, cycle time improvement, and labor optimization
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for automated systems
• Assist in development of automation standards and long-term manufacturing technology roadmap
• Train production and maintenance personnel on automated equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Participate in capital project planning, equipment specifications, and vendor evaluations
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English fluently

Education / Training / Skills / Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related technical discipline
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on industrial automation engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience supporting automated production line startup, commissioning, and integration activities
• Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens preferred)
• Experience with HMIs, SCADA systems, robotics, servo/motion control, and industrial communication protocols
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical drawings
• Experience troubleshooting electrical controls systems in a production environment
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating cross-functionally
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Comfortable working on the manufacturing floor in an industrial environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in battery manufacturing, chemical processing, medical device, electronics manufacturing, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience with vision systems, automated inspection equipment, and data collection systems
• Familiarity with MES, ERP integration, and Industry 4.0 technologies
• Experience with robotic systems such as FANUC, ABB, or Universal Robots
• Knowledge of NFPA, OSHA, and industrial safety standards
• Experience supporting multi-shift manufacturing operations
• Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement experience

Key Competencies

• Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
• Automation Line Startup & Commissioning
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Technical Leadership
• Project Execution
• Manufacturing Process Optimization
• Safety Focused Decision Making

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment supporting battery production operations
• Frequent interaction with production equipment, machinery, and automated systems
• May require occasional off-shift or weekend support during startup activities and critical production events
• PPE required in designated production areas

Nice to Have

• Proficient in spoken and written Mandarin for business and cross‑functional communication

Physical Requirements:

• Role requires occasional standing, walking, sitting, grasping, handling tools or equipment, reaching, climbing stairs, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and clear verbal communication.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

*Ultralife Corporationis an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at View phone number on ziprecruiter.com. *

You should be proficient in:

• PLC Troubleshooting Skills
• Preventive Maintenance & Inspection
• Equipment Repair & Maintenance