Automation Design Engineer

Position Summary

The Automation Design Engineer is a hands-on automation builder responsible for the end-to-end design, build, debugging, and commissioning of automated manufacturing equipment. This role requires direct, first-hand experience delivering automation systems from concept through installed, running production equipment. The position drives increased production capacity, improved quality, reduced cost, and the safe, reliable operation of automation systems on the manufacturing floor.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, physically build, debug, and implement automated manufacturing equipment including assembly automation, material handling systems, fixturing, and end-of-line test equipment.
• Perform hands-on equipment build activities including: Mechanical assembly and system integration Electrical panel build support, wiring verification, and I/O checkout Installation of sensors, actuators, robotics, and pneumatic components System bring-up, power-on testing, and on-machine debugging
• Develop, test, and deploy automation software including: PLC logic and HMI interfaces Robot programming Python-based software used for automation support, test systems, data collection, analysis, or manufacturing utilities
• Build, integrate, and commission robotic and pneumatic systems, including end-of-arm tooling, cylinders, valves, regulators, and air logic.
• Lead commissioning, debugging, and validation of automation equipment from prototype through full production ramp.
• Own automation systems from concept through FAT, SAT, installation, validation, and sustained production support.
• Support manufacturing by troubleshooting live production automation equipment to minimize downtime and improve OEE.
• Implement poka-yoke, in-process inspection, and automated quality controls.
• Perform root cause analysis of equipment failures and implement permanent corrective actions.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to optimize process flow, ergonomics, cycle time, and line balance.
• Support equipment upgrades, retrofits, and obsolescence mitigation.
• Develop standard work, maintenance documentation, and training materials for production support teams.
• Manage automation-related capital projects, including vendor coordination and FAT/SAT activities, while maintaining hands-on technical ownership.
• Ensure automation systems comply with applicable safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain complete engineering documentation including schematics, software revisions, and change control.
• Provide technical guidance to automation technicians and manufacturing support staff.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost, quality, throughput, and safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience/Background: 5 - 8+ years of demonstrated hands on experience physically building automated manufacturing equipment.
• Proven experience building automated assembly and material handling systems.
• Direct, hands-on experience with industrial robotics and pneumatic systems (cylinders, valves, regulators, air logic, tooling).
• Hands-on experience supporting automation in a production environment with uptime and throughput accountability.
• Experience in regulated or high-reliability industries (medical, aerospace, defense, automotive, oil & gas, or industrial manufacturing) preferred.
• This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Must be a U.S. Person or Protected Individual as defined by ITAR.

Skills

• Strong hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, motion control, robotics, sensors, actuators, and industrial networks.
• Python software experience required, applied to automation, test systems, data collection, or manufacturing support tools.
• Proven ability to debug electro-mechanical automation equipment on the manufacturing floor.
• Experience designing and integrating robotic systems with pneumatic tooling.
• Ability to read, create, and debug electrical schematics and interpret mechanical drawings.
• Experience with industrial test equipment and in-process / end-of-line testing.
• Programming experience with PLC languages and automation software platforms.
• CAD experience (electrical and/or mechanical) is beneficial.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Environmental & Physical Requirements

• Manufacturing / Non-Sedentary Requirements: Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job. Work may be performed in an office or warehouse environment. Typically requires the ability to spend 66%+ hours each work day doing the following activities: stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, or climb. May have possible exposure to dust, and may require the ability to lift and/or push up to 50 pounds 33% - 66% of the time.