Automation Engineer

About the role

This role focuses on designing and implementing process-driven, innovative sealant and adhesive application solutions using industrial robots and related dispensing technologies. The Process Engineer performs process engineering analysis and feasibility studies for sealer automation equipment, supports customer quotations, and executes complex sealant and adhesive systems from concept through installation and production support. The position involves significant onsite work at automotive manufacturing plants across North America and requires frequent travel during system installation and launch phases.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed process evaluations, feasibility studies, and proposal support prior to the release of customer quotations for sealer and adhesive automation systems.
• Develop technical proposals that specify robot types, configurations, and cell designs based on customer requirements and production needs.
• Design and implement automated processes using industrial robots and a wide variety of applicator and dispensing products for sealant and adhesive applications.
• Execute project processes upon receipt of customer orders, ensuring alignment with business requirements and customer expectations.
• Support offline programming activities and help identify and validate cycle times and process parameters for sealant and adhesive application cells.
• Collaborate with internal teams during the modification and build phase to integrate vision systems and other automation technologies into the robot cells.
• Participate in system buyoff activities, providing technical input and ensuring that robot systems meet agreed specifications before shipment.
• Travel to customer sites to support installation of robot systems, working closely with the installation team to complete system setup, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
• Lead or support runoff activities at customer facilities to verify that systems operate correctly, meet performance criteria, and are ready for production.
• Provide production support during system launch, assisting with process optimization, issue resolution, and continuous improvement of sealant and adhesive application processes.
• Perform customer demonstrations and develop accurate analysis, reports, and presentation materials that clearly communicate demonstration results and recommendations.
• Serve as a primary point of contact to customers during system launches, maintaining clear communication and managing expectations throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work hands-on with robots and associated equipment, including mechanical adjustments and basic maintenance as needed.
• Maintain reliable and consistent attendance to support project timelines, customer commitments, and team coordination.
• Adhere to safety and quality standards while working in manufacturing environments and during onsite installations.

Essential Skills

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field.
• At least 1 year of experience in one or more of the following areas: machine vision or vision systems (such as Cognex or Keyence), robot programming, high-pressure systems (approximately 3,000–5,000 PSI), hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, fluid delivery systems, shot meters, pumps, dispensers, or supply pumps.
• Ability to mechanically work on industrial robots, including using hand tools and performing basic mechanical adjustments.
• Experience working onsite with customers or in a customer-facing technical role.
• Previous experience working in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 60%–80% of the time within North America, often to automotive manufacturing plants.
• Comfort working with industrial automation equipment, including robots and dispensing systems.
• Strong analytical skills for performing feasibility studies, process evaluations, and cycle time analysis.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers, presenting technical information, and collaborating with internal teams.
• Reliable, consistent attendance and the ability to support long-duration projects lasting 1 to 3 years.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with sealer or dispense robots, particularly in automotive or high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with machine vision and vision systems such as Cognex and Keyence.
• Experience in robot programming and virtual tools such as Roboguide or similar simulation platforms.
• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems, high-pressure fluid delivery, shot meters, and dispensing equipment.
• Production and manufacturing experience, including exposure to commissioning and production support activities.
• Previous military experience, which may contribute to strong discipline, adaptability, and technical aptitude.
• Simulation or CAD experience, including experience with virtual commissioning or digital validation of automation systems.
• Controls experience, including understanding of industrial control systems and integration with robots and vision systems.
• Ability to work effectively in project teams and collaborate with installation and process engineering groups.
• Interest in working with a diversified portfolio of robotic automation solutions across multiple industries.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $40.00/hr.

Location

This is a fully onsite position based out of Rochester Hills, MI.