Automation Engineer

About the Role

Step into a high-impact role where engineering meets innovation. The Manufacturing Engineer – Robotics will design, program, and optimize advanced robotic automation systems that directly shape production performance. You’ll play a key role in driving efficiency, improving quality, enhancing safety, and increasing reliability across the manufacturing floor. This is a hands-on, forward-thinking position for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, working with cutting-edge robotics, and continuously improving how things are made.

Responsibilities

• Robotics & Automation
  • Design and implement robotic manufacturing cells and automated production systems.
  • Program, troubleshoot, and optimize industrial robots (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, Universal Robots).
  • Integrate robots with PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, conveyors, and other automation equipment.
  • Support applications including welding, material handling, assembly, palletizing, machine tending, and inspection.
  • Develop and maintain robotic documentation, backups, and standards.
• Manufacturing Engineering
  • Identify automation opportunities to improve throughput, quality, and labor efficiency.
  • Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Develop work instructions, process flows, PFMEAs, and standard operating procedures.
  • Support new product launches with scalable, repeatable manufacturing processes.
  • Conduct cycle time studies and capacity analysis.
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance Support
  • Diagnose and resolve robotic and automation issues to minimize downtime.
  • Partner with maintenance and production teams to improve uptime and equipment reliability.
  • Support root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Project Management
  • Lead automation projects from concept through installation and production launch.
  • Collaborate with vendors, integrators, and internal stakeholders.
  • Develop project timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.
  • Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure robotic systems meet OSHA, ANSI/RIA, and company safety standards.
  • Participate in risk assessments and machine safeguarding reviews.
  • Promote a strong culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, or related field.
• Experience
  • 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in an automated or robotic environment.
  • Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting industrial robots preferred.
  • Experience with PLCs and automation control systems preferred.
• Technical Skills
  • Robot programming platforms and teach pendants.
  • PLC programming and industrial communication protocols.
  • CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
  • Manufacturing process design and automation integration.
  • Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Familiarity with vision systems, sensors, servo systems, and pneumatics.
• Soft Skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
  • Hands-on, technically driven mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Lean certification.
• Experience with robotic welding or collaborative robots (cobots).
• Background in automotive, aerospace, consumer products, or high-volume manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies and data-driven manufacturing systems.

Culture

• Collaborative, respectful, and transparent communication across all levels of the organization.
• Proactively drives change and cross-functional improvements that enhance efficiency and quality.
• Values input from others and listens respectfully to ideas and concerns.
• Maintains confidentiality and integrity in all interactions.
• Embodies our values of Integrity, Trust, Creativity and Courage, Teamwork, and Excellence.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.
• May involve exposure to noise and varying temperatures.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Attendance on a regular, consistent basis is mandatory.