Automation Engineer, Mechanical & Electrical Builder

Sapience Automation is a reputable provider of turnkey solutions for industrial automation, specializing in diverse industries such as automotive, medical, aviation, and general industry. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Sapience Automation is committed to fostering long-term customer relationships by delivering excellence through its skilled workforce, standardized processes, and passion for innovation. The company values transparency, continuous learning, and a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.

About the role

This is a key role for individuals with experience in performing builds, debugging, and installation of automation equipment or industrial machinery. As the lead person on projects, you will work with other Automation Engineers throughout the factory build and test. The role requires strong attention to detail, both mechanical and electrical knowledge, and the ability to work from blueprints. Expectations for safety, quality, craftsmanship, and efficiency are extremely high, as you will lead builds both on our floor and at customer sites.

Responsibilities

• Uphold Safety as the most important goal of the company; support the goal of Zero Accidents.
• Preplan and identify methods to eliminate hazards in daily operations.
• Assemble, install, test, and troubleshoot both mechanical and electrical assemblies.
• Review, interpret, and redline drawings and specifications.
• Interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, pneumatic diagrams, and Bills of Material (BOMs).
• Determine materials required and execute builds in sequence.
• Ensure work on systems/cells complies with build standards and safety codes.
• Use precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, indicators, and torque tools.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of servo systems, VFDs, sensors, safety circuits, and industrial control hardware.
• Experience with robot integration, industrial conveyors, automated assembly systems, or machine tending systems.
• Identify opportunities for system improvements and value-added solutions.
• Coordinate and prepare necessary tools, equipment, and materials in advance to meet project timelines.
• Manage time, tools, and materials efficiently to support the budget.
• Collaborate with internal teams such as mechanical and electrical engineering.
• Work cooperatively with other departments and teams to support project completion.
• Clearly communicate project progress or delays to project managers and/or customers.

Requirements

• High school diploma (or equivalent) required.
• 5+ years of experience in machine building, industrial automation, mechatronics, electrical assembly, machinery installation, or maintenance.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to read mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic schematics.
• Knowledge of tools, equipment, and materials common to the mechanical and electrical trades.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Willingness to travel to installation sites (≤20% travel).

Skills

• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams).
• Ability to effectively present information in small group situations to customers and employees.
• Experience leading build activities and mentoring junior builders.
• Knowledge of Industrial Robots.
• Knowledge of applicable electrical codes, standards, and regulations.

Preferred Certifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• Forklift Certification
• MEWP Certification
• Mechatronics Certification
• Electrical or Industrial Maintenance Certification
• FANUC or equivalent robot training

Physical Requirements

• Time spent in the shop, exposing employees to noise and moving machinery.
• Ability to maintain a consistent workload that may involve significant physical manual labor.
• Consisting of standing, sitting, kneeling; with repetitive use of hands.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, independently.
• Color vision to distinguish wire colors.
• Manual dexterity.

Location: 497 Jessen Lane, Charleston, SC 29492, United States