Automation Engineer - Packaging

About the Role

The Automation Engineer - Packaging will lead the design and lifecycle performance of secondary packaging machinery, including cartoning machines, robotic case packers, and robotic palletizing systems. This role combines engineering expertise, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver high-performance, modular, manufacturable, and scalable automation solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize secondary packaging equipment using CAD, simulation, and engineering tools, while developing standardized, modular solutions that meet customer requirements.
• Partner with Controls and Electrical Engineering to integrate robotics, vision systems, and machine synchronization. Support demos, FAT, SAT, and startups to ensure throughput, reliability, and line performance.
• Provide technical support during the sales process, evaluate customer specifications, and lead engineering scope from concept through implementation. Collaborate with Sales, Project Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Service, vendors, and customers.
• Maintain engineering documentation and revision control while ensuring designs meet customer, company, safety, and regulatory requirements. Support design reviews, troubleshooting, and corrective actions.
• Drive improvements in machine performance, manufacturability, serviceability, changeover efficiency, and standardization. Explore emerging technologies including robotics, vision systems, AI, and flexible automation.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship, lead design reviews and knowledge sharing, and promote engineering excellence and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate design.
• Strong customer presence and ability to present to large teams.
• Experience negotiating contracts and managing customer-provided equipment specification documents.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office software, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, PDM, project, and business management systems.
• Innovative and curiosity-based approach to problem-solving.

Desired Skills

• Forward-thinking attitude with the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and market demands.
• Preferred 10 years of design experience in automation including robotics and machine vision, packaging machinery experience.
• Adept at balancing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring productivity while maintaining project quality.
• Familiar with applicable Safety Standards such as ISO 10218-2 or ANSI R15.06.
• Experience mentoring new or young engineers.
• Experience supporting technical sales, applications engineering, or customer-facing engineering.
• Ability to travel to customers or vendor sites, including internationally as needed. Up to 25% travel.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and performance-based incentives
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options
• Paid time off, holidays, and flexible scheduling
• Profit sharing
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work environment
• Onsite fitness center
• Event Space free for employee’s personal use
• Employee rewards & discounts

Viking Masek does not sponsor applicants for U.S. work authorization.