Automation Vision Engineer

About the role

Work closely with engineering teams to deliver high-performance solutions using Epson SCARA robots and vision systems. Focusing heavily on new installations as well as maintaining existing systems and willing to provide day-to-day production support. Support for manufacturing including internal and external customers by participating in product development, product life cycle management, continuous improvement and VA/VE projects, product and process flow improvements, project management, and corrective and preventive actions. Communicate production and maintenance needs to appropriate departments, as necessary.

Responsibilities

• Configure and program vision systems to support object detection, alignment, and error-proofing within the automation cell.
• Lead the integration and optimization of high-precision vision-guided pick-and-place operations.
• Troubleshoot and fine-tune robotic and vision systems for maximum reliability and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to complete system validation and meet project deadlines.
• Aid in design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems for automated equipment and industrial processes.
• Provide expert-level technical guidance to ensure successful deployment and transition into production.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot PLC, PC, NC, and CNC control systems to ensure uptime and efficiency.
• Support manufacturing by evaluating equipment and processes and designing, developing, and implementing improvements.
• Evaluate process/product quality improvement opportunities and implement solutions.
• Assist with project management for continuous improvement of critical processes to drive process capability.
• Support new product launches from quote to production, ensuring successful launch and long-term production.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers, manufacturing personnel, and customers, providing technical and engineering support.
• Participate in lean manufacturing initiatives by attending events, assisting wherever possible, and following up to ensure gains are maintained.
• Create and conduct Design of Experiments (DOE), perform root cause analysis and process characterization through the use of FMEA's, risk analysis, and data analysis using statistical techniques.
• Affirm customer and supplier product specifications.
• Perform routine maintenance activities on tooling and machinery.
• Continuously research new machinery/methods of production to improve manufacturing processes.
• Drive Kaizen initiatives by working with teams to identify, implement, track, and report.
• Oversee projects assigned to the process engineering team ensuring performance, timing, and cost objectives are met.
• Lead the development and successful execution of capital expenditure (Capex) projects.
• Serve as a liaison reviewing project expectations and communicating implementation plans and status.

Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency with vision systems.
• 5+ years of experience with robotics in an industrial automation environment.
• Strong understanding of machine vision, robotic integration, and automation control systems.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of the final phases of complex automation projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a detail-oriented approach to system performance and reliability.
• Experience in industrial or automotive converting manufacturing desired.
• 2D CAD proficiency required, 3D CAD experience desired.
• Knowledge and experience in controls, PLC programming, process automation desired.
• Project management experience required.
• Leverage Lean Manufacturing experience desired.

Core Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead a team towards a common goal.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical ability.
• Attention to detail and excellent follow-up.
• Willingness to work overtime, as necessary, as workload dictates.
• Excellent time management skills.