Senior Automation Engineer

About the role

Syngenta Seeds Field Crops is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Malta, IL to lead the design, development, prototyping, and deployment of end-to-end automation systems that drive efficiency, precision, and scalability within Seeds R&D.

Responsibilities

• System Design & Development: Lead the architectural design and integration of automated systems from concept to production, incorporating PLCs, robotics, and mechanical/electrical components. Use CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to produce detailed 3D models, simulations, and assembly drawings.
• Vision-Guided Automation: Develop and optimize high-speed, high-accuracy pick-and-place systems using machine vision and robotic arms to handle multiple payloads and operating environments.
• Prototyping & Implementation: Build and iterate physical prototypes using rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining). Perform hands-on assembly, testing, and debugging of components, ensuring seamless integration of sensors, actuators, and end-effectors. Coordinate with external vendors for parts fabrication as needed.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with breeders, data scientists, biologists, engineers, and operations teams to solve complex robotics and automation challenges.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Stay current with emerging technologies (e.g., collaborative robots, automation platforms) to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses and tradeoff evaluations to optimize design efficiency and component selection.
• Project Delivery & Governance: Manage project timelines and deliverables using Agile methodologies and engineering best practices.
• Documentation & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive technical reports, SOPs, and presentations to communicate findings and support regulatory submissions or patent filings.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related experience.
• Experience: 7+ years in robotics and automation engineering, with at least 4 years in hands-on prototyping and automation system integration. Proven track record of delivering end-to-end projects in industrial automation or laboratory environments.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in mechanical design using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or CATIA. Experienced with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as ANSYS for stress and structural analysis. Hands-on experience with servo motors, grippers, pneumatic actuators, and integration of pick-and-place robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and collaborative robots (e.g., Universal Robots, KUKA). Skilled in machine vision systems such as OpenCV, HALCON, Keyence, and Cognex VisionPro. Experienced in sensor fusion involving LiDAR, IMUs, and force/torque sensors. Familiar with rapid prototyping platforms such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi, as well as 3D printing. Experienced in PCB design, electronic wiring, breadboarding, and fabrication of custom electronic systems, such as soldering, enclosure design, and microcontroller integration. Expertise in Python, MATLAB, National Instruments LabVIEW, ROS (Robot Operating System), and C/C++. Skilled in PLC programming using Ladder Logic and Structured Text. Proficient in leveraging AI-powered tools like GitHub Copilot to accelerate development, automate engineering tasks, and enhance team productivity. Experienced in applying version control best practices using Git-based systems (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket), such as branching strategies, commit hygiene, CI/CD integration, and team training for repository management and code integrity.

What We Offer

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.