Sr. Automation Engineer

How You Will Make An Impact (Job Summary)

SPX is a diverse team of unique individuals who all make an impact. As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a critical role in defining, developing, and deploying automation strategies across multiple manufacturing facilities that improve safety, quality, and productivity. This role will focus on robotic welding cells, automated material handling systems (AGVs, AMRs, AGCs), and the integration of metal fabrication equipment with enterprise systems such as SAP.

What You Can Expect In This Role (Job Responsibilities)

• Automation system design and implementation
• Design, specify, and implement automated manufacturing systems including robotic welding cells, part handling automation, and auxiliary equipment
• Lead automation projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and production handoff
• Support robot programming, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), fixturing concepts, and cell safety design
• Cook with OEMs, integrators, and internal teams to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements
• PLC programming and controls integration: Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems using platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or similar
• Integrate PLCs with robots, weld power supplies, safety systems, vision systems, and automated material handling equipment
• Manage equipment projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and handoff to production
• Develop and support HMI interfaces for operators and maintenance personnel, including alarms, diagnostics, and recipe management
• Implement standardized control architectures, naming conventions, alarm strategies, and documentation
• Collaborate with IT and controls teams to ensure secure, reliable communication using industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, etc.)
• Continuous improvement, safety, and support
• Identify and implement automation-driven improvements that increase throughput, reduce labor, improve ergonomics, and enhance safety
• Troubleshoot complex automation issues involving PLC logic, robots, sensors, drives, and communication networks
• Ensure automation systems comply with applicable machine and electrical safety standards, including risk assessments, guarding, interlocks, and safety PLCs

What we are looking for (Experience, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education)

• Required Experience: Minimum 5–10 years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or manufacturing engineering with a strong automation focus
• Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Omron, or similar)
• Experience integrating PLCs with robots, HMIs, sensors, VFDs, safety systems, and industrial networks
• Hands-on experience supporting manufacturing environments involving metals, fabricated components, or complex assemblies

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, or related engineering field
• PLC, robotics, or machine safety certifications are a plus