Automation Engineer

Purpose of the Position:

Provides support for day-to-day manufacturing operations with designing and troubleshooting automation equipment including packaging systems, logic controllers, vision systems, safety devices, automated guided vehicles, and sensors.  Judgment and troubleshooting skills will be required to resolve problems with the various automation systems. The candidate will receive general instructions and directions on routine work but will be expected to often work autonomously.

Key Responsibilities

• Debug, develop, and implement automation solutions, including robotic systems, PLC-based control systems, vision systems, and integrated software applications, to streamline production processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Leverage analytics to understand opportunities to improve manufacturing throughput and process performance.
• Program and configure automation equipment and systems, ensuring seamless integration with existing manufacturing infrastructure and adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Analyze manufacturing data and performance metrics to identify areas for process optimization and efficiency improvement.
• Conduct root cause analysis and troubleshooting of automation-related issues, implementing corrective actions and preventive measures to ensure continuous operation.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external vendors, and contractors to ensure successful implementation of automation solutions within established project parameters.
• Provide regular updates and reports on project status, milestones, and deliverables to stakeholders, facilitating effective communication and decision-making.
• Provide training and technical support to manufacturing personnel on the operation and maintenance of automation equipment and systems.
• Share expertise and best practices in automation technologies with colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development within the organization.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and company policies related to automation and occupational safety.
• Conduct risk assessments and safety reviews of automation systems, implementing safeguards and control measures to mitigate hazards and ensure a safe working environment.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Software Engineering preferred) or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automation and systems troubleshooting
• Experience integrating systems into advanced manufacturing processes

Work Hours

• Standard Hours (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm)    
• Flexible hours may be required to support weekends/evenings operations requirements (including coverage for shift supervisors on 12hr shift rotation as needed).     

Required Skills

• Strong software and systems skills with demonstrated experience in the successful implementation of automation, metrology, and control systems within manufacturing.
• Proficient in PLC programming, c#.net, statistics, and process optimization.
• Strong team player who takes personal ownership for their areas of responsibility.
• Able to effectively work with external machine builders and system integrators for detail design, build and integration of later stages of machine system implementation.
• Capable of executing project assignments with minimal supervision.
• Effective problem solving and decision-making skills, with focus on safety.

Desired Skills

• Knowledgeable of electrical design standards
• Certified in Six Sigma
• Knowledge of the Performance Excellence programs (DMAIC, KT, etc.).