Senior Automation Design Engineer

Senior Automation Design Engineer Posted on 3/27/2026 Advance NC Engineering SENIO012589 Who We Are: At Ashley, inspiring the love of home is at the heart of everything we do. As the world’s largest manufacturer of home furnishings, we’re more than a business — we’re a family driven by innovation, competitiveness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We persevere through challenges, push beyond the status quo, and constantly seek better ways to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Our solutions-first mindset and dedication to growth are why Ashley remains #1 in our industry. If you’re ready to grow, you’ve come to the right place. With a true “Growth Mindset,” Ashley Furniture invests in developing future leaders and helps every team member learn from the best in the business. Apply today and Build Your Career with Ashley! Overview: The Senior Automation Design Engineer at Ashley Furniture Industries plays a pivotal role in the development, design, and optimization of advanced mechanical automation systems and robotic cells within high-volume manufacturing environments. This position requires expert-level technical capability, strong safety system leadership, and the ability to manage complex projects up to $3MM. The engineer will drive initiatives that improve efficiency, enhance safety, reduce costs, and support scalable production automation solutions across the organization. Responsibilities: Lead mechanical design for automation projects, including robotics cell design, sensor and motor selection, mechanical component integration, and system layout. Develop and optimize designs centered on manufacturability, cost efficiency, reliability, and performance improvement. Utilize advanced SolidWorks skills to produce detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings aligned with manufacturing requirements. Apply Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to validate mechanical system performance and ensure structural robustness. Develop, manage, and maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) and associated engineering documentation to support procurement, fabrication, and production operations. Implement and validate machine safety systems, ensuring compliance with applicable standards including ISO 12100, ANSI B11, and ISO 13849. Use robotics simulation tools such as Fanuc RoboGuide or equivalent for robot path validation, reach analysis, and process simulation. Utilize FlexSim or similar tools for manufacturing layout modeling and scenario-based performance evaluation. Conduct system analysis and optimization using Matlab or equivalent engineering software. Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical engineers, controls/software engineers, manufacturing engineering, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of systems. Manage project timelines, engineering deliverables, and scope for automation projects up to $3MM, maintaining adherence to budget, quality, and safety standards. Participate in design reviews, root-cause analysis, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing production effectiveness and automation reliability. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field. Qualifications required: 7+ years of experience in automation, robotics, or mechanical design engineering. Proficiency in SolidWorks and FEA simulation tools. Experience designing robotic cells and automated machinery. Strong understanding of industrial safety standards (ISO 12100, ANSI B11, ISO 13849). Demonstrated ability to manage engineering projects and deliver results on time and within budget. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Effective communication across engineering and production teams Project management and organizational capability Innovative, detail-oriented, and safety-driven mindset Ability to lead technical efforts and mentor junior engineers Additional Qualifications, preferred: Experience with Fanuc robots or equivalent industrial robotics platforms. Working knowledge of FlexSim, Matlab, and automation system optimization tools. Prior experience in high-volume manufacturing environments. Expertise in GD&T, machine design principles, and mechanical systems integration. Work Environment The work environment is representative of conditions an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. This position involves both office-based design work and time on the production floor, may be exposed to high worker traffic, loud noises, odors, and dust.  Warehouse and production manufacturing environment includes both tempered and ambient areas.    You must be able to lift up to 25-50lbs, other physical requirements may consist of bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, possibly working from various heights, and standing and/or sitting for long periods of time. Work flexible shifts as required.  Understand that overtime and occasional weekends and/or worked holidays will be required based on company needs.  Occasional travel may be required for project coordination and system vendor engagement. Benefits We Offer: Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program Paid Time Off; increases with years of service Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings Professional Development Opportunities Tuition Assistance Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific) 401(k) and Profit Sharing Life Insurance Our Core Values: Honesty & Integrity: Acts with transparency, discretion, and ethical judgment. Trusted to handle sensitive information and provide accurate, unbiased insights. (Dirty Fingernail: Takes full accountability for outcomes, not just tasks. Inspects details, ensures data accuracy, and follows through to completion. Continuous Improvement: Actively seeks better ways to improve templates, tools, and processes. Learns from prior initiatives and embeds lessons into standard work. Growth & Results Focus: Understands how transformation initiatives drive growth, cost reduction, and profitability. Keeps work aligned to enterprise priorities. Culture of Leadership: Leads through influence, reliability, and example. Builds trust across functions and supports leaders at every level. Customer-Centric & Boundaryless: Works across silos for the greater good of the organization. Ensures outputs meet the needs of executives, initiative owners, and teams. Operational Excellence: Demonstrates strong organizational discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to translate ambiguity into clear, executable tools. Interested in learning more about Ashley Furniture’s Community Engagement programs, Environmental Stewardship, or our Core Values, click the links below: Corporate Social Responsibility View Our Corporate Brochure We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provide a drug-free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.