Automation Engineer

ATEK Metal Technologies is seeking an Automation Engineer to lead and support industrial automation initiatives in a high-impact foundry environment. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and continuously improving automation systems that drive safety, quality, and productivity across plant operations.

This is a hands-on engineering role with full ownership of automation projects—from concept through startup and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead automation initiatives supporting foundry processes
• Manage automation projects including budgeting, vendor coordination, installation, and startup
• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, and robotic systems
• Use process data to optimize automation performance and reliability
• Support new product launches and ensure robust automation integration
• Ensure automation meets quoted cycle times, quality standards, and safety requirements
• Coordinate with outside integrators and equipment suppliers
• Maintain spare parts strategies and address obsolete systems

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED (technical or engineering background preferred)
• 3 years of experience in a foundry or manufacturing environment
• Hands-on industrial automation experience
• PLC programming and troubleshooting experience
• HMI development and modification experience
• Working knowledge of robotic programming and backups
• Strong organizational, communication, and project execution skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Automation, Electrical, Mechanical, or related)
• Aluminum foundry automation experience
• Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC experience
• PLC integration with robots, databases, or manufacturing systems
• CAD experience for automation concepts or layouts

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to a foundry environment (heat, dust, fumes, noise)
• Occasional desk work for programming and documentation