Process Engineer-Automation and Material Handling

Process Engineer- Automation/Material 2026-135

HukariAscendent is a Women-Owned, Small Business specializing in comprehensive engineering and technical support services associated with commercial nuclear power and other Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear activities.

Process Engineer – Automation & Material Handling

Duration: Full Time

Location: Oak Ridge, TN

Summary

The Process Engineer – Automation & Material Handling will design, develop, and support automated and semi-automated material handling solutions within a nuclear manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for integrating automation systems with manufacturing processes, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring safe and compliant operation of automated equipment. The engineer will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and provide technical leadership and mentorship.

Responsibilities

1. Design, develop, and provide ongoing support for automated and semi-automated material handling solutions, including conveyor systems, robotics, automated guided vehicles, gantries, lifts, and transfer mechanisms.
2. Support the integration of automation and material handling solutions with manufacturing processes, utilities, and overall facility infrastructure.
3. Create and maintain system and process documentation such as process flow diagrams, system layouts, equipment specifications, and automation system architectures.
4. Assist with the evaluation, selection, specification, and procurement of automation equipment, material handling hardware, sensors, control components, and associated systems.
5. Work closely with controls, electrical, mechanical, and facilities engineering teams to ensure automation systems are fully integrated and aligned with operational requirements.
6. Support automation development efforts, including sensor selection, control strategy development, data acquisition implementation, and system verification and validation.
7. Perform process evaluations, simulations, and throughput analyses to improve material flow, system capacity, reliability, and safety performance.
8. Support equipment installation, commissioning, and start-up activities for automated and material handling systems.
9. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, maintenance documentation, and troubleshooting guides for automated equipment and systems.
10. Assist with quality assurance activities, including inspections, testing, and documentation reviews, to ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and operational standards.
11. Identify and drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation efficiency, system reliability, and safe operation.
12. Participate in hazard analyses and safety assessments related to automated equipment, robotics, and material handling operations.
13. Provide technical direction and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians supporting automation and material handling systems.
14. Collaborate within cross-functional teams to standardize automation approaches, engineering workflows, and documentation practices.
15. Maintain clear, professional communication and accurate technical documentation across all interactions.
16. Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Required Qualifications

1. A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline from an ABET EAC–accredited program is required.
2. Five or more years of relevant professional experience is preferred; advanced degrees may substitute for a portion of the experience requirement.
3. Required experience working with automation systems and material handling equipment within manufacturing or industrial environments.
4. Experience designing, developing, or supporting automated process systems, including sensors, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control platforms.
5. Demonstrated ability to create, review, and interpret system and process documentation such as layouts, equipment specifications, and flow diagrams.
6. Experience supporting equipment installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting during operations.
7. Working knowledge of applicable safety codes, standards, and regulations related to automation and material handling systems.
8. Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and methods for improving throughput and material flow efficiency.
9. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience with robotics, conveyor systems, automated guided vehicles, automated storage and retrieval systems, or comparable material handling technologies.
2. Experience using 2D and/or 3D engineering and manufacturing software tools.

Location / Work Arrangement

1. This position is fully onsite in Oak Ridge, TN.
2. Full-time, Monday–Friday, 40 hours per week.

Benefits

HukariAscendent offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid time off.

Opportunities with HukariAscendent change frequently. For a complete listing of our current openings, please visit our website at https://www.hukari.com.

HukariAscendent is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to age, disability, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran or military status including disabled veterans and Vietnam era veterans, or other protected status.

HukariAscendent maintains a drug-free workplace.