Automation Engineer

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Execute automation and process improvement projects at manufacturing sites to reduce direct labor content and improve productivity.
• Translate project concepts into practical, scalable automation solutions.
• Lead installation, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation equipment.
• Work closely with GMs and site leadership to understand project requirements and operational challenges.
• Align on project goals, timelines, and success metrics prior to execution.
• Ensure consistent deployment of automation standards across locations.
• Travel to manufacturing facilities as required (minimum 50%, may increase based on project scope and implementation phase).
• Provide hands-on support during project installation and ramp-up phases.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues on-site in real time.
• Recommend new technologies, tools, and process improvements.
• Drive standardization and replication of successful automation solutions across sites
• Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within scope.
• Support long-term sustainability of implemented solutions.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Expertise in Lean tools (5S, VSM, Standard Work, SMED, Kanban, Kaizen).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and coaching abilities.
• Proficiency with data analysis and project management tools.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and lead change without direct authority.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• 3–7 years of experience in industrial automation, manufacturing engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with automation systems (robotics, PLCs, vision systems, conveyors, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in a production environment.
• Experience managing or implementing cross-functional projects.

Desired

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt required; Black Belt preferred).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand and hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; reach with hands/arms; lift and/or lower; push and/or pull; and use hands to finger, handle, feel and/or finely manipulate objects.  The employee must frequently lift/move and/or push/pull up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift/move and/or push/pull up to 50 lbs.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.  Use of vision correction is acceptable, if necessary; however, any vision correction apparatus must meet all safety guidelines for the area of activity.