Automation Engineer

This Automation Engineer Position specializes in advanced inspection technologies, including Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), structured light scanning, and digital X-ray systems. This role is part of a cross-functional technical team focused on improving manufacturing efficiency and productivity across all Structural plants.

The position supports and maintains existing automated inspection systems while contributing to the development and implementation of innovative inspection solutions. The engineer applies technical expertise to ensure systems meet performance, cost, and timeline objectives.

Principal Accountabilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and process issues related to automated inspection systems.
• Act as a liaison between internal teams and external partners, including system integrators and equipment manufacturers.
• Communicate troubleshooting methods and recovery procedures to Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data to evaluate system performance and suitability, including capability studies (e.g., Gage R&R, Type 1) in accordance with applicable standards (ISO, NADCAP).
• Coordinate preventive maintenance and calibration activities to ensure systems remain compliant and fully operational.
• Provide technical training and support across teams on inspection technologies (CMM, structured light scanning, X-ray).
• Ensure all systems meet automation safety standards; initiate shutdown and corrective actions when required.
• Independently develop solutions using established engineering methods and practices.
• Lead or support continuous improvement projects and feasibility studies, managing scope, schedule, resources, and budget.
• Maintain and update system documentation using established standards and templates.
• Support flexible work schedules, including off-hours, to maintain 24/7 plant operations when needed.
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Program and support inspection equipment for new and existing applications, including scanning, part validation, and reverse engineering.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to analyze costs and identify cost-reduction opportunities.
• Research, evaluate, and implement new inspection technologies to enhance or replace existing processes.
• Develop specifications, support qualifications, and oversee implementation of new inspection equipment and system upgrades.
• Prepare technical specifications, cost estimates, and justification documentation for capital equipment investments.
• Maintain inspection systems through hardware servicing, software updates, and calibration activities, including coordination with IT. Some basic IT skills are required.
• Develop and maintain scanning and defect detection templates for production programs.
• Design inspection fixtures using CAD tools and support CAD model development using scanning technologies.
• Participate in the R&D projects of assisted defect recognition (ADR) based on structured light scanning and X-ray.
• Perform additional duties as required.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience with structured light inspection systems (e.g., Zeiss ScanBox, Creaform, MetraSCAN) and with CMM operation and troubleshooting (e.g., Zeiss, Wenzel).
• Experience performing measurement system analysis and capability studies (e.g., Gage R&R, correlation studies) to aerospace standards (ISO, NADCAP).
• Strong understanding of GD&T principles and inspection best practices.
• Proficiency in:
• Experience with digital X-ray systems (preferred).
• Ability to work independently and adapt technical procedures to diverse applications.
• TATS certification or ability to obtain.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (preferred).
• Some basic IT skills are required.