Automation Engineer

Job Summary: 

We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support and advance automation initiatives within a high-volume battery manufacturing environment. This individual will play a critical role in the development, integration, commissioning, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems, while also serving as a key contributor during new automation line startup activities at an established production facility.

The ideal candidate will possess strong hands-on experience with industrial automation systems, controls engineering, robotics, PLC programming, and manufacturing process optimization. This role requires a highly collaborative engineer who can work cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, Engineering, and external automation vendors to successfully implement and sustain automated manufacturing solutions.

The individual in this position must possess excellent hands-on ability, insight and awareness directing efforts on equipment reliability, process uptime, yield improvements and cost reduction. This position will work in a cross-functional team reporting to the Manufacturing Manager with direct responsibility for manufacturing engineering efforts within assigned operations.

Essential Functions*:  

• Lead automation projects from concept through implementation, startup, validation, and production support
• Support startup and commissioning of new automated manufacturing lines and equipment within an active production facility
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motion control systems, robotics, and industrial networks
• Partner with operations and maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability, uptime, throughput, and process capability
• Diagnose and resolve complex automation and controls issues in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control narratives, programming documentation, SOPs, and change controls
• Coordinate with external machine builders, integrators, and overseas suppliers during equipment installation and startup
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and production qualification activities
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation efficiency, scrap reduction, cycle time improvement, and labor optimization
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for automated systems
• Assist in development of automation standards and long-term manufacturing technology roadmap
• Train production and maintenance personnel on automated equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Participate in capital project planning, equipment specifications, and vendor evaluations
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English fluently

Education / Training / Skills / Experience: 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related technical discipline
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on industrial automation engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience supporting automated production line startup, commissioning, and integration activities
• Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens preferred)
• Experience with HMIs, SCADA systems, robotics, servo/motion control, and industrial communication protocols
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical drawings
• Experience troubleshooting electrical controls systems in a production environment
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating cross-functionally
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Comfortable working on the manufacturing floor in an industrial environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in battery manufacturing, chemical processing, medical device, electronics manufacturing, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience with vision systems, automated inspection equipment, and data collection systems
• Familiarity with MES, ERP integration, and Industry 4.0 technologies
• Experience with robotic systems such as FANUC, ABB, or Universal Robots
• Knowledge of NFPA, OSHA, and industrial safety standards
• Experience supporting multi-shift manufacturing operations
• Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement experience

Key Competencies

• Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
• Automation Line Startup & Commissioning
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Technical Leadership
• Project Execution
• Manufacturing Process Optimization
• Safety Focused Decision Making

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment supporting battery production operations
• Frequent interaction with production equipment, machinery, and automated systems
• May require occasional off-shift or weekend support during startup activities and critical production events
• PPE required in designated production areas

Nice to Have

• Proficient in spoken and written Mandarin for business and cross‑functional communication

Physical Requirements:

• Role requires occasional standing, walking, sitting, grasping, handling tools or equipment, reaching, climbing stairs, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and clear verbal communication.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.