Key skills
ERPSAPLeadershipProject ManagementCommunication
About this role
Role Overview
- Automation system design and implementation
- Design, specify, and implement automated manufacturing systems including robotic welding cells, part handling automation, and auxiliary equipment.
- Lead automation projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and production handoff.
- Support robot programming, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), fixturing concepts, and cell safety design.
- Coordinate with OEMs, integrators, and internal teams to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements.
- PLC programming and controls integration: Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems using platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or similar.
- Integrate PLCs with robots, weld power supplies, safety systems, vision systems, and automated material handling equipment.
- Manage equipment projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and handoff to production.
- Develop and support HMI interfaces for operators and maintenance personnel, including alarms, diagnostics, and recipe management.
- Implement standardized control architectures, naming conventions, alarm strategies, and documentation.
- Lead the technical design and deployment of robotic welding systems, including MIG, TIG, and laser welding applications.
- Establish standard robotic cell architectures, tooling concepts, and programming best practices to improve repeatability and uptime.
- Serve as a technical mentor and escalation point for plant-based automation engineers, manufacturing engineers, and technicians.
- Support integration of metal fabrication and automation software with upstream enterprise systems, including SAP.
- Define standards for machine connectivity, job routing, recipe management, and production data collection.
- Communicate project status, risks, and technical decisions effectively to engineering leadership and plant stakeholders.
- Collaborate with IT and controls teams to ensure secure, reliable communication using industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, etc.).
- Identify and implement automation-driven improvements that increase throughput, reduce labor, improve ergonomics, and enhance safety.
- Troubleshoot complex automation issues involving PLC logic, robots, sensors, drives, and communication networks.
- Ensure automation systems comply with applicable machine and electrical safety standards, including risk assessments, guarding, interlocks, and safety PLCs.
Requirements
- Minimum 5–10 years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or manufacturing engineering with a strong automation focus.
- Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Omron, or similar).
- Experience integrating PLCs with robots, HMIs, sensors, VFDs, safety systems, and industrial networks.
- Hands-on experience supporting manufacturing environments involving metals, fabricated components, or complex assemblies.
- Strong ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-site manufacturing environment with competing priorities.
- Familiarity with industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar).
- Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement tools, and structured problem-solving.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.
- Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
- Working knowledge of 2D/3D CAD and manufacturing layouts.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, or related engineering field.
- PLC, robotics, or machine safety certifications are a plus.
Tech Stack
- ERP
Benefits
- Generous and flexible paid time off including paid personal time off, caregiver, parental, and volunteer leave
- Competitive health insurance plans and 401(k) match, with benefits starting day one
- Competitive and performance-based compensation packages and bonus plans
- Educational assistance, leadership development programs, and recognition programs