Automation Engineer

Role Overview

The Automation Engineer plays a key role in driving manufacturing excellence through the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced automation systems. This position leads automation initiatives across production lines and facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing operations.

In addition to technical leadership, the role is responsible for developing automation-related manufacturing processes, building strong business cases, and managing project budgets to ensure cost-effective and sustainable execution.

Let's Talk About Responsibilities:

Automation & Manufacturing Process Development

• Lead the development, deployment, and optimization of automation solutions for manufacturing equipment and production processes.

• Own the manufacturing process development associated with automation implementations.

• Collaborate closely with the Global Automation Centre of Excellence, production, and maintenance teams to identify and prioritize automation opportunities.

• Design, implement, and support PLC, SCADA, HMI, and robotic systems to improve throughput, reliability, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

• Oversee system integration, testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation solutions across manufacturing environments.

Data, Quality & Compliance

• Analyze production and equipment data to identify inefficiencies and recommend automation-driven improvements.

• Ensure all automation systems comply with applicable safety standards, regulatory requirements, and internal quality protocols.

• Support the integration of machine vision, robotics, and functional safety systems into production lines.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including schematics, control logic, manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing.

• Apply lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Business Case Development & Financial Management

• Develop and manage budgets for automation projects, including cost estimation, resource planning, and ongoing financial reporting.

• Conduct ROI and cost-benefit analyses for proposed automation initiatives.

• Ensure automation projects are delivered within approved budgets while identifying opportunities for cost optimization.

• Create and present compelling business cases for new automation projects, covering technical feasibility, financial justification, and strategic alignment.

• Engage cross-functional stakeholders to secure buy-in, approvals, and funding for automation initiatives.

Let's Talk About Qualifications & Experience

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related discipline.

• Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing automation.

• Strong expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Keyence), robotics systems (e.g., Fanuc, Universal Robots), SCADA, and industrial communication networks.

• Proven experience with robotics integration, machine vision systems, and safety solutions (e.g., Pilz).

• Proficiency in SolidWorks for mechanical design and automation system modeling.

• Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.

• Demonstrated experience in budget planning, financial oversight, and business case development.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to lead technical discussions and influence stakeholders.

Preferred

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.

• Functional safety certifications (e.g., TV Functional Safety Engineer).