Lead Automation Engineer

sign, programming, and commissioning of industrial and collaborative robots (ABB, Fanuc, UR, KUKA) including integration with vision systems, drives, and HMIs.

• Translate business and process needs into control strategies, functional design specifications, and acceptance criteria.

• Lead automation projects from concept to handover-scope, schedule, budget, risk management, and resource coordination.

• Manage vendors, system integrators, and contractors through FAT/SAT planning, execution, and on-time handover.

• Use offline programming and simulation tools (e.g., ABB RobotStudio, FANUC ROBOGUIDE) for cell design and cycle-time optimization.

• Design, program, and commission Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 systems (IEC 61131-3 ladder, structured text, function block), including motion, EtherCAT I/O, and TwinSAFE.

• Conduct system validation and qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and ensure documentation accuracy.

• Implement process control plans, PFMEA, and risk assessments for new automated systems.

• Monitor automation performance using key metrics (OEE, FPY, downtime) and drive root cause analysis and corrective actions.

• Develop sustainment programs for preventive maintenance, software version control, and operator competency.

• Partner with EHS, Quality, Maintenance, and IT to ensure system safety, cybersecurity, and compliance with Life Saving Rules.

• Mentor engineers and technicians in automation and robotics best practices.

• Support continuous improvement and Lean initiatives to enhance flow, safety, and process stability.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Controls, Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering.

• Minimum 5+ years of experience delivering industrial automation and robotics projects from concept to commissioning.

• Proven hands-on experience with industrial robot programming (ABB, Fanuc, UR, or KUKA).

• Strong knowledge of PLCs and control systems, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 (EtherCAT, motion, TwinSAFE).

• Demonstrated ability to manage automation projects, vendors, and FAT/SAT activities.

• Experience in process industrialization, qualification, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ).

• Experience integrating vision systems, motion control, and safety interlocks.

• Familiarity with programming languages (Python, C++, or Java) for data interfaces or simulation.

• Knowledge of CAD software (SolidWorks, Siemens NX) for tooling and layout design.

Desired Characteristics

• Strong problem-solving and system integration skills.

• Excellent project management and communication abilities.

• Ability to work cross-functionally and drive initiatives to completion.

• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: No