Sr Automation Engineer (Mechanical)

The Automation Engineer will own end-to-end development and sustaining of manufacturing and assembly/test automation, from concept and feasibility through installation, commissioning, and validated release to production. This role combines hands-on electromechanical engineering with manufacturing engineering principles to optimize yield, performance, and availability while ensuring compliance with regulated manufacturing requirements. You will lead equipment and test method design and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ, PPQ, FAT/SAT, software V&V), partner closely with R&D, Quality, Operations, IT, and external vendors/CMs, and drive continuous improvement using data, SPC, and Six Sigma tools. You will also provide technical training and transfer process knowledge to scale production across sites.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Own installation, commissioning, and validation of new manufacturing and assembly/test automation equipment, including robotics, tooling, and fixtures.
• Develop equipment/system architecture and integrate automation workflows; set up software, recipes, machine parameters, and vision systems for production lines.
• Create and execute validation deliverables and reports, including FAT/SAT and equipment/process qualifications (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new or modified equipment.
• Provide sustaining engineering support to meet or exceed core Operations KPIs (yield, performance, availability, scrap), using SPC and daily production data to drive actions.
• Lead structured problem solving and root-cause investigations; identify process risks, assess impact, and implement mitigations.
• Manage equipment lifecycle activities including preventive maintenance strategy, critical spares, and end-of-life/obsolescence planning.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, Global Engineering, and automation houses to ensure scalable, robust designs and smooth tech transfer.
• Develop and maintain project plans/timelines; communicate status to leadership; train associates, technicians, and engineers and create clear work instructions. 

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering with 7–10 years of relevant professional experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to interpret complex technical data and translate findings into actionable improvements.
• Architectural understanding of automation software and controls concepts (e.g., PLC/HMI interfaces), machine vision systems, and recipe/parameter management.
• Working knowledge of mechanical engineering design for automated systems using Solidworks.
• Excellent documentation skills for regulated environments, including equipment requirements, validation protocols, test plans, and reports.
• Effective communicator and collaborator with cross-functional teams and external partners; able to align stakeholders and drive decisions.
• Self-directed and organized; able to manage multiple priorities and timelines in a fast-paced, ambiguity-tolerant environment.