Automation Engineer I
This role requires a hands-on engineer driven by curiosity and self-initiated problem-solving, with experience building and troubleshooting independent technical projects spanning robotics, electronics, software and controls. Adapts quickly to new tools and technologies, applies cross-disciplinary thinking from robotics, electronics, software and controls while being comfortable solving problems without an established playbook. Furthermore, one should be able to explain complex technical work to diverse audiences.
You'll use existing tools alongside newer, emerging technology to solve problems and integrate solutions into real manufacturing lines and equipment. Some of what you build will touch traditional automation and some of it won't fit neatly into any existing category; that's expected.
You might be a fit if...- You have a project (school, personal, hobby, competition, etc) that you're still a little too excited to talk about
- You've built something nobody asked you to build, just to see if you could
- You've gone down a technical rabbit hole that had nothing to do with an assignment or a job
- You've combined ideas from different fields to solve a problem, because you didn't know, or care, that they were "supposed" to stay separate
- You're comfortable starting on a problem that doesn't have a clear playbook yet, rather than waiting for someone to hand you the steps
- You enjoy explaining something you built to someone with zero context, and somehow getting them to care
Essential FunctionsHow You'll Stand Out- Self-directed builder with a track record of designing and completing independent technical projects
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systems independently, diagnosing root-cause issues beyond assigned scope
- Experience integrating concepts across multiple disciplines (e.g., robotics, electronics, software, controls) to develop novel solutions
- Comfortable operating in ambiguous, undefined problem spaces without established procedures or guidance
- Skilled at communicating technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences, translating complex systems into accessible explanations
- Proven initiative and intrinsic motivation, evidenced by self-started projects, competitions, or hobby builds
Automation Support and Implementation- Own programming, testing, and maintaining PLC, HMI, and control systems
- Support automation project execution under the direction of senior engineers
- Participate in commissioning and validation of new equipment and upgrades
Troubleshooting and Maintenance- Perform structured troubleshooting using established diagnostic and root-cause techniques
- Escalate issues with clear data, observations, and hypotheses, not just symptoms
- Apply repeatable troubleshooting methods
- Work with maintenance and production teams to resolve technical issues
- Document changes and updates to control systems
Skill Development and Engineering Judgement- Develop the ability to assess multiple solution options and understand associated risks
- Learn when decisions can be made independently versus when escalation is required
- Document assumptions and learning outcomes from projects and failures
Data Collection and Process Improvement- Collect and validate operational data to support automation improvements, including the use of AI-assisted analytics, visualization, or alerting tools where applicable
- Assist with implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency
Collaboration and Compliance- Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to align automation activities with production needs
Ensure compliance with safety standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements
- Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without prior notice.
QualificationsMinimum Required- 0-2 years of experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
- Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
- Basic programming (Python, C++, etc.)
- Foundational knowledge of PLCs, control systems, and industrial automation.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- List if any travel is required using percentage of time:
Preferred- 2 Years- Experience in Field or similar manufacturing environment
- 2 Years - Experience working in Position
- 2 Years - Experience managing people/projects
- Experience with Sensors, edge devices, or embedded systems
- Experiencing with hardware prototyping
- Internship or co-op experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
- Exposure to data analytics tools, scripting, or AI-assisted engineering platforms
- Exposure to Rockwell, Siemens, or similar PLC platforms.
- Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMIs, and industrial networks.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
*experience may include a combination of work experience and education
- Minimum Required:
- Bachelor's Degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
- Preferred:
- Master's Degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
Certification/License: - Required: N/A
- Preferred: N/A
Typical Compensation RangePay Rate Type: Salary
$82,011.54 - $118,916.74 / Yearly
BenefitsOur Total Rewards package is thoughtfully designed to support both you and your family:
Regular full-time team members are offered a comprehensive benefits package, while part-time, intern, and seasonal team members are offered a limited benefits package.
- Paid Time Off for holidays, sick time, and vacation time
- Paid parental and caregiver leaves
- Medical, including virtual care options
- Dental
- Vision
- 401(k) with company match
- Health Savings Account with company match
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Expanded mental wellbeing benefits including free counseling sessions for all team members and household family members
- Family Building Benefits including enhanced fertility benefits for IVF and fertility preservation plus adoption, surrogacy, and Doula reimbursements
- Income protection including Life and AD&D, short and long-term disability, critical illness and an accident plan
- Special discount programs including pet plans, pre-paid legal services, identity theft, car rental, airport parking, etc.
- Tuition reimbursement, college savings plan and scholarship opportunities
- And more!
https://careers.niagarawater.com/us/en/benefits
