The Role

As an Automation Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy automation systems that scale production of advanced defense hardware. You will play a critical role in building and optimizing manufacturing lines, integrating robotics and control systems, and driving efficiency across production processes. This role requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about building reliable, high-performance manufacturing systems from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement automated manufacturing systems including robotics, PLCs, conveyors, and vision systems.
• Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systems.
• Analyze production workflows to identify automation opportunities and improve throughput, quality, and cost efficiency.
• Support equipment commissioning, validation, and ramp-up of manufacturing processes.
• Diagnose equipment failures, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and quality engineering teams.
• Establish and maintain documentation for automation systems, including schematics, code, and operating procedures.
• Manage and continuously update all equipment-related programs and system configurations, ensuring proper version control and documentation of changes. This spans across multiple domains including hardware, electrical systems, safety controls, pneumatics, networking, PLCs, HMIs, robotics, SCADA, and MES platforms.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing automation or industrial engineering
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and HMI development.
• Experience with robotics integration and industrial automation systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a production environment.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in high-mix, low-volume or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of machine vision systems and automated inspection.
• Experience with CAD tools and mechanical system integration.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Background in aerospace, defense, or other regulated industries.
• Experience with structured text programming per IEC 61131-3
• Familiarity with ISO 13849, or IEC 61508 safety standards
• Knowledge of UL508A, NFPA 70, NFPA 79 standards
• Experience with industrial protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, and OPC UA
• Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT 3, Beckhoff TwinCAT Automation Interface (TE1000), and/or SIEMENS TIA Portal (SIMATIC STEP 7 & WinCC)

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!