Automation Projects Engineer

Hunter Douglas

$97K — $131K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Electronics, Automation Engineering, or related field
  • 3+ years in a manufacturing Controls/Automation Engineer role
  • Strong expertise in PLC programming across multiple platforms
  • Familiarity with industrial networks like Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP
  • Hands-on experience with robotics, vision systems, and servo motion control
  • Proficiency in managing multiple projects with defined timelines and budgets
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving abilities

Responsibilities

  • Lead automation initiatives for new production lines and equipment
  • Design, program, and deploy various industrial automation systems
  • Define technical project scopes, specifications, and resource plans
  • Manage multiple automation projects ensuring cost and schedule targets are met
  • Drive vendor selection and oversee design reviews and installations
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams for system integration
  • Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities for manufacturing processes

Benefits

  • Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
  • Company culture prioritizing internal development and professional growth
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k) plan with employer matching
  • Paid parental leave
  • Wellness programs and product discounts
Full Job Description
Position Overview

Automation engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing automated systems and solutions to support new manufacturing or operational initiatives across North America plants. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams-including engineering, production, and IT-to identify automation opportunities, define technical requirements, and ensure seamless integration of equipment and controls into new processes or production lines. Key responsibilities include selecting appropriate technologies, programming PLCs or robotics, managing project timelines, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems meet safety and quality standards. The engineer also plays a critical role in validating performance, supporting startup activities, and driving continuous improvement from concept to handover. Strong analytical, technical, and project management skills are essential, as well as the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and dynamic project environments.

What you'll do
  • Lead automation and controls scope for new equipment, production lines, and manufacturing initiatives.
  • Design, program, and deploy PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, VFDs, and industrial networks.
  • Define project scope, technical specifications, budgets, timelines, and resource plans.
  • Manage multiple automation projects while ensuring delivery against cost, schedule, and performance targets.
  • Drive RFQs, vendor selection, and coordination of design reviews, FATs, SATs, installation, and startup.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, IT, Quality, and Maintenance for system integration.
  • Support machine connectivity, data acquisition, and integration with MES and IT platforms.
  • Identify continuous improvement opportunities to enhance cycle time, OEE, and cost efficiency.
  • All other duties as assigned

Who you are
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Electronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience as a Controls/Automation Engineer in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong expertise in PLC programming (Allen Bradley, Beckhoff, Omron, Siemens).
  • Experience with industrial networks such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and IO-Link.
  • Hands-on knowledge of robotics, vision systems, VFDs, and servo motion control.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver against defined timelines and budgets.
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams and external vendors/integrators.
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Willingness to travel up to 35-40% across US, Mexico, and vendor locations (for meeting workshops & project implementations).
  • Valid passport, driver's license, and ability to travel on short notice as required.

What's in it for you?
  • Annual base salary range: $97,000- $131,000
  • Bonus target range: 20-30%
  • Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
  • A company culture that prioritizes internal development and professional growth
  • Time off with pay
  • 401(k) plan with a degree of employer matching
  • Paid parental leave
  • Wellness programs and product discounts

Please note, all offers presented to candidates are carefully crafted to ensure market competitiveness, equity, and reflect the individual candidate's education, experience, skills and potential.

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