Automation Engineer

Summary
The Automation Engineer at Metal-Era is responsible for supporting the development and installation of new manufacturing equipment/processes, supporting and implementing continuous improvement activities, and resolving equipment/process performance issues.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management deems necessary. Candidates must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty listed, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Design and implement automated systems for use in various metal fabrication processes
• Create detailed road maps to guide full and partial automation projects from conception to final implementation. Includes development of a Value Analysis and ROI calculations as well as creation of layouts for automation components to optimize production processes.
• Collaborate with supplier engineering teams to integrate automated solutions seamlessly
• Develop IQ (installation qualification), OQ (operational qualification) and PQ (performance qualification) plans for new production equipment and execute thorough testing protocols to validate system functionality
• Continuously evaluate and update automation systems for efficiency, including the retrofit of automation on current mechanical systems where appropriate
• Document processes and system configurations, enabling easier future modifications
• Lead collaborative discussions between leadership and key stakeholders to determine automation capabilities and goals
• Support existing automation technology with component and process upgrades
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues in existing automation setups and support troubleshooting of non-automated equipment as necessary.
• Provide support to manufacturing personnel to troubleshoot production problems and minimize downtime
• Attend training sessions to maintain understanding of best practices in Automation Engineering
• Document procedures, processes and best practices and provide training to all levels of the organization as needed, includes training stakeholders on how to troubleshoot automation systems.
• Provide support to quality and manufacturing personnel to investigate non-conforming material issues
• Support the new product development process to ensure safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are met
• Act as a technical resource for internal and external customers and suppliers

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications:
The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of this position. Metal-Era will always consider candidates with an equivalent combination of related experience and education.

• Degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a relevant technical field
• Experience with the design and implementation of automated systems, especially as related to manufacturing
• Effective problem solving, judgment, and independent thinking skills for troubleshooting, repair, and recognition of acceptable or unacceptable product quality
• Must have strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with other functional areas such as Manufacturing Engineering, Design Engineering, Purchasing and Inventory Control, Scheduling, and Shipping/Receiving
• Able to handle frequent interruptions, meet tight deadlines, and handle conflict in an effective manner
• Advanced computer proficiency including experience with Microsoft Office products and Auto Cad
• Knowledge or experience in manufacturing philosophy and techniques such as: cellular manufacturing, problem solving, 5S, pull systems, mistake proofing, SMED, Kaizen, change management and ergonomics preferred

Physical Demands

• In a standard workday, this person will be required to sit 40%, stand 25%, walk 25%, squat or kneel, twist, and drive/travel 10%.
• Will lift from 1 to 35 pounds. Lifting may include miscellaneous materials if required.
• Fine manipulation is needed for PC work and use of other office equipment.
• Visual requirements include ability to read and follow directions.
• This person may come in contact with office hazards. Will be required to wear personal protective equipment in posted areas of the plant, including safety glasses, ear plugs, and safety shoes.
• Total awareness of the plant environment as it pertains to the safety of other employees, operation of equipment, handling of equipment/materials, and visitors required.