Automation Engineer

Our client is seeking high‑impact Automation & Controls Engineers to design, develop, and own advanced manufacturing automation systems from concept through full production handoff. This role is for engineers who thrive in fast‑paced environments, take ownership of complex systems, and are hands‑on through every phase—from factory ideation and machine commissioning to proof of rate capability and operational handoff.

You will play a critical role in scaling manufacturing processes that directly support launch, spacecraft, and propulsion programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects end‑to‑end, including:
• Initial factory and machine concept development
• Detailed controls and electrical design
• Machine build, commissioning, and debug
• Proof of rate capability and production readiness
• Handoff to manufacturing operations and maintenance teams
• Design, write, and maintain structured PLC code for complex manufacturing systems
• Develop safe, reliable automation solutions compliant with industrial safety standards and electrical codes
• Create simple, intuitive HMI interfaces optimized for operators and maintenance technicians
• Troubleshoot and optimize automation systems to improve throughput, reliability, and uptime
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with mechanical design, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams
• Support continuous improvement efforts across production lines and factory systems

Basic Qualifications

• 2–8+ years of experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing systems engineering
• Proven ability to lead automation projects from concept through production handoff
• Strong experience programming PLCs (structured, maintainable code for manufacturing environments)
• Hands‑on experience with controls, electrical, and automation hardware
• Experience designing automation systems that comply with industrial safety and electrical codes
• Ability to work directly on the factory floor commissioning and debugging equipment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high‑volume or high‑reliability manufacturing environments
• Strong HMI development experience focused on usability and clarity
• Familiarity with motion control, robotics, sensors, vision systems, and industrial networks
• Ability to balance speed of execution with long‑term system robustness
• Comfortable operating in fast‑changing, ambiguous environments