Automation Engineer​/Senior Technician

Overview

Automation Engineer / Senior Technician — Onsite, Ansonia, CT

Westfall Technik is a global company providing innovative plastics manufacturing solutions to healthcare, consumer package goods, and light industrial markets. This role focuses on the end-to-end lifecycle of automation systems, combining engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing to support manufacturing operations.

• Design automated machinery and components using 3D CAD software (Solid Works preferred; experience in PTC Creo and AutoCAD is a plus).
• Read and interpret mechanical prints, electrical schematics, and pneumatic diagrams.
• Specify and source components, manage BOMs, and communicate with vendors to ensure design feasibility and cost efficiency.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including setup sheets, process documentation, and operation manuals.
• Estimate costs and timelines for new automation programs and participate in review and approval meetings.
• Assemble, wire, and plumb mechanical and electrical systems based on engineering designs and schematics.
• Use hand tools, shop tools, and fabrication equipment to modify or build parts as needed.
• Conduct preliminary testing of built machines, including leak testing, power-up tests, sensor verification, and safety checks.
• Redline prints and provide feedback to engineering to improve design for manufacturability and assembly.
• Support software/hardware integration and assist with final programming stages.
• Participate in all stages of validation and acceptance testing (IAT, FAT, SAT).
• Implement machinery on the production floor and establish initial process settings and control parameters.
• Maintain deployed automation systems, provide troubleshooting support, and propose long-term solutions to recurring issues.
• Provide training to technicians and operators on system use and maintenance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Quality, Maintenance) throughout the automation lifecycle.
• Coordinate new product sample builds and review for manufacturability.
• Track project timelines and milestones; proactively manage delays or resource requirements.
• Support efforts to keep automation program expenses within budget.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing downtime, enhancing productivity, and improving system safety.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following internal and OSHA safety procedures.
• Offer design improvement suggestions based on building and test observations.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of combined experience in automation design, assembly, machine building, and testing.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment with both design and hands-on fabrication required.
• Proficient in Solid Works; working knowledge of PTC Creo and AutoCAD is an advantage.
• Ability to read and create electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Familiar with PLCs, sensors, pneumatics, control panels, and industrial automation systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, with proficiency in using shop tools and assembly techniques.
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and basic CAD operations.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Able to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities and minimal supervision.
• Effective communication skills for cross-functional coordination.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.

The work environment is typically an office within a manufacturing facility with low to moderate noise levels. Additional notes:

• Ability to work well with others, one on one, remotely, via video and phone.
• Ability to work independently.

Westfall-Technik is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, or related characteristics.