Principal Automation Engineer - Industrial Robotics; Onsite

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-109 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 109

Date Posted:

Country:
United States of America

Position Role Type:
Onsite

U.S. Citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized.

Security Clearance:
None/Not Required

In this role, you will contribute to automation strategy and execution across manufacturing operations by applying advanced engineering knowledge to develop, implement, and support automation solutions. You will support the creation and refinement of automation system designs and assist in deploying solutions that improve manufacturing performance, efficiency, and digital connectivity. This role blends strong technical capability with effective project execution and cross‑functional collaboration.

You will participate in initiatives from early concept through production deployment, including identifying and scoping opportunities, developing and testing solutions in lab environments, and executing tasks related to schedules, documentation, and implementation. The ideal candidate brings solid experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, and SCADA/MES systems, along with demonstrated success contributing to complex automation projects that require hands‑on technical work and coordination with cross‑functional teams.

• Apply automation engineering knowledge and collaborate with other organizations to support improvements in manufacturing operations.
• Execute assigned phases of project activities from concept development through deployment and operational handoff.
• Work effectively across a matrixed organization to coordinate priorities, exchange technical information, and support implementation of automation and digital manufacturing initiatives.
• Provide technical contributions to the development of automation architectures and system designs under established guidelines.
• Conduct safety reviews and implement required controls in alignment with defined safety processes.
• Plan, organize, and manage moderately sized automation projects or work streams.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support effective deployment into live production environments.
• Prioritize assigned tasks to ensure work is completed effectively and deadlines are met.
• Maintain current knowledge of control system and Industry 4.0 technologies and incorporate relevant advancements into project recommendations.
• Provide hands-won programming and troubleshooting support for automated control systems and robots as needed for assigned projects.
• Coach junior engineers or technicians on automation best practices and system operation.
• Communicate effectively with operations and engineering stakeholders regarding project status, technical challenges, and implementation plans.
• Support the development of sustainment materials and documentation to ensure stable long‑term operation of deployed automation systems.
• Assist in troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and performance improvements for existing automation systems.

• Degree in STEM or equivalent with minimum 8 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with minimum 5 years of experience.
• Hands‑on industrial robotics experience.
• Experience implementing and/or supporting PLC, SCADA, MES, and/or Industrial IoT (IIoT) solutions in a manufacturing environment.

• Formal training on at least one major platform (e.g., FANUC).
• Experience developing in Ignition.
• Experience in automation architecture and system design.
• Business acumen and ability to manage project budgets.
• Ability to work across the organization vertically and horizontally.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
• Generous 401(k) plan with employer matching and Lifetime Income Strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Student loan repayment program.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional coverages: pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal,  protection.
• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits, Ovia Health, fertility, and…