Principal Automation Engineer - Industrial Robotics; Onsite

Position Overview

Principal Automation Engineer – Cedar Rapids, IA. This onsite role supports automation strategy and execution across manufacturing operations, applying advanced engineering knowledge to develop, implement, and support automation solutions that improve performance, efficiency, and digital connectivity.

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

• Degree in a STEM field (or equivalent experience) with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with a minimum of 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 a major platform (e.g., FANUC).
• Experience developing with 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 a Lifetime Income Strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Student loan repayment program.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional pet, home, and auto insurance.
• Additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal,  protection.
• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits including Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning.
• Autism Benefit, Employee Assistance Plan with counseling sessions.
• Healthy You incentives, wellness rewards program.
• Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits, Bright Horizons child and elder care services.
• Teliac Health experts and second opinion program.

Collider Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.