Automation Engineer

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S., now or in the future, for this opening.

Who will you be working with?

Our Wabtec Young Touchstone team combines knowledge of our customers’ product platforms/processes with industry expertise to deliver unparalleled product solutions. Here you’ll interact daily with all support team functions to solve problems and will partner with other key stakeholders to support our customers and their operations.

How will you make a difference?

As a member of the Manufacturing Engineering group, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and supporting automation solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, safety, and cost performance across both the Jackson and Lexington plants. This role will work closely with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to integrate new automation systems, optimize existing equipment, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The position will report directly to the Manufacturing Engineering Leader of the business unit.

What do we want to know about you?

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or similar role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar) and HMI development.
• Experience with robotics, motion control, and vision inspection systems.
• Proficient in reading and developing electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills with a hands‑on approach.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities across two plant locations.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and TPM principles preferred.

What will your typical day look like?

• Design, develop, and implement automation systems (robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, vision systems, etc.) to support manufacturing operations.
• Provide hands‑on troubleshooting, programming, and maintenance support for automated equipment.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to identify automation opportunities that reduce cost, improve throughput, and enhance safety.
• Support capital projects by specifying, sourcing, and commissioning new automated equipment.
• Maintain accurate documentation of automation systems including electrical schematics, software programs, and operational manuals.
• Train maintenance and production staff on operation and troubleshooting of automated systems.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to increase equipment uptime, reliability, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with vendors and integrators for automation upgrades and new system implementation.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and company policies.
• Provide automation support for both Jackson and Lexington facilities, requiring travel between sites up to 40% of time.

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Industries:
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing and Railroad Equipment Manufacturing

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)