Automation Support Engineer

Overview

Makino is a world leader in metal-cutting and machining technology. Makino enables customers to achieve the highest levels of quality with the fastest time to market. When companies manufacture the parts that matter—across automotive, aerospace, medical, die/mold, and other critical industries worldwide—they do it with Makino.

The Automation Support Engineer plays a critical role in the installation, startup, and support of Makino automated machining systems. These systems integrate robotics, gantry systems, vision and marking technologies, conveyors, and cell controllers to automate material flow through Makino machining centers.

This role is highly hands-on and customer-facing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and controls expertise. The Automation Support Engineer will lead on-site installations, program and commission robotic systems, troubleshoot complex automation issues, and collaborate closely with Makino engineering teams to deliver custom automation solutions.

• Install, commission, debug, and support Makino-developed and standard automated machining systems at Makino Mason and at customer sites
• Perform mechanical and electrical installation of automation components including:
• Industrial robots and end-of-arm tooling (grippers)
• Cell controllers and interconnection cabling
• Safety systems and fencing
• Conveyors and material handling systems
• Prepare customer sites for automation installations by:
• Marking equipment layouts on the plant floor
• Coordinating and directing plant personnel and rigging teams
• Program and teach robots (Fanuc and/or ABB) to service Makino machining centers and ancillary equipment
• Install, test, and support Makino-supplied third-party integrated equipment such as:
• Test stands
• Parts washers
• Other automation support equipment
• Support the installation and integration of custom and special options for Makino machining centers, often unique, customer-defined solutions
• Perform testing and debugging of new and updated machine and automation control software at Makino facilities and customer locations
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, robotic, and PLC-based issues during startup and production support
• Provide weekly status reporting on installation progress and completed tasks
• Communicate findings and recommend design or process improvements based on field experience
• Collaborate with Makino engineering teams to resolve complex automation and controls challenges

• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude with the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics
• Proven troubleshooting skills in industrial automation environments
• Experience programming and modifying robotic systems (Fanuc and/or ABB required)
• Ability to read, understand, and modify PLC ladder logic (Allen-Bradley, Omron, and/or Mitsubishi)
• Experience integrating automation with CNC machining centers or similar industrial equipment
• Ability to effectively communicate technical issues with engineering and customer teams
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, etc.)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Willingness to travel extensively (approximately 75–90%), primarily to customer sites, with occasional international travel

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology or equivalent trade school experience
• Hands on experience with industrial automation systems
• Experience in robotics, CNC integration, or advanced manufacturing environments strongly preferred