Sr. Automation Engineer - CT

• Base Pay $90,000.00 - $ / Year
• Relocation Expense Covered No
• Employee Type FT Exempt
• Required Degree 4 Year Degree
• Manage Others No

PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for a
Automation Engineer
to join our dynamic team.

At PTA Plastics, we’re more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device, defense, homeland security, and technology sectors, constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a stake in our success, creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation thrives.

The Senior Automation Engineer leads the development, optimization, and strategic advancement of automation systems to improve the efficiency, scalability, and performance of manufacturing operations. This role serves as a technical leader, driving innovation, mentoring team members, and partnering cross-functionally to implement best-in-class automation solutions.

$90,000-$115,000 annually

The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for leading and enhancing fabrication, manufacturing, and assembly processes, including but not limited to:

• Lead the development, execution of advanced manufacturing and assembly strategies across product lines.
• Serve as a technical expert and primary point of contact for automation systems, robotics, and process integration.
• Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Tooling, and Quality to define scalable, robust processes for current and future products.
• Drive root cause analysis and resolution of complex production issues; implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Lead the introduction and validation of new products, equipment, and automation systems into manufacturing.
• Proactively identify and execute continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reduce cost, and improve quality.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for automation performance, downtime, and process capability.
• Lead capital equipment justification, specification, and implementation efforts.
• Develop and standardize best practices for automation design, programming, and integration.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.

• Lead mold samplings and ensure comprehensive documentation of:
  • Work instructions (including packaging, fixtures, EOAT, with visual aids as needed)
  • Tooling and process improvements required to meet performance standards
• Design and optimize workstation layouts, automation cells, and product flow for molding and finishing operations.
• Oversee creation, validation, and continuous improvement of job books and manufacturing documentation.
• Evaluate and improve equipment capability, reliability, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Lead MRB activities and support resolution of nonconforming product through structured problem-solving.
• Own and drive Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to closure.
• Provide leadership in tool design reviews, launch activities, and new product development initiatives.
• Manage complex automation and tooling projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and performance targets are met.
• Collaborate with suppliers and subcontractors to improve automation performance, delivery, and quality.
• Support quoting and cost estimation activities with advanced process and automation insights.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing efforts across the organization.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related field required.
• Master’s degree in Engineering or related field preferred.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in automation, robotics, or manufacturing engineering.
• Minimum 7–10+ years of experience in automation, manufacturing engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven experience leading automation projects and implementing advanced manufacturing solutions.