Senior Automation Engineer

Senior Automation Engineer

Location:

Shakopee, Minnesota, United States. This position is onsite five days a week at our Shakopee, MN facility.

In our always‑on world, this role is responsible for designing and building custom automation equipment for Comm Scope’s fiber optic products. The engineer will work closely with manufacturing sites to improve quality, increase capacity, and reduce manufacturing costs while supporting global manufacturing facilities.

• Conduct feasibility studies, cost analyses, and risk assessments for new automation projects.
• Design and propose innovative machine and tooling concepts to improve quality, reduce cycle time, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Generate and present creative ideas to the team, fostering a culture of innovation.
• Deliver new concepts through brainstorming, component research, iterative prototyping, and feasibility testing.
• Develop, build, and test semi‑automated equipment for fiber optics manufacturing.
• Perform hands‑on bench testing and iterative prototyping as a core part of development.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry standards to drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to create and implement standardized work instructions for mechanical design processes.
• Engage directly with manufacturing sites to understand real‑world constraints and identify opportunities for new design concepts.
• Lead the design and development of mechanical systems for automation equipment.
• Create equipment designs that prioritize manufacturability, ease of assembly, and user‑friendly operation.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (electrical, software, controls, manufacturing) to ensure seamless integration of mechanical designs into automation systems.
• Prepare complete design documentation packages, including detailed drawings, BOMs, assembly instructions, and maintenance guidelines.
• Select commercial components (e.g., pneumatics, electric actuators, sensors) based on sound engineering principles.
• Perform hands‑on activities such as assembly, setup, calibration, process development, testing, and equipment qualification.
• Lead and participate in design reviews and feedback sessions with global teams.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Project leadership from design through commissioning.
• Analyze process performance data using tools like Excel or Minitab during equipment development and qualification.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Strong proficiency in Solid Works CAD software.
• Proven experience in custom automated equipment design.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systems.
• Ability to work directly with automation equipment to ensure functionality.
• Ability to travel up to 15% to global production locations for project intake, development, and deployment.
• Unrestricted work authorization (no current or future sponsorship required).

• Experience with PTC Creo.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis.
• Direct experience in manufacturing operations.
• Experience with Solid Works PDM for CAD data management.
• Strong computer skills and adaptability to emerging technologies, including AI.
• Prior experience in new process development and equipment qualifications.

Salary range: $120,000 – $160,000 per year. The candidate will receive a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision plans; life and accidental‑death insurance; a 401(k) plan; and participation in the Company’s Incentive Plan. New employees are eligible for eleven paid holidays in a full calendar year and two weeks of paid vacation (prorated based on start date), as well as other leave options.

Comm Scope is an Equal‑Opportunity Employer, including people with disabilities and veterans. If you need an accommodation for the application or interview process, please submit your request to ta