Automation Engineer

Position: Staff Automation Engineer
How You'll Help Us Connect the World

As a Staff Mechanical Automation Engineer, you will be part of our Automation Team responsible for designing and building custom automation equipment for manufacturing Comm Scope's fiber optic products. You will work closely with manufacturing sites to design custom manufacturing equipment to improve quality, increase capacity, and reduce manufacturing costs. This position is based in Shakopee, Minnesota, while supporting our global manufacturing facilities.

Join a tight-knit automation team that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

Development

* 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.

Mechanical Design

* 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.

Required Qualifications for Consideration

* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

* 8+ years of relevant engineering experience.

* Expert-level proficiency in Solid Works CAD software.

* Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis.

* 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.

* Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Project).

* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration in a global organization.

* Ability to travel up to 15% to global production locations for project intake, development, and deployment.

* Unrestricted work authorization (no future sponsorship required).

You Will Excite Us If You

* Experience with PTC Creo.

* 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.

The candidate will be rewarded with 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. Candidates starting with the Company will be eligible for eleven paid holidays in a full calendar year, 10 days paid vacation (prorated based on start date), and other leave options.

Salary range: $87,000-$110,000. Commensurate with experience.

What Happens After You Apply

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