Senior Automation Engineer

Position Summary

The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and modification of automation technology to support the global Automation strategy, along with automation projects including but not limited to new equipment and automation initiatives. A broad knowledge of machine design principles, control systems (electronic, pneumatic, etc.), robotics, and integration techniques are required. Key responsibilities include manufacturing, automation, control system design, and programming of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems, and integrating solutions into production equipment using and elevating standard practices and methods.

This person may provide oversight and guidance to developing team members.

• Contributes to the development of the corporate Automation strategy.
• Develops concepts for automated system solutions, incorporating all aspects of the electrical, controls, pneumatic, mechanical, etc. systems.
• Designs controls, electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, including Bill of Material definition and schematic generation.
• Modifies, reverse engineers, and troubleshoots existing systems.
• Understands automation application cost implications and helps perform budgetary cost analysis of concepts generated.
• Assists with automation scope and requests for quote for both internal and 3rd party vendors.
• Programs PLC / ladder logic, robots, and vision systems and integrates into manufacturing equipment.
• Facilitates technical communication and quotations with 3rd party automation / integrator vendors.
• Understands and translates the needs of product and processes into documentation of system requirements, including design, installation, and testing for new automated equipment and systems. Supports integrated system test and factory acceptance testing definition & execution.
• Delivers technical documentation and presentations. Ensure “as-built” changes are effectively documented through the change management system.
• Collaborates on team designs (hardware and software) of mechanical, pneumatic and electronic systems.
• Applies engineering theory, practices, and principles to perform failure analysis to determine root cause of equipment failures and conduct machinery performance evaluations.
• Collaborates cross‑functionally with other groups such as Operations, IT, Sourcing, and other stakeholders as needed.
• Provide guidance and assist in development of Swagelok’s automation capabilities. Mentors, guides, and oversees the work of developing team members.

• Education: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Controls, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering or similar technical discipline.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of controls / automation engineering experience in a manufacturing setting with significant experience in the following:
  • Robot programming, implementation, and integration with other machinery.
  • Machine controls including but not limited to PLC programming and ladder logic, process and temperature PID controllers, mechanical robotic components, and data logging.
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems and mechanical robotic design.
  • Selection and proper application of control system components such as sensors, valves, relays, PLCs, etc.
  • Safety Concentration:
    Machine and safety requirements and ability to perform appropriate risk assessments independently. Preferred: ANSI (R15.06, B11.0. B11.20, Z136.1), ISO (TC 299, 10218-2, 15066, 20218-1, 20218-2), IEC (61508-1, 62061, 61511), NFPA (70, 70B, 70E, 79), and OSHA (Technical Manual – Section IV and 29 CFR 1910).
  • Creation and interpretation of technical schematics and electrical drawings.
  • CAD Software (Solid Works preferred).
  • MS Office Suite (especially Excel proficiency).
  • Data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
  • Vision systems (preferred).
• Strong critical thinking, system analysis, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to perform work on multiple concurrent complex projects / initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal skills (oral and written communication) with the ability to collaborate with leaders, peers, operators, and…