Automation Systems Engineer II

Mini-Circuits sells its products to over 20,000 customers globally through our direct sales force, applications engineering staff, and sales representatives, as well as through our extensive website.

Position Summary:

Design, validate, and scale automated production test systems and robotic device handlers for RF and Microwave components. This role is responsible for enabling standardized architectures, throughput improvement, global alignment, and long-term scalability of automated test processes.

Salary Range: $100,000 - $125,000 per year

Job Function:

• Test Handler Strategy Execution
  • Define, design, and validate standardized robotic test handlers, adaptable across multiple RF product lines.
  • Drive new handler integrations and improvements, document FPY, OEE, and operator experience metrics.
  • Collaborate with global teams (Brooklyn, Florida, India, Malaysia) to ensure alignment, backup-site readiness, and standardized deployment.
• System Design & Development
  • Analyze test and assembly processes to identify candidates for automation based on capacity, efficiency, and process control needs.
  • Develop scalable, modular designs for automated handlers, including mechanical, electrical, vision, and control systems.
  • Specify and integrate sensors (vision, position, presence), robotic arms, conveyors, and fixturing for precision RF component handling.
  • Incorporate RF test-specific requirements (grounding, thermal, high-frequency probing, shielding).
• Project Leadership
  • Prepare proposals, resource/budget estimates, and project plans for new automation initiatives.
  • Lead cross-functional reviews and maintain stakeholder communication from concept to qualification.
  • Manage vendor engagement, procurement, build, and qualification of handler systems.
• Documentation & Training
  • Create system specifications, qualification/buy-off plans, operation and maintenance procedures.
  • Train users and support personnel on deployed automation platforms.
• Sustaining & Continuous Improvement
  • Provide sustaining engineering support for deployed handler systems.
  • Drive continuous improvement in throughput, FPY, reliability, and maintainability.
  • Track and implement engineering changes and upgrades into future designs.
• Technology Awareness
  • Stay current with emerging automation technologies (vision, robotics, motion systems, AI-driven inspection) and evaluate for Mini-Circuits applications.

Qualifications:

• BS/MS degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong background in automation design (mechanical/electrical/software integration).
• Experience with robotic systems, automated handlers, or precision motion/vision-based automation.
• Familiarity with high-mix/low-to-medium volume manufacturing environments.
• CAD proficiency (SolidWorks preferred).
• Controls programming experience (PLC, microcontrollers in C/C++, or equivalent).
• Data collection and analysis skills (Excel, JMP, Python).
• Preferred Knowledge:
  • Experience with automated inspection systems (AOI, Keyence, Cognex vision).
  • Knowledge of RF test process requirements and challenges.
  • Conveyor/robot integration, pneumatic actuators, precision fixturing.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, OEE analysis, and ROI calculations.
  • Exposure to manufacturing ERP and PLM systems (SAP, Arena