Automation Engineer Sr.

Job Description:

Automation Engineer – Robotics & AGV Integration

Location: North America (Travel required across multiple manufacturing facilities)

Reports To: Sr Director, Production Engineering

Department: Manufacturing Technical Services (MTS)

Travel Requirement: 25-50% travel to vendor sites, Genie locations, and Moses Lake

Position Summary:

The Automation Engineer – Robotics & AGV Integration is responsible for leading the design, specification, and implementation of robotic and automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems across North American manufacturing operations. This position is integral to the execution of the company’s Factory of the Future Strategy, which aims to advance digital manufacturing, operational excellence, and safety across all production facilities. The incumbent will collaborate with internal manufacturing teams, automation vendors, and system integrators to deliver robust, scalable automation solutions that support the organization’s long-term strategic objectives.

What you'll do

• Lead the development, specification, and implementation of robotic and AGV systems in alignment with the Factory of the Future Strategy, ensuring integration with digital operations, process automation, and quality initiatives.

• Manage automation projects through all phases, including concept development, design review, procurement, installation, commissioning, and production launch, with a focus on achieving Factory of the Future milestones and performance metrics.

• Oversee Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to ensure all systems meet functional, safety, and performance requirements, and are compliant with corporate, environmental, and regulatory standards (ANSI, OSHA, NFPA).

• Integrate automation equipment with plant control systems, including PLCs, MES, and safety systems, supporting digital operations management and the Genie Operating System.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Manufacturing, Materials, Maintenance, IT, and Quality) to ensure seamless automation implementation and alignment with organizational best practices.

• Support the development and deployment of automation standards and best practices for company-wide adoption, contributing to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

• Provide training and technical support to plant personnel on new automation technologies, fostering a culture of innovation and digital readiness.

What you'll bring

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, or Mechatronics Engineering (or related field).

• Minimum five (5) years of experience in automation, robotics integration, or manufacturing systems engineering.

• Demonstrated experience specifying and implementing industry-standard robotic systems and AGV/AMR solutions.

• Strong understanding of industrial controls, PLC programming (Allen-Bradley), and safety systems.

• Proven ability to manage vendor relationships and complex automation projects.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in heavy equipment, automotive, or large-scale manufacturing environments.

• Working knowledge of industrial networking, sensors, and vision systems.

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and digital manufacturing methodologies.

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.

• Willingness to travel up to 40% across North America to support project execution.

Organizational Impact and Opportunities:

• Opportunity to lead transformative automation projects within a world-class, digitally enabled manufacturing organization.

• Exposure to advanced robotics, AGVs, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and digital manufacturing technologies.

• Collaborative, safety-first culture committed to innovation, operational excellence, and the Factory of the Future vision.

• Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities.

Salary: The salary range for this position is $95k - $170k based on location and years of experience., depending on experience and location. The salary range may be higher or lower depending on the applicant’s location. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for a performance bonus. All eligible Team Members will be offered health insurance (medical, dental, vision, Rx), life