Manufacturing Automation Engineer

It’s not just about your career or job title… It’s about who you are and the impact you will make on the world. Because whether it’s for each other or our customers, we put People First. When our people come together, we Expand the Possible and continuously look for ways to improve what we create and how we do it. If you are constantly striving to grow, you’re in good company. We are revolutionizing the way the world moves for future generations, and we want someone who is ready to move with us.

Who will you be working with?

Our Wabtec Young Touchstone team combines knowledge of our customers’ product platforms/processes with industry expertise to deliver unparalleled product solutions. Here you’ll interact daily with all support team functions to solve problems and will partner with other key stakeholders to support our customers and their operations.

How will you make a difference?

As a member of the Manufacturing Engineering group, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and supporting automation solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, safety, and cost performance across both the Jackson and Lexington plants. This role will work closely with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to integrate new automation systems, optimize existing equipment, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The position will report directly to the Manufacturing Engineering Leader of the business unit.

What do we want to know about you?

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or similar role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar) and HMI development.
• Experience with robotics, motion control, and vision inspection systems.
• Proficient in reading and developing electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities across two plant locations.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and TPM principles preferred.

What will your typical day look like?

• Design, develop, and implement automation systems (robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, vision systems, etc.) to support manufacturing operations.
• Provide hands-on troubleshooting, programming, and maintenance support for automated equipment.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities that reduce cost, improve throughput, and enhance safety.
• Support capital projects by specifying, sourcing, and commissioning new automated equipment.
• Maintain accurate documentation of automation systems including electrical schematics, software programs, and operational manuals.
• Train maintenance and production staff on operation and troubleshooting of automated systems.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to increase equipment uptime, reliability, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with vendors and integrators for automation upgrades and new system implementation.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and company policies.
• Provide automation support for both Jackson and Lexington facilities, requiring travel between sites up to 40% of time.

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).

Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary range for this role is between

The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include an annual bonus, if eligible.

Who are we?

Wabtec Corporation is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for freight and transit rail as well as the mining, marine, and industrial markets.