Automation Technical Specialist

ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc; Cambridge; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation solutions provider in Cambridge is seeking an Automation Technical Specialist to lead mechanical design for custom automation equipment. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in automation or mechanical design, proficiency in CAD tools like SolidWorks, and a background in robotics or industrial components. This role offers a competitive salary and a commitment to employee development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Paid vacation

Comprehensive health and dental benefits

Tuition reimbursement program

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in automation or mechanical design is required.
• Experience with robotics and industrial automation components is essential.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or Six Sigma is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of custom automation equipment.
• Provide technical support during installation and commissioning.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through design improvements.

Skills

Mechanical Design

CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, AutoCAD)

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting

Communication

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in mechanical design or engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Automation Technical Specialist

The world isn’t standing still, and neither is ATS Life Sciences - We don’t follow the trends. We set them!

Are you interested in being part of a team that makes a difference? Join our growing ATS Life Sciences Systems team, a division of ATS Corporation, a publicly traded global enterprise with a proud history. We custom design, build and service critical automated solutions for medical device and pharmaceutical companies. We are dedicated to assisting our customers in improving the quality of life for people around the world. When there is no room for error, and product failure is not an option, leading life sciences companies trust us to resolve their production challenges.

Job Description

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Mechanical Design and Engineering
• Lead the mechanical design of custom automation equipment, tooling, and fixtures
• Develop 3D models, detailed drawings, and BOMs using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)
• Ensure designs meet functional, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to ensure seamless system integration
• Conduct design reviews and support prototype development and testing
• Review electrical requirements with respect to input and output devices with electrical designers
• Review machine operations and machine sequences with programmers
• Assist the fabricators, machinists, toolmakers and electricians in the debug, integration resolving problems and completion of systems
• Determine tools, fixtures and equipment to be used in fabrication and assembly of mechanical components and complete assemblies

Value Engineering and Cost Optimization

• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through design simplification, material selection, and process improvements
• Evaluate supplier components and alternatives to reduce cost and improve reliability
• Support make-vs-buy decisions with technical and economic analysis
• Drive standardization of components and design practices across projects

Technical Support and Troubleshooting

• Serve as a subject matter expert for diagnosing and resolving complex mechanical and system-level issues
• Provide on-site and remote technical support during installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and service teams to resolve field issues and implement corrective actions
• Document root cause analyses and develop preventive measures
• Participate in project planning, design reviews, and risk assessments
• Support project managers with technical input, timelines, and resource planning
• Coordinate with suppliers and external partners for design validation and component sourcing
• Propose and lead initiatives to improve system performance, reliability, and maintainability

General

• Periodically oversees co-op students and Designers on various projects
• Adhere to all ISO procedures pertaining to the job responsibilities
• Ensure that all business activities are performed with the highest ethical standards and in compliance with the ATS Code of Business Conduct
• Work in compliance with divisional health, safety and environmental procedures
• Refrain from removing or altering safety devices or guarding unless hazardous energies are controlled through lockout-tagout methods
• Report any unsafe conditions or unsafe acts
• Report defect in any equipment or protective device
• Ensure that the required protective equipment is used for the assigned tasks
• Attend all required health, safety and environmental training
• Report any accidents/incidents to supervisor
• Assist in investigating accidents/incidents
• Refrain from engaging in any prank, contest, feat of strength, unnecessary running or rough and boisterous conduct

Qualifications

Education:

• A post-secondary diploma or degree in mechanical design, mechanical engineering or equivalent

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in automation, mechanical design, or technical support roles
• Experience with robotics, motion systems, pneumatics, and industrial automation components
• Familiarity with PLCs, sensors, and control systems integration
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Skills:

• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, GD&T, and materials
• Proven experience in value engineering and cost reduction initiatives
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills

We encourage applicants who are excited about this role to apply even if they do not meet every listed qualification.

Why YOU should join our ATS Life Sciences Systems team:

We value our PEOPLE - The foundation of a great company is having the best team which is why we continuously work to develop, engage, empower and energize our people. The best people want to work with the best team - the best teams are diverse and inclusive teams.

What we do MATTERS - our Life Sciences projects contribute to improving the lives of people around the world! ATS has made a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030!

INNOVATION and PROBLEM SOLVING is at our core - Our pursuit of continuous improvement in everything we do. Our focus is on building diverse teams, stimulating innovation by challenging conventional thinking, encouraging fresh ideas and promoting creative problem-solving

We prioritize internal GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT - ATS offers endless opportunities for professional growth and development – with a tuition reimbursement program, individual development programs and a commitment to promoting from within - there is space for you to grow your career at ATS!

We offer COMPETITIVE Total Rewards - Competitive starting salaries, overtime pay eligibility, paid vacation, Employee Incentive Bonus program, comprehensive health and dental benefits including Lifestyle Spending Account, 5% RRSP matching program and optional Employee Share Purchase Program

A place to BELONG: We celebrate our differences and ensure that all employees have equal opportunities for growth and development. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experiences is essential for our success and innovation.

ATS is in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA), 2005 and will, upon request, assist those who may require specific accommodations due to a personal disability. We would ask that those who require assistance notify our offices as soon as possible if accommodation is necessary