Automation Engineer – Scale-Up & Robotic Cells

MicroAlign; Eindhoven; Hybrid; EUR 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

MicroAlign is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to lead the transformation of our production line from fully manual to semi-automated and ultimately fully automated systems. You will drive throughput, reduce cycle times, and empower operators with robust automation solutions.

The role requires hands-on design and implementation of high-volume manufacturing automation, integrating drive systems, PLC/motion control, and safety-compliant tooling, with emphasis on continuous improvement and

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of proven experience in industrial automation, preferably in a manufacturing scale-up or high-volume production environment.
• Demonstrable track record of successfully delivering automation projects from concept to running production.

Responsibilities

• Assess the current manual production line and identify automation opportunities with the highest impact on throughput and operator efficiency.
• Design, specify, and implement semi-automated and fully automated work cells, including gantry systems, pick and place tooling and ultra precise positioning.
• Select and integrate appropriate drive systems, servo motors, stepper systems, pneumatics, and control hardware.
• Develop and commission PLC/motion controller programs and HMI interfaces for automated systems.
• Define and implement motion profiles, sequencing logic, and safety interlocks in line with CE/machine safety standards.
• Work with equipment suppliers and system integrators to deliver on-time, on-budget automation projects.
• Conduct FAT/SAT testing, validation, and handover to production teams with full documentation.
• Continuously monitor and improve OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) on automated lines.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on new automated systems.

Skills

PLC programming

Motion control

Cobots

Vision systems

Servo drives

Safety standards

Education

Master’s or PhD in Mechanical Engineering / Mechatronics / Electrical Engineering

Tools

Pneumatics

Servo drives

Control hardware

Motion controllers

Job description

MicroAlign is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to lead the transformation of our production line from fully manual to semi-automated and ultimately fully automated systems. You will drive throughput, reduce cycle times, and empower operators with robust automation solutions.

The role requires hands-on design and implementation of high-volume manufacturing automation, integrating drive systems, PLC/motion control, and safety-compliant tooling, with emphasis on continuous improvement and