Automation Application Engineer

Saicon; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Saicon is seeking a mid-level Automation Application Engineer II in Redmond, WA to independently support design, integration, testing, and deployment of industrial automation systems. The role emphasizes machine vision, identification tech, and system optimization across customer sites and facilities.

You will own automation projects, configure systems, troubleshoot issues, and develop documentation while ensuring safety and compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical/Controls/Mechanical or related Automation field).
• 2-4 years of experience in industrial automation systems with machine vision and identification tech.
• Proficient with PLCs and vendor vision software (Cognex, Keyence, Zebra).

Responsibilities

• Configure, test, and modify automation applications including machine vision and identification systems.
• Develop and maintain vendor-specific tools for programming and configuration.
• Lead system-level integration, device configuration, calibration, and multi-device optimization.
• Perform wiring verification, I/O checkout, and field-level integration.
• Troubleshoot complex automation and control system issues independently.
• Create and maintain system documentation (wiring diagrams, functional descriptions).
• Support project development, commissioning, and handover to operations.
• Ensure safety, quality, and regulatory standards in field activities.
• Adhere to customer plant standards and engineering best practices while suggesting improvements.

Skills

Machine vision

Identification technologies

Sensors

PLC programming

Electrical schematics

Troubleshooting

Customer-facing

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

Cognex

Keyence

Zebra

Job description

Summary of Position

The Automation Application Engineer II is a mid-level engineering role responsible for independently supporting the design, integration, testing, and deployment of industrial automation systems. This position applies advanced automation and systems engineering principles to develop and implement solutions that improve safety, quality, and operational efficiency.

The AEII takes ownership of assigned automation projects, including system configuration, integration of machine vision and identification technologies, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization. This role collaborates closely with Sales Engineers and Automation Engineers to define technical requirements, develop solutions, and ensure systems operate reliably in customer environments.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong technical expertise in industrial automation, sound decision‑making skills, and the ability to work independently on complex projects. This position requires travel to company facilities and customer sites for system deployment, occasionally on short notice.

Essential Functions

• Independently configure, test, and modify automation applications, including machine vision, barcode scanning, and identification systems.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain vendor‑specific software tools for programming, configuration, and system integration tasks.
• Lead system‑level integration activities, including device configuration, calibration, validation, and optimization of multi‑device systems.
• Perform wiring verification, I/O checkout, and field‑level integration, providing guidance to less experienced engineers.
• Troubleshoot complex automation, vision, and control system issues and implement corrective actions independently.
• Create, update, and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including wiring diagrams, functional descriptions, work instructions, and configuration/installation records.
• Support project development, system builds, commissioning, and handover to operations, providing technical guidance to other engineers as needed.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards in engineering and field activities.
• Adhere to customer plant standards, system strategies, and engineering best practices, while suggesting improvements to processes or designs

Competencies

• Ensures Accountability
• Tech Savvy
• Communicates Effectively
• Values Differences
• Customer Focus
• Drives Results
• Plans and Prioritizes
• Decision Quality

Work Environment

• This position is based in a professional office setting and regularly utilizes workplace technology, including computers, smartphones, multifunction printers, cloud‑based filing systems, and collaboration tools.

Physical Demands

This role requires physical capabilities that support the successful execution of key responsibilities. The employee regularly engages in verbal and written communication with colleagues and clients to address project‑related inquiries and must be able to convey accurate information clearly and efficiently. The position involves remaining seated at a workstation for approximately 75% of the time, with occasional movement throughout the office to access equipment, supplies, and shared resources. Daily tasks include consistent use of computers and standard office technology such as keyboards, printers, and multifunction devices. The role also involves transporting equipment boxes weighing up to 25 pounds within the building and to other offsite locations as needed for project support.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• 2-5 years of experience

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering: preferably in Electrical, Controls, Mechanical, or related Automation fields
• Minimum 2-4 years of experience in industrial automation systems, including machine vision, identification technologies, sensors, and industrial networks
• Proficient with common automation and vision platforms, including PLCs and vendor‑specific vision software such as Cognex, Keyence, Zebra, or similar
• Ability to independently read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system documentation
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills across electrical, controls, and software domains
• Demonstrated ability to work independently on complex automation projects and mentor less experienced engineers
• Strong communication, collaboration, and customer‑facing skills
• Ability to follow procedures and work safely in industrial and field‑based environments