Automation-Driven Manufacturing Engineer

Wabtec Corporation; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 79,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

Wabtec Corporation in Salem, Virginia seeks an Automation Engineer to lead advanced manufacturing automation, drive DFx, and improve processes across design and production. You will design, test, and implement electro‑mechanical systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams to boost quality, reduce costs, and elevate efficiency.

The role emphasizes hands-on tooling design, integration of servos and sensors, and metrology expertise, with opportunities for prototyping and capital project

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years industrial manufacturing experience.
• 4+ years designing manufacturing tooling and equipment.
• Hands-on experience in machining, welding, assembly, testing, or molding.
• Proficient in MS Office, databases, and 3D design tools (SolidWorks preferred).
• Experience integrating automation components (servos, sensors, motion systems).
• Experience with precision measurement, metrology, and dimensional analysis.
• Strong problem solver with clear communication.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, able to work independently.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Hands-on experience building prototypes, tooling, or automated systems.
• Expertise in CNC machining, metalworking, assembly, or automation.
• PLC programming or LabVIEW experience.
• Learns Lean tools: 5S, value stream mapping, control plans.

Responsibilities

• Improve manufacturing processes, work instructions, and tooling designs.
• Integrate and support automation equipment and technologies.
• Conduct time studies and implement cost and efficiency improvements.
• Manage equipment and capital projects within budget and timelines.
• Collaborate with teams to resolve issues and enhance manufacturing performance.
• Support supplier selection, feasibility studies, and project justifications.
• Apply Lean principles and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance in all processes.

Skills

Bachelor's degree

7+ years industrial manufacturing

4+ years tooling design

Machining

Welding

Assembly

Testing

Molding

Microsoft Office

3D design tools (SolidWorks)

Automation components (servos, sensors

Motion systems

Metrology / Dimensional analysis

Problem solving

Multi-priority management

Independent work

Willingness to travel

Prototype/build experience

CNC machining

Metalworking

Automation

PLC programming

LabVIEW

Lean tools (5S, VSM, control plans)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

PLC programming

LabVIEW

Job description

Wabtec Corporation in Salem, Virginia seeks an Automation Engineer to lead advanced manufacturing automation, drive DFx, and improve processes across design and production. You will design, test, and implement electro‑mechanical systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams to boost quality, reduce costs, and elevate efficiency.

The role emphasizes hands-on tooling design, integration of servos and sensors, and metrology expertise, with opportunities for prototyping and capital project