Automation Engineer

Precision Associates Inc; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) matching plan

Generous PTO plan

Vision insurance

Job summary

Precision Associates Inc in Minneapolis, Minnesota is seeking a skilled engineer to drive automation projects from concept through completion. The role includes developing mechanical designs using SolidWorks, designing electrical systems, and programming PLCs. Candidates must possess at least an associate’s degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of 5 years of experience with automation equipment.

Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and generous PTO.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years with automation equipment/systems.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings and electrical schematics.
• Self-motivated with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develop custom machine concepts and mechanical designs using SolidWorks.
• Design electrical systems including panels and wiring layouts.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs using Studio 5000.
• Lead projects from concept through completion.

Skills

Foundational knowledge or exposure to automation

Experience with PLCs and robotics

Strong communication skills

Problem-solving mindset

Education

Associate’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Automation Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

SkyCAD

Studio 5000 / RSLogix 500 & 5000

Fanuc Roboguide

Job description

General Description

Apply engineering theory and principles to automation projects. Design, develop, install, test and train personnel on new automation projects. Good communication and computer skills are required, to ensure projects are used properly and that work instructions are generated for end users.

Prerequisite Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering Tech, or a related technical field (or equivalent hands‑on experience)
• Foundational knowledge or exposure to automation, machine design, or controls systems
• Experience with PLCs, robotics, or electrical/mechanical systems preferred
• Ability to read or learn to read mechanical drawings and electrical schematics
• Strong willingness to learn and grow in a hands‑on engineering environment
• Self‑motivated with a problem‑solving mindset and attention to detail
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with engineers and technicians
• Minimum of 5 years with automation equipment/systems

Key Responsibilities

• Mechanical Design
  • Develop custom machine concepts and detailed mechanical designs using SolidWorks
  • End of arm tools, retrofit machines, custom machines, automated cells, etc.
  • Create assemblies, detailed drawings, and bills of materials
  • Design for manufacturability, reliability, and ease of maintenance
• Electrical Design
  • Design electrical systems including panels, wiring layouts, and component selection using SkyCAD
  • Read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics
  • Ensure designs meet safety standards and industry best practices
  • Support troubleshooting and system validation during build and startup
• Controls & Automation Programming
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs using Studio 5000 / RSLogix 500 & 5000 / Mapware7000
  • Develop and integrate:
    • Industrial robot programs (Fanuc Roboguide, Arburg robots & injection presses)
    • HMI interfaces (Mapware 7000, Maple Systems EBPro, FactoryTalk View Studio)
  • Design systems using state machine logic architecture
  • Commission, debug, and optimize automated systems in-house
• Project Execution & Coordination
  • Lead projects from concept through completion, including design, build, and startup
  • Develop execution plans leveraging available resources and technicians
  • Coordinate across teams to meet timelines, budgets, and customer expectations
  • Communicate effectively with customers and team members via:
    • In‑person meetings, phone calls, video conferencing
  • Provide technical support during installation, commissioning, and post‑delivery

Benefits

Medical insurance

Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) matching plan

Basic Life insurance

Voluntary Life insurance

LTD/STD insurance

Flexible benefits plan

Vision insurance

Generous PTO plan

Employee savings account (interest paying)

Holiday pay (8) – starts upon hire

Benefits offered after one year of full‑time employment;

Employee loan

Biannual profit sharing program