Automation Engineer

Paylocity; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Paylocity is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to design, develop, implement, and maintain automation systems that boost manufacturing efficiency and product quality. You will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Maintenance to drive initiatives from concept to production launch.

The role requires a Bachelor's in a technical field and at least 3 years in industrial automation, with hands-on PLC/HMI, robotics, and vision experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing engineering.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and HMIs.
• Knowledge of industrial robotics, machine vision systems, sensors, and motion control technologies.
• Experience in reading and creating electrical schematics and control drawings.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot automated manufacturing equipment and systems.
• Lead automation projects from concept, design, and procurement through installation, validation, and production launch.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support new product introductions and process development activities.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, and operating procedures.
• Analyze equipment performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime and improve productivity.
• Coordinate with equipment vendors, integrators, and contractors during project execution.
• Ensure compliance with company safety standards, quality requirements, and applicable industry regulations.
• Train production, maintenance, and engineering personnel on new automation systems and equipment.
• Participate in root cause investigations and corrective action activities related to manufacturing processes.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

HMI programming

Robotics

Schematic drawings

Project management

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics/Automation

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Omron

FANUC robotics

Job description

Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our growing team. This position is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems that improve manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and operational reliability. The Automation Engineer will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Maintenance teams to identify opportunities for process improvement and drive automation initiatives from concept through implementation.

Requirements

• Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot automated manufacturing equipment and systems.


• Develop and modify PLC, HMI, robotic, vision, and motion control programs.


• Lead automation projects from concept, design, and procurement through installation, validation, and production launch.


• Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to increase automation, efficiency, and reduce costs.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support new product introductions and process development activities.


• Create and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, and operating procedures.


• Analyze equipment performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime and improve productivity.


• Support preventive maintenance programs and provide technical expertise for troubleshooting equipment issues.


• Coordinate with equipment vendors, integrators, and contractors during project execution.


• Ensure compliance with company safety standards, quality requirements, and applicable industry regulations.


• Train production, maintenance, and engineering personnel on new automation systems and equipment.


• Participate in root cause investigations and corrective action activities related to manufacturing processes.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.


• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing engineering.


• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and HMIs.


• Knowledge of industrial robotics, machine vision systems, sensors, and motion control technologies.


• Experience in reading and creating electrical schematics and control drawings.


• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and continuous improvement methodologies.


• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.


• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or similar control platforms.


• Experience with robotic systems such as FANUC, ABB, Universal Robots, or Yaskawa.


• Knowledge of industrial networking protocols, including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, and Profinet.


• Experience in automotive, medical device, aerospace, precision manufacturing, or highly regulated industries.


• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.


• Strong project management and organizational capabilities.


• Effective verbal and written communication skills.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering software tools.


• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.


• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.


• Ability to work around production equipment and machinery while following all safety requirements.

Why Join Us?

We offer a collaborative work environment where innovation and continuous improvement are encouraged. This role provides the opportunity to directly impact manufacturing performance, lead exciting automation projects, and contribute to the development of advanced production technologies.