Automation Engineer

Steel & O'Brien Manufacturing Inc.; Olde West Chester (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Steel & O'Brien Manufacturing Inc. in Ohio seeks a Manufacturing Engineer – Robotics to design, program, and optimize robotic automation systems that boost production performance and safety.

You will lead automation projects, integrate robots with PLCs and vision systems, and drive Lean/Six Sigma improvements across the manufacturing floor, delivering reliable, scalable processes.

Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of experience; hands-on robotics experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement robotic manufacturing cells and automated production systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize industrial robots (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, Universal Robots).
• Integrate robots with PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, conveyors, and other automation equipment.
• Lead automation projects from concept through installation and production launch.
• Ensure robotic systems meet OSHA/ANSI safety standards and company policies.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Hands-on mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

PLC programming

Robot programming platforms

Job description

Drive Innovation Through Robotics and Automation.

Position Summary

Step into a high-impact role where engineering meets innovation. The Manufacturing Engineer – Robotics will design, program, and optimize advanced robotic automation systems that directly shape production performance. You’ll play a key role in driving efficiency, improving quality, enhancing safety, and increasing reliability across the manufacturing floor.

This is a hands-on, forward-thinking position for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, working with cutting-edge robotics, and continuously improving how things are made. The ideal candidate blends strong manufacturing engineering fundamentals with real-world experience in robotics, automation controls, and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Robotics & Automation

• Design and implement robotic manufacturing cells and automated production systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize industrial robots (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, Universal Robots).
• Integrate robots with PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, conveyors, and other automation equipment.
• Support applications including welding, material handling, assembly, palletizing, machine tending, and inspection.
• Develop and maintain robotic documentation, backups, and standards.

Manufacturing Engineering

• Identify automation opportunities to improve throughput, quality, and labor efficiency.
• Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Develop work instructions, process flows, PFMEAs, and standard operating procedures.
• Support new product launches with scalable, repeatable manufacturing processes.
• Conduct cycle time studies and capacity analysis.

Troubleshooting & Maintenance Support

• Diagnose and resolve robotic and automation issues to minimize downtime.
• Partner with maintenance and production teams to improve uptime and equipment reliability.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Project Management

• Lead automation projects from concept through installation and production launch.
• Collaborate with vendors, integrators, and internal stakeholders.
• Develop project timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure robotic systems meet OSHA, ANSI/RIA, and company safety standards.
• Participate in risk assessments and machine safeguarding reviews.
• Promote a strong culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, or related field.

Experience

• 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in an automated or robotic environment.
• Hands‑on experience programming and troubleshooting industrial robots preferred.
• Experience with PLCs and automation control systems preferred.

Technical Skills

• Robot programming platforms and teach pendants.
• PLC programming and industrial communication protocols.
• CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Manufacturing process design and automation integration.
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with vision systems, sensors, servo systems, and pneumatics (plus).

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Hands‑on, technically driven mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Lean certification.
• Experience with robotic welding or collaborative robots (cobots).
• Background in automotive, aerospace, consumer products, or high‑volume manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies and data‑driven manufacturing systems.

Culture

• Collaborative, respectful, and transparent communication across all levels of the organization.
• Proactively drives change and cross‑functional improvements that enhance efficiency and quality.
• Values input from others and listens respectfully to ideas and concerns.
• Maintains confidentiality and integrity in all interactions.
• Embodies our values of Integrity, Trust, Creativity and Courage, Teamwork, and Excellence.

Working Conditions

• Fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.
• May involve exposure to noise and varying temperatures.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.

Attendance Requirements: Attendance on a regular, consistent basis is mandatory.