Automation Engineer

Steel & O'Brien Manufacturing Inc.; Olde West Chester (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Steel & O'Brien Manufacturing Inc. is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer – Robotics to design, program, and optimize advanced robotic automation systems that enhance production efficiency, quality, safety, and reliability on the shop floor.

The role requires hands-on experience with robotics, automation controls, and process improvement, along with strong fundamentals in manufacturing engineering and a proactive mindset for continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in automated/robotic environments.
• Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting industrial robots preferred.
• Experience with PLCs and automation control systems preferred.

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.
• Support applications including welding, material handling, assembly, palletizing, machine tending, and inspection.
• Develop and maintain robotic documentation, backups, and standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Robot programming

PLC programming

CAD (SolidWorks/AutoCAD)

Lean/Six Sigma

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical/Electrical/Mechatronics/Robotics engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

PLC systems

Vision systems

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.