Automation Engineer

Element Electronics; Winnsboro (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Element Electronics is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, commission, and continuously improve automated manufacturing systems. You will deploy new lines, integrate Mitsubishi PLCs, and work with cross-functional teams to enhance productivity and quality.

The role emphasizes PDCA, Kaizen, data analysis, and leadership in lean initiatives across production, maintenance, and suppliers. A strong focus on safety and standards is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, automation, manufacturing, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in automation engineering, control systems, or related field.
• Strong background in automation technology, industrial robotics, and manufacturing equipment.
• Proficient in data analysis, statistics, and BI tools.
• Provide technical guidance to technicians and operators on automated systems.
• Knowledge of production equipment and integration of automated systems.
• Experience with Kaizen, PDCA and cost-reduction projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety policies and engineering standards.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and commissioning of new automated production lines.
• Support equipment installation, mechanical and electrical integration.
• Coordinate with vendors and integrators during FAT/SAT.
• Ensure new lines meet cycle time, throughput, and quality targets.
• Develop and troubleshoot PLC programs; integrate with HMI/SCADA/MES.
• Lead lean improvement efforts using Gemba walks and PDCA.
• Analyze production data and monitor KPIs to drive improvements.
• Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Gemba walks

PDCA

Kaizen

Data analysis

Root cause analysis

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

Mitsubishi PLCs

HMI/SCADA

MES

Robotics

Vision systems

Motion control

Job description

Description

Element Electronics started in 2007 with a simple belief - every home should have access to TVs with the latest technology. After a few years, we decided we wanted to do more; in 2014, we opened our factory in Winnsboro, SC making Element the only major television company assembling TVs in the United States. Today, we continue to push ourselves and have expanded our product range of electronics and home appliances while continuing to provide customers with products with the latest technology, but at the most accessible prices.

Primary Function

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, commissioning, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems. This role focuses on deploying new automation lines, integrating PLC-controlled equipment, and ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and efficiency of production processes.

The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, maintenance, and suppliers, to deliver automation projects that improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.

Essential Functions

Automation Implementation & Technology Evaluation

• Lead the implementation and commissioning of new automated production lines.
• Support equipment installation, mechanical and electrical integration.
• Coordinate with vendors and integrators during equipment setup and FAT/SAT.
• Ensure new lines meet cycle time, throughput, and quality targets.
• Perform equipment testing and validation during installation.
• Lead Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT).
• Ensure compliance with safety and engineering standards.

PLC Programming and Control Systems

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs (Mitsubishi).
• Configure and maintain PLC-controlled equipment, including sensors, actuators, robots, and conveyors.
• Support integration of PLC with HMI, SCADA, and MES systems.
• Diagnose and resolve PLC communication issues.

Continuous Improvement Process Development (Kaizen)

• Leads and facilitates lean manufacturing initiatives utilizing Gemba assessments and Gemba walks to understand current state processes.
• Applies Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology to systematically identify and address process bottlenecks.
• Analyzes production data, workflow patterns, and operational metrics to identify improvement opportunities
• Develop and implement process improvements focused on waste elimination and efficiency gains
• Monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of implemented improvements
• Performs root cause analysis using techniques such as 5-Why analysis and fishbone diagrams

Data Analysis & Performance Metrics

• Collects, analyzes, and interprets manufacturing data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities
• Uses statistical methods and data visualization tools to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders
• Establishes baseline metrics and tracks progress against improvement targets and manufacturing goals
• Creates and maintains dashboards and reports to monitor lean metrics and automation performance
• Supports the development of standard work and visual management systems across the facility

Troubleshooting and Technical Support

• Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams.
• Troubleshoot automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and motion control.
• Identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Requirements

Other Duties as assigned or as necessary

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Automation, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred
• 3-5 years of experience in automation engineering, control systems, or related field
• Support production and maintenance teams in troubleshooting automation and control system issues
• Strong background in automation technology, industrial robotics, and manufacturing equipment
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical methods, and business intelligence tools
• Provide technical guidance and training to technicians and operators on automated systems and PLC-controlled equipment
• Knowledge of production equipment, capabilities, and integration of automated systems
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, including Kaizen events and cost reduction projects
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies, engineering standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex manufacturing challenges
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and manufacturing software/systems
• Experience with equipment vendors and supplier management
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Support new product introductions (NPI) by validating automation processes and equipment capability
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented mindset
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing manufacturing needs and emerging technologies

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Technical Expertise and Automation Knowledge
• Problem Solving and Data Analysis
• Process Improvement and Lean Methodology
• Project Management and Organization
• Root Cause Analysis
• Collaboration and Team Coordination
• Business Acumen and Cost Management
• Continuous Learning and Innovation
• Attention to Detail and Documentation
• Adaptability and Resilience

Additional Information

This job description does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed. Associates will be required to follow other job-related instructions and perform other duties as requested by authorized personnel. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The Automation Engineer will perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational goals and may be expected to adapt to changing business needs and technological advances in the manufacturing and automation industries.

Physical Demands for the Automation Engineer Position

This role operates in a manufacturing environment with noise levels ranging from quiet office settings to moderate industrial floor conditions. The position requires regular verbal communication and active listening skills, along with extended periods of computer work, data analysis, and documentation. Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, and reaching while conducting process observations, Gemba walks, and equipment assessments. Occasional physical activities such as climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling may be necessary when evaluating production lines, observing workflows, or assessing automation integration points. Close vision capabilities are essential for reviewing technical drawings, analyzing process data, and documentation work.

This is a full-time position with standard business hours Monday through Friday. Flexibility for evening and weekend work may be required to support production schedules, equipment installations, project deadlines, and coordination with international suppliers across different time zones.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

Element TV Company, LP provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Element TV Company, LP complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the Company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Element TV Company, LP expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Element TV Company, LP's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.