Automation Engineer I: Motion Systems Innovator

Novanta Inc.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

Novanta Inc. in Irvine, CA is seeking an Automation Engineer I to design, develop, test, and improve motion systems for advanced automation and precision technology.

This hands-on role offers exposure to prototypes, manufacturing processes, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions from concept to execution. You will work with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to troubleshoot issues, document procedures, and ensure alignment with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Competence in motor technology and specifications.
• Familiarity with tuning gains and control filters, with ability to evaluate motion performance (settling time, velocity ripple).
• Understanding of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, cable color codes, and related technical documentation.
• Ability to program using structured text or languages such as C/C++ or Python.

Responsibilities

• Support the design, development, testing, and improvement of automation hardware systems, prototypes, and production solutions in partnership with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams.
• Troubleshoot equipment, prototype, and production issues; analyze technical challenges; identify practical solutions that improve performance, reliability, manufacturability, and customer outcomes.
• Create and maintain clear technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, assembly instructions, test procedures, analysis reports, and design review inputs.
• Own assigned tasks with focus, follow-through, and attention to detail while supporting team milestones and continuous improvement across daily, weekly, and monthly priorities.
• Work in alignment with Novanta's quality, occupational safety, and environmental requirements while contributing to a safe, reliable, collaborative, and responsible engineering environment.

Skills

Motor technology

Control filters

Motion performance evaluation

Electrical schematics

Programming (C/C++/Python)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering

Job description

Novanta Inc. in Irvine, CA is seeking an Automation Engineer I to design, develop, test, and improve motion systems for advanced automation and precision technology.

This hands-on role offers exposure to prototypes, manufacturing processes, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions from concept to execution. You will work with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to troubleshoot issues, document procedures, and ensure alignment with