Factory Automation Engineer I

Socket.dev; Savannah (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

HLBMA LLC is seeking an entry-level Factory Automation Engineer to install, commission, operate, troubleshoot, and improve high-volume manufacturing automation equipment in Savannah, GA. You will learn to support system reliability and production continuity while collaborating with contractors and internal teams.

The role offers growth into more advanced automation responsibilities and requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering with 1–3 years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field.
• Preferred disciplines include Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Automation, Mechatronics, or related fields.
• 1–3 years of experience in factory automation, manufacturing equipment, controls, maintenance, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Analyze automation failures, identify root causes, implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Support emergency response for critical automation issues affecting production.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment, system, and communication issues with cross-functional teams.
• Assist with installation, commissioning, and qualification of new automation equipment.
• Coordinate with manufacturers and internal stakeholders for upgrades and improvements.
• Monitor performance and participate in continuous improvement initiatives for uptime and productivity.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Written & verbal communication

Microsoft Office

PLCs & industrial controls

AutoCAD

Ethernet/IP / Profinet

Bilingual: Korean & English

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Preferred: Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Automation, Mechatronics

Tools

PLCs & industrial control systems

AutoCAD (2D/3D)

Industrial networking protocols

Job description

Summary

The Factory Automation Engineer supports the installation, commissioning, operation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of factory automation equipment within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This role supports automation system reliability, equipment performance, and production continuity through technical problem solving, equipment optimization, and collaboration with equipment manufacturers, contractors, and internal stakeholders. This is an entry-level engineering position with development opportunity into more advanced automation engineering responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Analyze automation-related failures, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and improve system reliability
• Support emergency response for critical automation issues affecting production continuity
• Work cross-functionally with Factory Automation, IT, Process Engineering, Equipment Engineering, and Controls teams to troubleshoot and resolve equipment, system, and communication issues
• Support the installation, commissioning, stabilization, and qualification of new automation equipment to support production ramp-up and operational readiness
• Assist with the implementation and integration of new technologies into production lines, including vision systems, laser systems, sensors, PLC-integrated devices, and automated material handling systems
• Coordinate with equipment manufacturers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to support issue escalation, equipment upgrades, installation activities, and system improvements
• Monitor equipment performance and support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance automation efficiency, uptime, and productivity
• Support factory layout optimization and automation expansion projects to improve workflow, equipment utilization, and operational efficiency
• Support automation equipment investment reviews related to capacity improvements, system upgrades, and future expansion projects
• Complete routine documentation, issue tracking, technical reports, audits, and other records required for the position
• Follow established work instructions, SOPs, company policies, and safety procedures at all times
• Adhere to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements and all applicable PPE requirements
• Participate in and successfully complete all required training programs
• Maintain regular and reliable on-site attendance
• Maintain cleanliness at work-site in accordance with 5S3R Standards (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain; Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container)
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field required
• Preferred disciplines include Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field

Experience

• 1 to 3 years of experience in factory automation, manufacturing equipment, controls, maintenance, or a related technical field
• Relevant internship, co-op, undergraduate research, manufacturing project experience, or equivalent technical experience may be considered in lieu of full-time experience
• Experience with troubleshooting, equipment modification, testing, and failure analysis preferred
• Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments preferred
• Experience in battery, semiconductor, automotive, or other highly automated manufacturing environments preferred

Sponsorship

This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship, now or in the future. Candidates must possess current, unrestricted authorization to work in the United States.

Skills

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills
• Ability to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Familiarity with PLCs and industrial control systems
• Understanding of sensors, actuators, vision systems, and automation devices
• Basic knowledge of industrial networking and communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or similar systems
• Experience with AutoCAD (2D) and/or 3D design software
• Bilingual (Korean and English) language proficiency to facilitate communication and coordination with Korean-speaking OEMs, contractors, and stakeholders

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to properly and regularly utilize the following PPE for periods of up to 12 hours: safety glasses and steel-toed shoes, and any additional PPE required by area assignment
• Must be able to repeatedly lift, push, and pull materials or equipment for periods of up to 12 hours
• Must be able to repeatedly stoop, twist, and bend for periods of up to 12 hours
• Must be able to repeatedly reach overhead for periods of up to 12 hours
• Must be able to stand, walk, and move throughout production and equipment areas for extended periods
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods
• Must be able to use hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, and computer systems

Work Environment

• Work is performed within a manufacturing environment supporting automated production systems and equipment
• Exposure to noise, moving machinery, industrial equipment, and manufacturing processes is expected
• Employees must adhere to all company safety policies and PPE requirements
• Work may require interaction with contractors, equipment suppliers, and global stakeholders
• Fast-paced environment requiring timely response to equipment failures, production issues, and project deadlines

HLBMA LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that values the diversity of its workforce