Lead Automation Engineer

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated is seeking a Regional Automation Engineer to oversee automation systems in our labs. This role involves maintaining advanced automated equipment, driving continuous improvements, and collaborating with the Enterprise Automation Team.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field, with over 5 years of experience in industrial automation and robot programming. Strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation integration and robot programming.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain advanced automated equipment for continuous lab operations.
• Optimize existing automation systems to improve performance.
• Collaborate with team to design and commission new automation systems.

Skills

Industrial automation integration

Robot programming

PLC programming

SCADA and HMI development

Problem-solving

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Mechatronics or related field

Tools

FANUC

Allen Bradley

Siemens

Cognex

Job description

Regional Automation Engineer is responsible to lead all automation systems inside our region, drive continuous improvement initiatives to our automated systems, troubleshoot automated equipment, analyze performance and reliability, and collaborate with the Enterprise Automation Team on creating or improving automated systems inside our labs.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the operation, preventive maintenance, and repair of advanced automated equipment that supports continuous lab operations, 24/7.
• Validate and lead all new automation system implementations inside our region, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Optimize existing automation systems for better reliability and performance.
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of automation systems to minimize downtime and improve OEE.
• Develop and program industrial robots (e.g. FANUC, ABB, KUKA, UR, YASKAWA) for various automation applications such as material handling and inter‑process connectivity.
• Manage and document automation software revisions, electrical schematics, system configurations, including service/repair reports and calibrations.
• Be the regional automation SME and training leader for all lab automated systems.
• Work in collaboration with the Enterprise Automation team to design, install, and commission new automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, vision systems & sensors, actuators, and industrial networks, into cohesive control systems to enhance efficiency and reduce cost.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in industrial automation and engineering control.
• Support preventive maintenance programs and drive proactive reliability strategies.
• Experience with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, electromechanical engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation integration and robot programming.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g. Allen Bradley, Siemens).
• Expertise in robotics systems (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, etc.) and vision‑guided systems is a plus.
• Expertise in AI and vision systems (Cognex, Keyence, Matrox, Omron, etc.).
• Proficiency in SCADA, HMI development, and industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, etc.) and strong understanding of PID control loops and motion controls.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking and control systems.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead technical discussions across teams.
• Able to differentiate between color‑coded wires and interpret visual readouts.
• Work flexible schedule/shift including weekends, nights, and/or holidays.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.