Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Quest Global; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 106,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Referral program

Vision insurance

Short/Long Term Disability

Job summary

Quest Global is seeking an Automation Technician in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In this role, you will support the development and sustainment of advanced manufacturing automation across multiple sites. Responsibilities include programming automated manufacturing equipment and troubleshooting various systems.

The ideal candidate will have a BS degree in automation or equivalent experience, alongside hands-on experience with industrial automation systems. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience in industrial automation systems or automated manufacturing equipment.
• Hands-on work experience in a production environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and optimize programs for automated manufacturing equipment.
• Support installation, startup, and qualification of new automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues across motion systems and sensors.
• Collaborate with teams to improve throughput and cycle time.

Skills

Hands-on experience with industrial automation systems

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics

Familiarity with PLCs, sensors, I/O systems

Education

BS in automation and/or industrial controls

8+ years of relevant experience without a degree

Tools

Allen Bradley Controls Hardware

Fanuc Robots

Job description

We are looking for humble geniuses, who believe that engineering has the potential to make the impossible possible; innovators, who are not only inspired by technology and innovation, but also perpetually driven to design, develop, and test as a trusted partner for Fortune 500 customers. As a team of remarkably diverse engineers, we recognize that what we are really engineering is a brighter future for us all. If you want to contribute to meaningful work and be part of an organization that truly believes when you win, we all win, and when you fail, we all learn, then we’re eager to hear from you.

This role supports the development, deployment, and sustainment of advanced manufacturing automation across multiple sites. The Automation Technician will work hands‑on with automated equipment, contributing to programming, process optimization, and troubleshooting to enable reliable, high‑quality production.

This position is ideal for someone with experience in industrial automation systems, with opportunities to support a variety of manufacturing processes including electronic assembly.

What You Will Do

• Develop, modify, and optimize programs and recipes for automated manufacturing equipment
• Support installation, startup, and qualification of new automation systems
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues across motion systems, sensors, pneumatics, and material‑handling systems
• Configure and maintain equipment parameters to ensure consistent process performance and product quality
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to improve throughput, cycle time, and yield
• Create and maintain documentation for processes, programs, and change control
• Train operators and technicians on equipment operation and best practices
• Support standardization and replication of automation solutions across multiple sites
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality requirements

What You Will Bring

• BS degree in automation and/or industrial controls and would consider equivalent technical degree. In the absence of a degree, 8+ years of relevant experience would be considered as well.
• Hands‑on experience with industrial automation systems or automated manufacturing equipment
• Familiarity with PLCs, sensors, I/O systems, robotics, or motion‑controlled equipment, specifically Allen Bradely Controls Hardware and Fanuc Robots
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in a production environment
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, process documentation, and equipment manuals

Pay Range: $85,000 - $106,000

Compensation decisions are made based on factors including experience, skills, education, and other job‑related factors, in accordance with our internal pay structure. We also offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan.

Travel Requirements: Due to the nature of the work, no travel is required.

Citizenship Requirement: Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship is required.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance
• Short/Long Term Disability