Process Engineer Automation

VAT Vakuumventile AG; Arkansas; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

VAT Group is seeking an automation engineer to lead the development of assembly and end-of-line testing equipment. You will work with global teams to translate user needs into robust technical specifications and deliver production-ready automation solutions.

The role requires experience in factory automation, strong documentation skills, and the ability to support improvements across sites. A degree in electrical engineering or related fields is essential, with Masters seen as an advantage.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, automation, or a related field; a master’s degree is an advantage.
• Experience with manufacturing equipment connectivity and automation of production/end-of-line testing.
• Good communication skills in English; German is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop assembly and end-of-line testing equipment, focusing on automation and project teamwork.
• Design, build, validate, and release automation equipment for production with VAT Group teams and suppliers.
• Create technical specifications and documentation to support CE conformity and solution development.
• Integrate electrical and electronic components into automated systems and develop verification plans.
• Provide third-level technical support and drive continuous improvements across global sites.

Skills

Beckhoff/TwinCAT

English communication

LabVIEW

Siemens systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering/electronics/automation

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Beckhoff

TwinCAT

Siemens systems

LabVIEW

Job description

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At VAT, we change the world with vacuum solutions. As the world’s leading supplier of high-performance vacuum valves, we have been driving innovation for more than 60 years. With over 3,200 employees worldwide, we operate from our headquarters in Haag, Switzerland, with manufacturing sites in Switzerland, Malaysia and Romania, as well as sales and service hubs around the world. We are guided by our passions integrity, teamwork, customer centricity, and innovation – always working together as #oneVAT.

Joining us means becoming part of a passionate, international team where your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your career growth is supported.

MAIN ROLE AND ACTIVITIES

• Development of Assembly and End-of-Line Testing Equipment
  • Execute the full development lifecycle for automated and system-controlled assembly and end-of-line testing equipment, with a focus on automation, as part of project teams.
  • Design, build, validate, and release automation equipment and devices for production use in collaboration with VAT Group teams and external suppliers.
  • Work with global cross-functional teams to collect user requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
  • Support global sites in the introduction of new end-of-line test processes, including the development and release of production and test equipment for new product introductions and new process requirements.
  • Develop and implement technical solutions that meet industry standards and follow engineering best practices.
• Project Management and Documentation
  • Prepare clear and accurate technical specification documents in line with applicable CE conformity requirements.
  • Create flowcharts, layouts, and technical documentation to define requirements and support solution development.
  • Integrate electrical and electronic components into fully functional automation systems.
  • Develop verification plans and support quality assurance activities.
• Troubleshooting and Continuous Improvement
  • Analyze, optimize, and upgrade existing automation solutions.
  • Maintain technical documentation and ensure functional definitions remain up to date.
  • Review user feedback and implement necessary improvements and updates.
  • Provide third-level technical support to local sites when required.

KEY EXPERIENCES

• Experience with manufacturing equipment connectivity, including communication protocols and system architecture.
• Experience in the automation of production processes and end-of-line testing.
• Experience in the automation of assembly and end-of-line testing processes.
• Experience contributing to cross-functional projects in an industrial environment.
• A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics, automation, or a related field; a master’s degree is an advantage.
• Experience in valve technology and cleanroom environments is an advantage.

COMPETENCIES

• Proficiency in automation platforms such as Beckhoff/TwinCAT; knowledge of Siemens systems is an advantage.
• LabVIEW programming knowledge is an advantage.
• Understanding of software architecture and data storage concepts in industrial applications.
• Knowledge of engineering development processes and working methods.
• Good communication skills in English; German is an advantage.
• Proactive, well organized, team-oriented, and customer-focused.

Our commitment to inclusion, fairness and equal opportunities

We believe in meaningful careers, continuous learning, and equal opportunities for everyone to drive our innovation and success. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. If you have concerns, our compliance channel is available at our website. All reports are handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with our Code of Conduct .