Regional Automation Lead: Drive 24/7 Systems & Innovation

Quest Diagnostics; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Diagnostics is seeking a Regional Automation Engineer to lead automation across the region, drive improvements, and troubleshoot automated lab equipment. You will collaborate with the Enterprise Automation Team to implement new systems, optimize reliability, and support maintenance programs.

The role requires robotics expertise and strong problem-solving skills across teams. Responsibilities include leading PLC/HMI/vision system deployments, managing revisions, and ensuring safety

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics or related field.
• 5+ years in industrial automation integration and robot programming.
• Proficient with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
• Robotics expertise with FANUC, ABB, KUKA; vision systems a plus.
• AI and vision systems experience (Cognex, Keyence, Omron).
• SCADA, HMI development and industrial protocols mastery.
• Strong PID, motion control and industrial networking knowledge.
• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma knowledge.
• Excellent problem-solving and project management.
• Strong communication and cross-team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead operation, preventive maintenance and repair of advanced automation equipment.
• Validate and lead new automation implementations within region.
• Optimize existing automation systems for reliability and performance.
• Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis to minimize downtime.
• Develop and program industrial robots for material handling and connectivity.
• Manage automation software revisions, schematics and configurations.
• Be the regional automation SME and training leader for labs.
• Collaborate with Enterprise Automation to design, install and commission new systems (PLC, HMI, vision, sensors).
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
• Support preventive maintenance and reliability programs; use CMMS.
• Work a flexible schedule including weekends, nights, holidays.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics systems

Vision systems

AI vision

SCADA

Industrial networking

Lean six sigma

Problem solving

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

FANUC

ABB

KUKA

Cognex

Keyence

Omron

Job description

Quest Diagnostics is seeking a Regional Automation Engineer to lead automation across the region, drive improvements, and troubleshoot automated lab equipment. You will collaborate with the Enterprise Automation Team to implement new systems, optimize reliability, and support maintenance programs.

The role requires robotics expertise and strong problem-solving skills across teams. Responsibilities include leading PLC/HMI/vision system deployments, managing revisions, and ensuring safety