Sr Associate Automation Engineer

Newell Brands; Maryville, Northern (TN, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Newell Brands in Maryville, TN is seeking an Automation Engineer to lead the Writing Supply Chain Organization’s Factory of the Future initiatives. You will design, build, test, and implement automation and robotics solutions that improve productivity, safety, and cost efficiency.

You will work with Operations to stand up projects, review designs for manufacturability, document requirements, manage budgets, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure on‑time delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field with exposure to automation.
• Experience in automation projects, PLC/HMI, and robotics preferred.
• Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to work cross-functionally.

Responsibilities

• Assist in standing up automation projects using innovative manufacturing concepts focused on process improvement.
• Design, installation, and commissioning of automation projects with Operations for launch.
• Review product designs for cost and manufacturability.
• Assess feasibility of collaborative and industrial robot applications.
• Create, document, and manage requirements for automated solutions (hardware/software).
• Manage projects to ensure on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Identify training needs and mentor automation technicians on shift.

Skills

Electrical systems

PLC and HMI programming

Industrial networks

Robotics & collaborative robots

CAD/CAM software

Budgeting & cost analysis

Safety standards awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Associate degree + 1+ years in engineering

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Microsoft Office

Automation tools/SCADA

Job description

Newell Brands is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Yankee Candle® - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action: Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impact—supported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITY:

This position will lead efforts in the Writing Supply Chain Organization with a focus on Factory of the Future and leading the identification and implementation of automation opportunities. Responsibilities include designing, building, testing, and implementing automation/robotics solutions that are productive and safe to operate as well as economical to purchase and maintain.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in standing up automation projects using innovative manufacturing concepts focused on process improvement.
• Responsible for the design, quotation, installation, and commissioning of automation projects, with a successful pass off and launch partnership with Operations.
• Review and critique product designs for cost and manufacturability.
• Examine and assess the business case and tradeoffs of using new innovative manufacturing concepts.
• Assess manufacturing processes for the feasibility of use of collaborative and industrial robot applications.
• Create, compile, and document requirements for automated solutions, including hardware and software dependencies and requirements.
• Recommend physical changes to manufacturing facility to support equipment installation.
• Assist in soliciting quotations, qualifying suppliers, and selecting equipment vendors.
• Pilot and debug robotic manufacturing processes for production-based environments
• Support the installation of robotic and automation solutions.
• Facilitate project management with integrators.
• Manage projects to ensure on time and on budget delivery.
• Drive to attain productivity goals and achieve targets.
• Identify training needs of the automation and operations team and develop training plans.
• Provide coaching and constructive feedback to create success within the team.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with cross functional teams to ensure alignment and success of projects.
• Collaborate with Safety and Operations professionals to ensure successful management of change.
• Manage and direct the activities of on shift Automation Technicians

JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Experience with electrical system including Sensors, Motor controls, VFD, Servo drives, Analog instrumentation, Safety Emergency Stop and Guard door Systems
• Experience with PLC and HMI Programming including ladder logic, function block programming.
• Experience with network communication ControlNet, Ethernet, EtherCat, etc.
• Knowledge of electrical safety code
• Background and knowledge in manufacturing areas such as robotics, human robot interfaces
• Experience with Collaborative robots and all associated peripheral equipment (vision systems, force gauges, end of arm tooling options, etc.)
• Experience with Plant/Facility design/layout software.
• Use of computer-aided design and drafting, and computer-aided manufacturing (CADD/CAM) systems.
• Capable of creating bill of material and maintain project budget.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, team environment with constant interruptions
• Ability to clearly communicate business goals for associates to understand how they contribute to the organization’s success
• Communicating with all levels of management and production personnel

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to walk, bend, kneel, stoop, climb, reach and grasp for varying periods of time during working hours

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or Associate degree and minimum 1+ years’ experience in an Engineering discipline
• Strong leadership and communication skills, including presentation skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Self-start and possess the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks and assignments simultaneously
• Consumer Products Industry Experience preferred

#LI-DM1

Newell Brands (NASDAQ: NWL) is a leading global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Rubbermaid, Sharpie, Graco, Coleman, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Yankee Candle, Paper Mate, FoodSaver, Dymo, EXPO, Elmer’s, Oster, NUK, Spontex and Campingaz. We are focused on delighting consumers by lighting up everyday moments. Newell Brands and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.