Sr. Automation Engineer

Festo USA; Mason (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in automation technology seeks a Sr. Automation Engineer to lead innovative projects and drive technological advancements. In this pivotal role, you'll manage complex automation systems, integrating various technologies to enhance operational efficiency. Your expertise will guide the development of cutting-edge solutions that leverage IIoT and advanced automation principles. Join a dynamic team dedicated to fostering innovation and excellence, where your contributions will make a significant impact on the future of automation. This is an exciting opportunity to grow professionally while shaping the landscape of industrial automation.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401k Plan

Paid Time Off

Educational Assistance

Disability Insurance

Pet Insurance

Paid Holidays

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in automation engineering with complex project leadership.
• Proficiency in IIoT protocols and automation technologies.

Responsibilities

• Manage customer-focused automation projects throughout the product lifecycle.
• Lead design and selection of components for automation systems.

Skills

Automation Engineering

Project Management

IIoT Protocols

HMI Proficiency

PLC Programming

CNC and Machine Vision

3D Printing

Electrical Systems Knowledge

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Onshape

ERP Software

Job description

Join to apply for the Sr. Automation Engineer role at Festo USA

Our curiosity has made us a driving force in automation technology for decades. Today, we have more than 20,000 employees worldwide working towards our vision of inspiring customers with intelligent and intuitive industrial automation solutions.

We want to keep the world moving, so we’re looking for inventive talents and team players—colleagues who can make a real contribution. We look forward to receiving your application and getting to know you better!

Summary of job contents

The Automation Engineer II is responsible for developing and implementing advanced technological projects that leverage specialized knowledge in automation engineering, including high integration between various brands of PLCs, HMIs, robots, AMRs, MES, user interfaces, and specialized software—both proprietary to Festo and third-party applications. The engineer will also focus on integrating Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions and communication protocols to create seamless, efficient, and innovative automation systems.

Key Accountabilities

• Manage and guide customer-focused projects throughout the entire product lifecycle, including synthesizing project requirements, leading conceptual design, supporting detailed quotations, and assisting with design documentation.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in advanced automation projects, ensuring seamless integration of diverse technologies such as PLCs, HMIs, robots, AMRs, MES, and IIoT solutions.
• Analyze and translate complex customer requirements into innovative automation solutions that improve operational efficiency and support business growth.
• Define ERP solutions, oversee order fulfillment, and ensure thorough solution validation.
• Lead the design and selection of components and systems from conception to implementation, aligning with business strategies.
• Collaborate with the technical writing team on developing technology courses, ensuring content accuracy and relevance.
• Develop and adapt courseware to meet specific project needs, acting as a subject matter expert.
• Define troubleshooting activities that effectively communicate technical methods and support student training in manufacturing careers.
• Spearhead automation solutions development, leveraging engineering principles to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives for process optimization, cost reduction, and technological advancement.
• Champion emerging technologies and industry trends to position the organization as a leader in automation innovation.
• Maintain effective communication with customers, sales teams, and technical partners to align project goals and deliverables.
• Foster knowledge sharing across departments and global teams to promote innovation and excellence.
• Deliver training sessions and presentations to clients and internal teams to promote understanding of advanced automation solutions.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor for automation technologies.
• Mentor junior engineers and technical staff, encouraging professional growth and knowledge transfer.
• Lead cross-functional project teams to ensure successful automation project execution, fostering accountability and excellence.
• Participate in competency development initiatives to build a highly skilled automation workforce.

Knowledge And Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field; Mechatronics with a focus on Automation, Controls, Mechanical, or Electrical preferred.
• At least 5+ years of experience in automation engineering, leading complex projects with multiple technologies.
• Deep understanding of the automation industry, market dynamics, and technological trends.
• Proficiency with HMIs, PLCs, AMRs, CNC, Machine Vision, 3D printing, drives, and robot software from leading brands such as Rockwell, Siemens, Festo, CoDeSys, Fanuc, ABB, Zebra, SensoPart, UR Robots, Kuka, Sick, Turck, Robotino, EMCO, Wago, Balluff, Mitsubishi, and Omron.
• Experience with advanced automation technologies including PLCs, HMIs, robots, AMRs, MES, and IIoT systems.
• Strong command of IIoT protocols like Profinet, Ethernet/IP, MQTT, IO-Link, and OPC UA for system interoperability.
• Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling tools (SolidWorks, Onshape), ERP software, and communication protocols.
• Comprehensive electrical systems knowledge and familiarity with electrical codes and standards.
• Experience integrating MES, manufacturing IT, industrial networks, and applications.

Benefits

Festo offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending, Disability insurance, 401k, Pet Insurance, Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off, Educational Assistance, and more. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and are an equal opportunity employer.