Automation Controls Engineer III - Factory Automation

BLUE ORIGIN•West Melbourne, FL

About The Position

The Automation Controls Engineer III works in Blue Origin Operations’ Factory Automation Group, designing, developing, and integrating controls and robotic systems for custom automation solutions. The role applies controls, software, and manufacturing expertise to create robotic cells and special machines, PLC software, industrial robot applications, vision systems, electrical cabinets, motion systems, and factory layouts. It requires hands-on experience designing custom machines and robotic applications from start to finish, and collaboration with mechanical teams to ensure system performance. The engineer supports automation projects throughout their life cycle, from requirements definition and design through fabrication, assembly, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and production support. The position also contributes to improving manufacturing-process reliability and efficiency, evaluates technologies, and works with cross-functional teams to deliver complete solutions that meet functional, manufacturing, safety, and project requirements. Occasional travel for customer support and system installations is expected.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in electrical and software design for automation, robotics, or industrial equipment.
At least 3 years of experience designing and supporting automation equipment, with an advanced understanding of and demonstrated ability to implement new processes and automation technologies.
Proficiency with ECAD tools such as AutoCAD Electrical or ePlan and automation software such as TIA Portal, Studio 5000, TwinCAT, or WinCC.
Experience working with PLCs and developing code from scratch for automation platforms such as Siemens, Beckhoff, or Rockwell.
Strong understanding of machine design, motion systems, and pneumatic actuators.
Experience with manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly.
Experience with robotic systems such as KUKA, FANUC, or ABB, and overall system integration.
Working knowledge of industrial automation safety and ergonomic standards.
Strong problem-solving, communication, and project coordination skills.
Willingness to travel occasionally for customer support and system installations.
Experience in a fast-paced, custom automation environment.
Strong engineering fundamentals and hands-on problem-solving abilities.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with partners, with humility.
High attention to detail, precision, and accuracy in engineering tasks.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, automation, or a related field.
Experience working at a system integrator or custom industrial automation company.
Experience with CNC machine integration.
Proficiency with SCADA platforms such as Ignition, WinCC, or FactoryTalk.
Exposure to systems with large-part tooling designs and related logistics.
Hands-on experience with control systems, robotics, and automated industrial equipment, machines, and processes.
Ability to interpret and review mechanical drawings.
Experience with project and ticket management.
Ability to create 3D layouts and robot simulations.

Responsibilities

Design electrical panels and software for automation equipment, including tooling, fixtures, robotic cells, and custom machines.
Create electrical schematics and diagrams using ECAD.
Develop and maintain bills of materials, assembly instructions, and technical documentation.
Program and configure controls and automation devices.
Design, program, and integrate robotic systems, including external axes.
Provide production support for sophisticated manufacturing equipment and initiatives to improve manufacturing reliability and efficiency.
Collaborate with customers and tooling, project management, and manufacturing teams to define requirements and deliver complete solutions.
Ensure controls and software designs meet functional requirements, manufacturability standards, safety codes, and project guidelines.
Participate in design reviews, prototyping, testing, and system integration.
Support fabrication, assembly, and installation phases of automation projects.
Support the project life cycle, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer interface.
Research and apply devices, components, and technologies to improve system performance and cost-effectiveness.
Support automation initiatives by developing technical architecture and roadmaps and implementing solutions to improve manufacturing-process reliability and efficiency.
Improve existing systems for optimal performance and reliability.
Conduct feasibility studies, prototyping, and/or process simulations.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Basic and supplemental life insurance
Paid parental leave
Short- and long-term disability
401(k) with company match of up to 5%
Education Support Program
Stock options for regular employees working at least 20 hours per week
Paid time off of up to four weeks per year, based on weekly scheduled hours
Up to 14 company-paid holidays
Some role types and job levels may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on individual contributions, company results, or other factors; eligibility and amounts are not guaranteed.