Automation Engineer

UnitedHealth Group•Charlotte, NC

36d•$91,700 - $163,700•Onsite

About The Position

This role serves as a lead technical resource for industrial automation across a network of pharmacy fulfillment centers, supporting initiatives ranging from day to day operational improvements to large-scale capital projects. In addition to project execution, this position plays a critical role in providing ongoing support and optimization of existing automation systems, including robotics, conveyor systems, and integrated production equipment, ensuring maximum uptime, reliability, and performance. You will be responsible for designing, developing, implementing, testing, and supporting both cutting-edge and legacy automation solutions within our industrial processes. A solid emphasis is placed on system stability, rapid troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a live production environment. As the Engineer in this capacity, you will own and support all aspects of industrial automation systems, including Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs/PLCs), electrical systems, vision systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, fieldbus networks, robotics, pneumatics, Integrated PCs (IPCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), conveyor systems, and sensing technologies. In addition to development responsibilities, you will act as a key support resource, diagnosing issues, providing root cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions for automation systems in production. You will collaborate cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure systems are properly maintained, supported, and continuously improved. Success in this role requires expertise across the full automation lifecycle, from new system design and commissioning to hands-on troubleshooting, support, and optimization of existing systems in a fast-paced production environment.

Requirements

BS Degree (Preferred Engineering or Computer Sciences, Automation, Electrical, Mechanical) with 3+ years of experience in an industrial application/ environment, preferably manufacturing or process industries.
Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g. ladder logic, statement list), robotic systems (e.g., robotic arms), and industrial communication networks, and comprehension of electrical control systems drawings.
Proven experience in designing and implementing industrial automation and robotics solutions.
Ability to independently lead and execute complex automation projects through diverse requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Beckhoff TwinCat Control systems
Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in industrial automation (e.g. NFPA 70E)
Robot programming (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa/Motoman)
Proficiency with automation equipment (conveyors, motors, IO devices, pneumatic components, motion control, vision systems)
Proficiency with SQL Databases, C# Programming
Proficiency with 3D modeling (e.g. SolidWorks), 2D CAD modeling
Proven solid problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail and a proactive approach to technical challenges
Proven self-starting ambition, ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting project deadlines
Proven excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

Lead the research, design, development, and ongoing support of industrial automation systems, from conceptualization through production and lifecycle sustainment
Provide day-to-day support for production automation systems, including robotics, conveyor systems, and integrated equipment, ensuring high availability, reliability, and performance
Troubleshoot and resolve hands-on technical issues related to new and existing automated equipment; drive both short-term fixes and long-term corrective actions, including root cause analysis
Act as a primary escalation point for complex automation issues, working closely with Maintenance and Operations to minimize downtime and restore production quickly
Collaborate and communicate with cross-functional teams (IT, OT, Operations, Maintenance) to identify automation opportunities, support needs, system requirements, and develop effective solutions
Commission, program, and support Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs/PLCs), robotic systems, SCADA systems, vision systems, and other automation components to meet project and operational needs
Monitor system performance, analyze data, and proactively identify improvement opportunities to enhance equipment reliability, throughput, and efficiency
Conduct testing, data gathering, and perform analytics to troubleshoot intermittent issues and optimize system performance in a live production environment
Manage installation, startup, and ongoing support of equipment, including generation and execution of test plans, factory acceptance testing (FAT), and site acceptance testing (SAT)
Plan and execute modifications to existing production equipment in a way that minimizes operational impact, including support during and after implementation
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), troubleshooting guides, and maintenance/repair documentation to support sustainment activities
Provide technical expertise, coaching, and support to internal teams to strengthen troubleshooting capabilities and foster a culture of continuous improvement
Participate in on-call or off-hours support as needed to ensure continuous operation of critical automation systems
Other duties may be assigned based on business needs