Automation Engineer, OFA

OKUMA AMERICA CORPORATION•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

The Automation Engineer is responsible for supporting design, integrating, installing, commissioning, troubleshooting, and supporting automation and robotic systems for CNC machine tools. This includes robotic cells, gantries, material handling, and integrated automation solutions. The role requires diagnosing complex issues across mechanical, electrical, controls, software, and robotics, implementing corrective actions, and ensuring optimal system performance. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in robotics or automation, excellent problem-solving skills, and effective communication abilities. This position also involves customer training and support, as well as collaboration with internal teams to improve current products and guide future automation development. The identification of Essential Job Functions does not display an exhaustive list of all duties that may be assigned to this position, nor does it restrict the related work that may be assigned to this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Automation, Mechatronics, Electronics, or equivalent experience.
5+ years of experience with industrial automation systems, robotics, PLCs, and CNC-integrated automation preferred.
Hands-on experience installing, troubleshooting, and repairing robotic systems and gantry automation.
Strong mechanical/electrical background (alignment, sensors, servos, pneumatics, hydraulics).
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to multitask and manage a range of responsibilities and competing priorities while working under pressure to meet deadlines
Superb time management and organizational skills with the ability to meet regular and frequent deadlines
Ability to read and interpret CAD/CAM - 2D & 3D
Ability to create technical documentation
Extensive knowledge of mechanical engineering designs, installations, maintenance, and repairs
Understanding and application of national and international standards such as ISO, OSHA, ANSI, and current RIA robot safety specifications
Strong written and verbal technical communication skills
Exceptional ability to speak and write effectively in a business environment
Exceptional ability to ask necessary questions
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
Ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and willingness to adapt to change and take initiative
Ability to sit continuously for approximately half of the normal work shift, and stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms for approximately half of the normal work shift
Ability to lift and carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds
Ability to stoop, crouch and reach
Ability to talk or hear continuously
Ability to see clearly to do all work-related tasks (clear or corrected vision at 20 inches or less)
Finger dexterity is required frequently for over 3/4 of the normal work shift including operating a phone, computer/ electronic equipment, and electronic tools
Maintain annual OSHA safety certifications as required by job duties
Driving record that is insurable
May need to travel occasionally (up to 70%)

Nice To Haves

Industrial robot training preferred (FANUC, Yaskawa, KUKA, ABB, UR etc.)

Responsibilities

Support design and integrate automation and robotic systems for CNC machine tools.
Install, commission, and support Okuma automation systems (robotic cells, gantries, pallet systems, material handling solutions).
Travel to customer sites to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair automation systems and robotic equipment.
Perform root cause analysis across mechanical, electrical, robotic, and control systems.
Provide remote technical support to customers and distributors.
Document service activities through detailed reports and technical feedback.
Develop technical bulletins, troubleshooting guides, and “how-to” manuals to enhance distributor self-support.
Deliver customer training on automation systems and best practices.
Collaborate with engineering and product teams to communicate field issues and improvement opportunities.
Direct technical support for Okuma automation systems as required
Creating and maintaining project schedules
Electromechanical systems troubleshooting
Develops and performs training for Okuma, Distributor, and end-user personnel
Adheres to all company employment policies and safe practices
Performs other duties as assigned and explores opportunities to add value