Automation Engineer

Westfall Technik•Union City, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Engineer & Machine Builder is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of automation systems, including design, fabrication, assembly, testing, installation, troubleshooting, and support of automated machinery and equipment. This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation solutions across the manufacturing floor. The position also supports continuous improvement initiatives and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure machines meet performance, safety, and quality standards.

Requirements

Associate or Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field preferred.
Minimum 35 years of combined experience in automation design, assembly, machine building, and testing.
Prior experience in a manufacturing environment with both design and hands-on fabrication required.
Proficient in SolidWorks; working knowledge of PTC Creo and AutoCAD is an advantage.
Ability to read and create electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
Familiar with PLCs, sensors, pneumatics, control panels, and industrial automation systems.
Strong mechanical aptitude, with proficiency in using shop tools and assembly techniques.
Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and basic CAD operations.
Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Able to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities and minimal supervision.
Effective communication skills for cross-functional coordination.
Self-motivated, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.
Skilled in delivering clear instructions, providing constructive feedback and documenting information accurately
Strong presentation skills with attention to flow, clarity and visual story telling with Presentation tools
Proficiently operate Creo software, Excel, Word, ETC., Programming (PLC, HMI, Vision, Robotics)
Strong organizational skills with a structured approach to project planning and execution.

Responsibilities

Design automated machinery and components using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred; experience in PTC Creo and AutoCAD is a plus).
Read and interpret mechanical prints, electrical schematics, and pneumatic diagrams.
Specify and source components, manage BOMs, and communicate with vendors to ensure design feasibility and cost efficiency.
Create and maintain technical documentation, including setup sheets, process documentation, and operation manuals.
Estimate costs and timelines for new automation programs and participate in review and approval meetings.
Assemble, wire, and plumb mechanical and electrical systems based on engineering designs and schematics.
Use hand tools, shop tools, and fabrication equipment to modify or build parts as needed.
Conduct preliminary testing of built machines, including leak testing, power-up tests, sensor verification, and safety checks.
Redline prints and provide feedback to engineering to improve design for manufacturability and assembly.
Support software/hardware integration and assist with final programming stages.
Participate in all stages of validation and acceptance testing (IAT, FAT, SAT).
Implement machinery on the production floor and establish initial process settings and control parameters.
Maintain deployed automation systems, provide troubleshooting support, and propose long-term solutions to recurring issues.
Provide training to technicians and operators on system use and maintenance.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Quality, Maintenance) throughout the automation lifecycle.
Coordinate new product sample builds and review for manufacturability.
Track project timelines and milestones; proactively manage delays or resource requirements.
Support efforts to keep automation program expenses within budget.
Participate in continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing downtime, enhancing productivity, and improving system safety.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following internal and OSHA safety procedures.
Offer design improvement suggestions based on building and test observations.