Automation Engineer

CMD CORPORATION•Appleton, WI

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Engineer is responsible for designing and developing custom automated machinery, robotic systems, and manufacturing equipment to meet customer and business requirements. This role combines mechanical engineering and machine design expertise with a strong understanding of automation technologies, robotics, motion control, and machine integration. The Automation Engineer collaborates with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams throughout the project lifecycle, from concept development through installation and startup.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
5+ years of experience in machine design, automation engineering, robotics integration, or custom equipment development.
Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
Experience designing automated machinery, tooling, fixtures, and mechanical systems.
Working knowledge of industrial automation, robotics, motion control, PLCs, HMIs, and pneumatic systems.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic drawings.
Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate effectively with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
Willingness to travel occasionally to support customer meetings, installations, and commissioning activities.
Must be authorized to work in the United States and adhere to CMD’s confidentiality agreement(s).

Nice To Haves

Experience with robotics integration, material handling, assembly, product handling, casepacking, palletizing, etc. highly desired.
Experience with FANUC or other industrial robotic systems.
Familiarity with Rockwell and/or Beckhoff automation platforms and hardware.
Understanding of automation systems and components is preferred; PLC, HMI, and robot programming experience a plus, but not required.
Experience with packaging, material handling, assembly, or custom automation equipment.
Knowledge of machine safety standards and risk assessment practices.

Responsibilities

Design and develop custom automated machinery, machine assemblies, tooling, fixtures, and robotic work cells.
Create machine layouts, 3D CAD models, detail drawings, and bills of materials using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
Develop innovative automation solutions for manufacturing, assembly, material handling, case packing, cartoning, inspection, and palletizing applications.
Evaluate and select mechanical, pneumatic, robotic, and automation components based on performance, cost, and reliability requirements.
Collaborate with Controls Engineers to define system architecture, machine operation, safety requirements, and equipment functionality.
Support robotic integrations, including robot selection, reach studies, payload analysis, and end-of-arm tooling design.
Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project planning activities to define requirements and present technical solutions.
Prepare concepts, specifications, technical documentation, engineering estimates, and project support materials.
Assist manufacturing and assembly teams with troubleshooting, design improvements, and technical problem resolution.
Support machine testing, validation, factory acceptance testing (FAT), installation, and commissioning activities.
Review mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls documentation to ensure proper system integration.
Maintain engineering documentation, drawings, change records, and design standards.
Ensure designs comply with applicable safety, quality, and industry standards.
Research emerging technologies and recommend improvements to increase machine performance, reliability, and efficiency.
Travel to customer locations as needed to support project development, installation, startup, and technical support activities.