Automation Engineer

MW Components•Clear Lake Shores, TX

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Engineer will execute automation and process improvement projects at manufacturing sites to reduce direct labor content and improve productivity. This role involves translating project concepts into practical, scalable automation solutions, and leading the installation, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation equipment. The engineer will work closely with GMs and site leadership to understand project requirements and operational challenges, aligning on project goals, timelines, and success metrics. A key aspect of this role is ensuring the consistent deployment of automation standards across locations and providing hands-on support during project installation and ramp-up phases. The position requires troubleshooting and resolving technical issues in real time, recommending new technologies, and driving the standardization and replication of successful automation solutions across sites. The engineer must ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within scope, while also supporting the long-term sustainability of implemented solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field) or equivalent experience.
3–7+ years of experience in industrial automation, manufacturing engineering, or related field.
Hands-on experience with automation systems (robotics, PLCs, vision systems, conveyors, etc.).
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in a production environment.
Experience managing or implementing cross-functional projects.
Expertise in Lean tools (5S, VSM, Standard Work, SMED, Kanban, Kaizen).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent facilitation, communication, and coaching abilities.
Proficiency with data analysis and project management tools.
Ability to influence cross-functional teams and lead change without direct authority.

Nice To Haves

Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt required; Black Belt preferred).

Responsibilities

Execute automation and process improvement projects at manufacturing sites to reduce direct labor content and improve productivity.
Translate project concepts into practical, scalable automation solutions.
Lead installation, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation equipment.
Work closely with GMs and site leadership to understand project requirements and operational challenges.
Align on project goals, timelines, and success metrics prior to execution.
Ensure consistent deployment of automation standards across locations.
Travel to manufacturing facilities as required (minimum 50%, may increase based on project scope and implementation phase).
Provide hands-on support during project installation and ramp-up phases.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues on-site in real time.
Recommend new technologies, tools, and process improvements.
Drive standardization and replication of successful automation solutions across sites.
Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within scope.
Support long-term sustainability of implemented solutions.