Central Manufacturing Engineer - Automation - Saginaw Operations(2026)

Nexteer•Saginaw, MI

6d•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a highly driven and innovative Central Manufacturing Engineer – Automation to lead the development and deployment of automation solutions across EPS and Driveline operations in Saginaw. This role is ideal for someone with a “can-do” mindset who thrives in fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering practical, cost-effective automation solutions. Positioned within the Central Manufacturing Engineering team, this role will act as a key integrator between plant teams, suppliers, and engineering disciplines—ensuring automation projects are effectively developed, engineered, and executed from concept through successful plant deployment. This position plays a critical role in advancing automation capabilities across the organization—improving safety, efficiency, and scalability while enabling plants to meet evolving production demands.

Requirements

3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience with a strong emphasis on automation
Demonstrated experience leading automation projects from concept through production deployment
Strong working knowledge of: Industrial robotics PLCs, HMIs, and controls systems Sensors, vision systems, and automation hardware
Proven ability to manage projects in a cross-functional, fast-paced environment
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Fundamental understanding of assembly processes (fastening, pressing, dispensing)

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred) for concept development, equipment design, and guarding layouts
Experience supporting equipment installation and production launches within manufacturing plants
Willingness to travel and support plant implementation activities, including occasional off-shift or weekend support
Experience working directly with suppliers, including equipment design reviews and pre-acceptance buy-offs
Exposure to Industry 4.0 technologies, data integration, and smart manufacturing initiatives
Background in high-volume, complex manufacturing environments
Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Experience managing capital projects and budgets
Plant operations experience

Responsibilities

Lead automation projects from concept development through plant implementation and launch
Develop innovative automation concepts in collaboration with plant manufacturing and automation teams
Own and manage project timelines, ensuring alignment with plant and program milestones
Drive capital planning activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and appropriation requests
Ensure all safety requirements, MQ workflows, and technical documentation are completed and compliant
Interface with suppliers for automation equipment (robotics, conveyors, material handling systems), including RFQs, design reviews, and equipment validation
Maintain relationship and forecasting of projects and spending with GSM couterparts
Design and develop end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and specify appropriate machine guarding solutions
Alignment with GSM and plant operations on components and sourcing, preferred brands etc…
Collaborate with controls engineering teams and global automation teams on system architecture, panel design, and integration requirements and global look across
Deliver complete, implementation-ready automation packages to plant teams
Support equipment installation, validation, and launch activities, including on-site troubleshooting as needed
Champion cost-effective solutions by applying creative, non-traditional approaches to minimize capital investment
Create and update PFMEA for new automation solutions