Sr Process & Automation Engineer

FormFactor•Livermore, CA

About The Position

The Sr Process & Automation Engineer supports the development, implementation, qualification, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing processes and equipment. The role applies engineering principles, programming, data analysis, and hands-on technical skills to develop automation solutions that improve manufacturing capability, consistency, efficiency, and reliability. The engineer works with Manufacturing, Engineering, technicians, equipment vendors, and cross-functional partners to execute automation projects, qualify processes and equipment, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and support design for manufacturability. The position combines software, equipment, robotics, and hands-on problem solving in a manufacturing environment. Regular hours are day shift. The role is based in Livermore, California, and the stated annual pay range is $90,500 to $118,755, depending on experience, skills, and background. The posting describes a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off, quarterly profit-sharing bonuses, and flexible spending or savings accounts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or an advanced degree without experience; or equivalent work experience.
Working knowledge of manufacturing equipment, automation systems, robotics, and engineering principles.
Programming or scripting skills to develop solutions integrating software and hardware.
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret process and equipment data.
Working knowledge of statistical analysis methods and analytical reporting.
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to safely assemble, disassemble, and work with precision components.
Ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues using logical, structured, and data-driven approaches.
Ability to interpret technical specifications, equipment requirements, drawings, and related engineering documentation.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage assigned engineering activities and changing priorities while meeting project objectives.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical findings clearly.

Responsibilities

Execute automation projects from defined requirements through implementation, including design, analysis, testing, and project scope development.
Develop scripts and software programs to automate manufacturing processes and integrate equipment, hardware, and related systems.
Build, configure, test, and deploy robotic solutions for manufacturing processes to achieve defined performance requirements.
Support development of standardized automation equipment and user requirement specifications.
Contribute to equipment and component standardization, manufacturing data standards, and standardized safety risk assessments.
Use engineering principles and hands-on troubleshooting to identify and resolve automation and equipment issues.
Monitor emerging automation technologies and relevant industry and academic developments for potential manufacturing applications.
Support development, implementation, and improvement of manufacturing processes and automation technologies.
Manage assigned qualification activities for new manufacturing processes, measurement systems, and testing equipment.
Develop and execute testing and validation activities to evaluate process and equipment performance.
Analyze test and process data, document findings, and communicate results and recommendations to stakeholders.
Apply statistical analysis techniques to manufacturing data, equipment performance, and process results.
Partner with Design Engineering to incorporate design-for-manufacturability considerations into products and processes.
Provide day-to-day sustaining engineering support and assist technicians with escalated equipment, automation, and process issues.
Troubleshoot manufacturing equipment and process problems using structured, data-driven problem-solving methods.
Perform hands-on assembly and disassembly of delicate, precision mechanical components as needed for troubleshooting, equipment development, and process improvement.
Work with equipment vendors and end users to support equipment implementation, troubleshooting, and training.
Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, process consistency, manufacturing efficiency, and operational performance.
Create and maintain technical documentation, equipment requirements, test results, process instructions, and engineering reports.
Develop training materials and provide training on automation equipment, processes, and technologies.
Support standardization of automation practices, equipment requirements, and manufacturing processes.
Participate in continuous improvement activities and make engineering recommendations based on data, testing, and manufacturing observations.
Share technical knowledge and lessons learned with technicians, engineers, and other manufacturing partners.