Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.Job OverviewThe Manufacturing Automation Engineer is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing automation solutions across production processes to improve throughput, quality, repeatability, safety, and cost efficiency. This role serves as the primary technical owner for automation projects from concept through production launch, partnering closely with Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams.The ideal candidate combines strong manufacturing process knowledge with automation expertise and plays a critical role in designing products and processes that are optimized for scalable automated production. Following implementation and production stabilization, ownership transitions to Manufacturing Engineering for sustaining support and continuous improvement.ResponsibilitiesAutomation Strategy & Process DevelopmentIdentify manufacturing operations and workflows suitable for automation based on safety, quality, throughput, ergonomic, and cost considerations.Develop automation roadmaps and business cases to support production scaling objectives.Evaluate and recommend automation technologies including robotics, machine vision, PLC-controlled systems, automated assembly equipment, material handling systems, and test automation.Lead feasibility studies, cycle time analysis, and ROI assessments for proposed automation initiatives.Cross-Functional Product & Process DesignPartner with Design Engineering during product development to ensure products are designed for manufacturability and automation (DFMA/DFA).Provide design feedback on tolerances, joining methods, part presentation, fixturing, assembly sequence, and inspection requirements to enable robust automated manufacturing processes.Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to define scalable production architectures and standardized automation strategies.Automation Project OwnershipOwn automation projects from concept development through equipment commissioning and production launch.Define equipment specifications, statement of work (SOW), acceptance criteria, and validation plans for integrators and vendors.Manage automation suppliers and system integrators throughout design, build, FAT, SAT, installation, and startup activities.Coordinate equipment integration with factory infrastructure, MES systems, quality systems, and production controls.Develop and execute process validation plans, capability studies, and production readiness reviews.Production Launch & HandoffSupport pilot builds, process debugging, and ramp-to-rate activities during production launch.Establish documentation packages including work instructions, PM requirements, spare parts lists, control plans, and troubleshooting guides.Train Manufacturing Engineering and Operations teams on system functionality and maintenance requirements.Transition ownership of stable production systems to Manufacturing Engineering for sustaining support and continuous improvement activities.Continuous Improvement & Technical LeadershipDrive improvements in OEE, yield, uptime, cycle time, and labor efficiency through automation initiatives.Standardize automation design practices, controls architecture, and equipment specifications across manufacturing lines.Support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to automated systems during launch phases.Stay current with emerging manufacturing automation technologies and industry best practices.QualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field.5+ years of experience in manufacturing automation, process engineering, or production equipment development.Experience implementing automated manufacturing systems in high-volume or advanced manufacturing environments.Strong understanding of industrial automation systems including robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, pneumatics, servo systems, and machine vision.Experience with manufacturing process development, PFMEA, validation methodologies, and production launch activities.Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and process flow documentation.Experience managing external automation vendors and integrators.Strong project management and cross-functional communication skills.Preferred QualificationsExperience with automated assembly, test automation, or robotic material handling systems.Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical process control methodologies.Experience with controls programming, robot programming, or industrial networking.Knowledge of MES integration, traceability systems, and smart factory/Industry 4.0 concepts.Experience in aerospace, automotive, robotics, electronics, or advanced manufacturing industries.PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or automation-related certifications are a plus.Key CompetenciesAutomation system architectureDesign for automation (DFA/DFM)Production process optimizationEquipment commissioning and validationCross-functional technical leadershipManufacturing scale-up and launch executionVendor and project managementRoot cause analysis and problem solvingPhysical Demands:Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerOccasional standing and walking within the officeManual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipmentVisual acuity to read screens, documents, and reportsOccasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office suppliesLifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)Benefits:Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of servicesSaronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependentsDental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision careSaronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependentsTime Off: Generous PTO and HolidaysParental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parentsCompetitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonusesRetirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company matchStock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s successLife and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coveragePet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helplineAdditional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the officeSaronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California EmployeesIf this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing