Automation Engineer
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Job Location:
Knoxville, TN - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not Disclosed
Posted on:
07-11-2025
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Automation Engineer Custom Equipment & Production Integration
Knoxville TN Technical Response Inc. (TRI) Full-Time
Technical Response Inc. (TRI) is a rapidly growing Knoxville-based manufacturer and automation integrator specializing in injection molding blow molding and custom automation solutions. We deliver cost-effective reliable automation systems by combining high-quality overseas components with local engineering and integration expertise.
Were looking for an Automation Engineer to design integrate and support automation systems for both our internal plastics production lines and our clients custom equipment. Youll work on PLC programming robotics motion systems and hands-on commissioning in a collaborative fast-paced environment.
What Youll Do
Design and integrate automation systems for molding and packaging lines.
Program and troubleshoot PLCs HMIs sensors and robotics.
Support installation commissioning and process improvement.
Collaborate with mechanical electrical and production teams.
Join a company that values Integrity Teamwork and Continuous Improvement and be part of a team driving automation innovation in U.S. manufacturing.
Apply today and grow with us at TRI!
Automation Engineer Custom Equipment & Production Integration
Location: Knoxville TN (37931)
Company: Technical Response Inc. (TRI)
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Technical Response Inc. (TRI)
Technical Response Inc. (TRI) is a fast-growing U.S. manufacturer and automation integrator based in Knoxville Tennessee. We specialize in plastics manufacturing (injection molding and blow molding) along with customized automation and integration services.
Our unique strength lies in combining cost-effective overseas automation components with U.S.-based design engineering and integration providing reliable scalable solutions for both our own production lines and small to mid-sized manufacturers across industries.
We pride ourselves on delivering value-added automation systems that empower clients who may not have in-house automation resources. Our core values Integrity Teamwork and Continuous Improvement define how we innovate collaborate and grow together.
Position Summary
Were seeking a hands-on creative Automation Engineer to join our growing team. This role offers the best of both worlds: designing and integrating automation systems for TRIs in-house plastics production lines (including injection and blow molding processes) as well as for external customer projects involving custom automation equipment.
The ideal candidate is passionate about practical problem-solving automation technology and seeing projects through from concept to commissioning. Youll work cross-functionally with mechanical electrical and production teams and coordinate with overseas suppliers to deliver efficient high-performing systems.
Key Responsibilities
Design program and integrate automation systems for TRIs in-house molding operations and for external customers.
Develop and debug PLC and HMI programs (Allen-Bradley Siemens Omron Beckhoff Mitsubishi etc.).
Oversee automation build wiring and integration; perform on-site commissioning and troubleshooting.
Implement automation improvements to increase production efficiency reduce labor and enhance product quality.
Work closely with TRIs mechanical engineers production managers and overseas component suppliers.
Prepare wiring diagrams system layouts user manuals and test procedures.
Support ongoing process enhancements and standardization efforts across TRIs production operations.
Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering Mechatronics Automation Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience).
25 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation or equipment integration.
Experience with injection molding or blow molding automation preferred.
Familiarity with PLCs HMIs servo motion robotics and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP Modbus Profinet).
Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or similar design software.
Excellent teamwork and communication abilities.
Capable of managing multiple automation projects in a fast-paced environment.
Willingness to travel occasionally for project installation and support.
Preferred Experience (a Plus)
Robotic integration (Fanuc UR ABB Epson etc.)
Machine vision systems (Cognex Keyence etc.)
Plastic process automation (pick-and-place trimming packaging)
Experience working with overseas suppliers and component sourcing
Understanding of industrial safety standards (NFPA ISO CE ASME)
Why Join TRI
Join a high-growth company shaping the future of automation and plastics manufacturing in the U.S.
Work on diverse projects from in-house production automation to external client systems.
Thrive in a team-first culture built on Integrity Teamwork and Continuous Improvement.
Enjoy a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment with real opportunities for growth.
Competitive pay benefits and a chance to make a visible impact every day.
Key Skills
- Continuous Integration
- APIs
- Automotive software
- Test Cases
- Electrical Engineering
- Junit
- Distributed Control Systems
- Testng
- Java
- Test Automation
- Programmable Logic Controllers
- Selenium
About Company
Innovate International, a plastic injection molding manufacturer, is your one stop supply chain management partner with a complete suite of development and manufacturing services.
