Sr. Automation Engineer

Company Overview:PTA Plastics an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding contract manufacturing and tool-building industry is looking for a Sr. Automation Engineer to join our dynamic PTA Plastics were more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device defense homeland security and technology sectors constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee-owned company every team member has a stake in our success creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation Summary:The Sr. Automation Engineer leads the development optimization and strategic advancement of automation systems to improve the efficiency scalability and performance of manufacturing operations. This role serves as a technical leader driving innovation mentoring team members and partnering cross-functionally to implement best-in-class automation : $90000-$115000 annuallyEssential Duties/Responsibilities:The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for leading and enhancing fabrication manufacturing and assembly processes including but not limited to:Lead the development and execution of advanced manufacturing and assembly strategies across product lines. Serve as a technical expert and primary point of contact for automation systems robotics and process integration. Partner with Engineering Manufacturing Tooling and Quality to define scalable robust processes for current and future products. Drive root cause analysis and resolution of complex production issues; implement sustainable corrective actions. Lead the introduction and validation of new products equipment and automation systems into manufacturing. Proactively identify and execute continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency reduce cost and improve quality. Establish and monitor KPIs for automation performance downtime and process capability. Lead capital equipment justification specification and implementation efforts. Develop and standardize best practices for automation design programming and integration. Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and Duties/Responsibilities:Lead mold samplings and ensure comprehensive documentation of: Work instructions (including packaging fixtures EOAT with visual aids as needed) Tooling and process improvements required to meet performance standards Design and optimize workstation layouts automation cells and product flow for molding and finishing operations. Oversee creation validation and continuous improvement of job books and manufacturing documentation. Evaluate and improve equipment capability reliability and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Lead MRB activities and support resolution of nonconforming product through structured problem-solving. Own and drive Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to closure. Provide leadership in tool design reviews launch activities and new product development initiatives. Manage complex automation and tooling projects ensuring timelines budgets and performance targets are met. Collaborate with suppliers and subcontractors to improve automation performance delivery and quality. Support quoting and cost estimation activities with advanced process and automation insights. Champion continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing efforts across the organization. Perform other duties as & Requirements:Experience & Education:Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Mechatronics Engineering or related field required. Masters degree in Engineering or related field preferred. Equivalent experience consideration:Extensive hands-on experience in automation robotics or manufacturing 710 years of experience in automation manufacturing engineering or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience. Proven experience leading automation projects and implementing advanced manufacturing solutions. Communication Skills:Strong verbal written and interpersonal communication to present technical concepts and project updates to cross-functional teams and Knowledge:Deep expertise in tooling automation systems and manufacturing processes. Advanced experience in fixture design and End of Arm Tooling (EOAT). Strong hands-on experience with: PLC programming and troubleshooting Robotics (integration programming and optimization) Vision systems and sensors Pneumatics hydraulics and motion control systems Strong understanding of electrical systems including low voltage controls and three-phase power. Expertise in machine safety standards and risk assessments. Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks). Ability to design interpret and troubleshoot electrical schematics and mechanical drawings. Experience with emerging technologies (e.g. 3D printing advanced automation Industry 4.0) preferred. Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:Advanced analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to solve complex technical understanding of systems integration and process knowledge of industrial networking and automation communication & Computer Skills:Proficiency in Microsoft Office with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing with data analysis tools and automation-related software & Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to lead projects and influence cross-functional mentoring and developing engineers and technical collaboration skills with internal teams and external partners. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand walk and move around the production floor for extended of lifting and carrying heavy objects weighing up to 50 dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling small tools machine components and to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses gloves and ear bending kneeling and reaching to access equipment and perform maintenance vision and color perception for inspecting parts and identifying any defects or to work in temperature-controlled environments and withstand exposure to noise levels associated with manufacturing to receive comprehend and utilize required training from OSHA and Company including but not limited to the following:Hazard CommunicationLock Out/Tag OutFirst Aid and CPR (optional)Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance StatementPTA Plastics is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment PTA Plastics will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations in the hiring process and in the you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process or to perform essential job functions please contact to theColorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA)and theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) PTA Plastics does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in any aspect of employment including hiring job assignments promotions compensation benefits training discipline and job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities duties and skills required. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.