Automation Engineer

Who We Are

We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data centers, 5G networks, and AI infrastructure shaping the next decade, and our customers need them in weeks, not months. In five years we've grown to a team of 200+ and 4x'd our revenue in the last year alone, and we're just getting started. We're looking for people who want to do their best work with a team that's moving fast.

About the Role

You'll design and build one-of-a-kind automation machines that power fiber optic manufacturing. This is hands-on work where you'll solve complex problems integrating machine vision, precision motion control, and mechanical design. You'll own projects from concept through deployment and see your solutions directly improve how we produce for the world's biggest cloud providers.

• Design and build novel automation machines from concept through deployment, integrating machine vision, precision motion control, and custom mechanical assemblies
• Bridge automation and human process, integrating complex mechanized systems into highly optimized manual manufacturing workflows
• Own the full design cycle in SolidWorks, from initial concept and part design to physical prototyping, iteration, and troubleshooting
• Improve what exists, applying design experiments and statistical analysis to refine and evolve machines over time
• Collaborate constantly across engineering, operations, and production teams to deliver solutions that actually work on the floor

What You'll Bring

• Have a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field
• Have at least 3 years delivering end-to-end industrial automation solutions from concept to deployment (5 to 10 years is ideal)
• Have designed, fabricated, and deployed new automation machines that meaningfully improve factory output and quality
• Have hands-on experience with motion control systems, vision systems, and embedded hardware like Jetson Nano and Raspberry Pi
• Are proficient in SolidWorks, Python, C/C++, and PLC programming (Siemens or Allen Bradley)

Want to read the full job description? Automation Engineer JD

What's in it for you?

• Robust health, dental, and vision coverage that starts on day 1
• 401(k) with 4% match, vests immediately after a 90-day waiting period
• Flexible PTO that grows over time
• 10 paid holidays, including 2 floating holidays
• Monthly team events
• Click here to view our full benefits overview.

Location: Naperville, IL

Schedule: Mon–Fri | Onsite

Compensation: $75,000 to $95,000 base, plus annual bonus

We're building something big, and we want good people along for the ride. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today.