Automation Engineer (Hemlock, MI, US, 48626)

Requisition Number: 77015

The company built on breakthroughs.

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Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.

Come break through with us.

Our Solar business delivers industry leading, U.S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, leveraging our leadership in advanced manufacturing to serve growing energy demand. You will be a part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.

Role Purpose

The Automation Engineer provides support for day-to-day manufacturing operations with designing and troubleshooting automation equipment including packaging systems, logic controllers, power distribution, vision systems, safety devices, automated guided vehicles, and sensors. The candidate will work on assignments including designing self-contained automation/controls systems integrated with existing plant equipment. Judgment and troubleshooting skills will be required to resolve problems with the various automation systems. The candidate will receive general instructions and directions on routine work but will be expected to work autonomously often. The candidate will have a working knowledge of common electrical assembly techniques and major activities will be performed in a team environment under general supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders to assess manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for automation, including assembly, machining, material handling, and quality control.
• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions, including robotic systems, PLC-based control systems, vision systems, and integrated software applications, to streamline production processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Program and configure automation equipment and systems, ensuring seamless integration with existing manufacturing infrastructure and adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Analyze manufacturing data and performance metrics to identify areas for process optimization and efficiency improvement.
• Develop and implement automation strategies to reduce cycle times, minimize waste, increase throughput, and enhance product quality.
• Conduct root cause analysis and troubleshooting of automation-related issues, implementing corrective actions and preventive measures to ensure continuous operation.
• Lead automation projects from concept to completion, including scope definition, resource allocation, timeline management, and budget control.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external vendors, and contractors to ensure successful implementation of automation solutions within established project parameters.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide regular updates and reports on project status, milestones, and deliverables to stakeholders, facilitating effective communication and decision-making.
• Provide training and technical support to manufacturing personnel on the operation and maintenance of automation equipment and systems.
• Share expertise and best practices in automation technologies with colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development within the organization.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and company policies related to automation and occupational safety.
• Conduct risk assessments and safety reviews of automation systems, implementing safeguards and control measures to mitigate hazards and ensure a safe working environment.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering preferred) or related field.

• 1-5 years of experience and electrical/automation troubleshooting experience

• Experience integrating systems into advanced manufacturing processes

Work Hours

• Standard Hours (Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm)

• Flexible hours may be required to support weekends/evenings operations requirements (including coverage for shift supervisors on 12hr shift rotation as needed).

Required Skills

• Strong electro-mechanical aptitude with demonstrated experience implementing, integrating, and troubleshooting automation and control systems in a manufacturing environment.

• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting. Experience with Mitsubishi PLCs is preferred; Allen Bradley, Siemens, or comparable industrial control platforms are also valued.

• Experience supporting and integrating industrial robotics, machine vision systems, sensors, safety systems, and automated material handling equipment. Experience with FANUC, KUKA, and Keyence technologies is preferred.

• Ability to effectively collaborate with machine builders, system integrators, contractors, and equipment suppliers during equipment design, commissioning, startup, and integration activities.

• Experience supporting manufacturing operations through automation system troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Familiarity with software development tools and programming languages used in automation environments, such as C#, Python, Visual Studio, or similar technologies.

• Strong team player who takes ownership of technical issues and drives problems through resolution.

• Capable of executing project assignments independently with minimal supervision.

• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills with a strong focus on safety, reliability, and operational excellence.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of electrical design standards
• Knowledge of the Performance Excellence programs (DMAIC, KT, etc.).
• Experience with programming software including Visual Studio, C#, Python.

Soft Skills

• Technical curiosity

• Able to communicate equally well with various levels of the organization (engineers, production associates, and managers).

• Able to work in a team-oriented environment

• Self-motivated

• Good presentation skills

• Able to handle multiple priorities

• High commitment level

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $82,974.00 - $114,090.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.

A job that shapes a life.

Corning offers you the total package.

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

• Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
• As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
• Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
• Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.