As a key member of the Production Engineering team, the Automation Equipment Engineer will be responsible for operating, sustaining, and improving advanced, highly automated paint and powder coating manufacturing systems. This role combines hands-on support of electromechanical systems with control systems development and continuous improvement initiatives. You'll collaborate across teams to deliver world-class manufacturing performance and standardization across equipment lines. Candidates with a strong aptitude for learning and solving complex problems in a fast-paced environment will thrive in this role.
Sustain 24/7 production operations by quickly responding to and resolving issues
Develop, debug, and document PLC code (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff) to control robots, conveyors, MES, vision, and third-party equipment
Program and teach industrial 6-axis robots (Fanuc, Kuka, Durr) and sequence complex multi-station automation
Design user-friendly HMI, SCADA, and ANDON interfaces to enhance operator usability and uptime
Drive continuous improvement projects to improve safety, quality, cost, and OEE metrics, including ownership of line- and station-level KPIs
Design NFPA79/NEC/UL508A-compliant control panels and create detailed electrical, pneumatic, and fluid schematics
Conduct risk assessments and implement ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA-compliant safety systems for new or modified equipment
Lead equipment upgrades, retrofits, and repairs with a focus on reliability, process capability, and maintainability
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to standardize controls and automation practices across multiple lines
Take initiative to create and improve standard operating procedures and documentation within your area of ownership
Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, or equivalent experience
5+ years of hands-on experience with automation systems and electromechanical equipment in a manufacturing environment
Proficient in PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell, Beckhoff) and motor controller integration; familiarity with safety PLCs
Experience with industrial robot programming (Fanuc, Kuka, Durr, Cartesian, SCARA, or articulated systems)
Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills under tight timing constraints
Familiarity with paint shop systems and processes: powder supply/reclaim, dust collectors, humidifiers, IR ovens, sealant dispense, conveyors
Experience designing in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, or EPLAN)
Proven ability to support full project lifecycle from scoping through implementation and handoff
Ability to work in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment and provide on-call support as needed
Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset to work across engineering, production, and maintenance teams
Benefits
Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire: