Principal Automation Engineer

Overview:

We are seeking an accomplished Principal Automation Engineer to join our team out of our Global Headquarters in Coopersburg, PA.  In this role, you will drive the architecture, design, development, and deployment of automated systems that improve throughput, quality, and operational efficiency across our production environment with deep expertise in custom automation equipment, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.  This position requires technical mastery, systems-level thinking, and the ability to mentor engineers while collaborating with cross-functional teams and third-party integrators.

Responsibilities:

 

• Lead the specification, development, and validation of custom automated machinery, robotic cells, and integrated manufacturing systems.
• Work closely with our integration partners to architect control system solutions involving PLCs, motion control, robotics, machine vision, industrial networking, and safety systems.
• Define automation standards, best practices, and design methodologies for long-term scalability.
• Serve as the technical lead on large, complex automation projects from concept through start-up in the destination manufacturing facility.
• Develop functional and technical specifications, system layouts, risk assessments, and factory and site acceptance test plans.
• Oversee system integration, debugging, optimization, and factory acceptance testing (FAT/SAT).
• Partner with manufacturing, quality, operations, and product engineering teams to identify automation opportunities and production constraints.
• Support business case development, ROI analysis, and roadmap planning for automation investments.
• Communicate project status, risks, and design decisions to engineering leadership and operations stakeholders.
• Evaluate emerging automation technologies, robotics platforms, sensors, and AI‑enhanced tools for potential adoption.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase reliability, reduce cycle time, and improve manufacturability.
• Champion automation safety, risk reduction, and compliance with all industry standards.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers in robotics, controls, machine design, and project execution.

Qualifications:

 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field.
• 12+ years of experience in automation engineering, with significant hands-on work in custom automation machinery.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.00 for all degrees earned
• Extensive experience overseeing automation projects with full lifecycle ownership of all technical aspects.
• Strong understanding of industrial safety standards (ISO, IEC, ANSI, NFPA).
• Proven ability to drive cross-functional technical discussions and influence strategic decisions.

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