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1. SENIOR AUTOMATION ENGINEER

Job Title: Senior Automation Engineer Location: Chanhassen, MN Industry: Manufacturing / Automation / Fiber Optics

Detailed Job Description:

We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to lead the design and development of custom automation equipment in a high-volume fiber optics manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on improving quality, increasing capacity, and reducing manufacturing costs through innovative equipment and tooling solutions.

The right candidate will bring strong experience in custom machine design, automation equipment development, and cross-functional collaboration across mechanical, controls, electrical, software, and manufacturing teams. This position is based onsite in the southwest metro area of Minneapolis and will support both local and global manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design and development of custom automation equipment and tooling for manufacturing applicationsConduct feasibility studies, cost analysis, and risk assessments for new automation projectsDevelop machine concepts to improve product quality, reduce cycle time, and lower operating costsSupport new equipment development through brainstorming, prototyping, bench testing, and feasibility trialsDesign mechanical systems with a focus on manufacturability, ease of assembly, maintainability, and operator usabilityWork closely with manufacturing teams to understand process constraints and identify automation opportunitiesCollaborate with controls, electrical, software, and production teams to integrate equipment into manufacturing operationsCreate complete engineering documentation packages including drawings, BOMs, assembly instructions, and maintenance guidelinesSelect and specify commercial components such as actuators, pneumatics, sensors, and related automation hardwareParticipate in hands-on assembly, setup, calibration, testing, process development, and equipment qualificationLead design reviews and provide technical guidance to junior engineersManage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables from concept through commissioningAnalyze process and performance data using tools such as Excel or Minitab to support development and qualificationEnsure designs meet safety requirements, engineering standards, and company policiesTravel to manufacturing sites as needed to support project intake, development, installation, and deployment

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline8+ years of experience in automation engineering, mechanical engineering, or custom equipment designStrong proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD toolsProven background designing custom automated equipment for a manufacturing environmentExperience working with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systemsAbility to work directly with automation equipment during build, debug, testing, and qualificationStrong project ownership and ability to lead work from design through commissioningExcellent communication skills and ability to work across global, cross-functional teamsAbility to travel up to 15%

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with PTC CreoStrong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysisExperience in manufacturing operations or production engineeringFamiliarity with SolidWorks PDM or other CAD data management toolsExperience with new process development and equipment qualificationExposure to emerging technologies including AI-enabled engineering tools

Key Skills:

Senior Automation Engineer, Automation Equipment Design, Custom Machine Design, Mechanical Design, Manufacturing Engineering, SolidWorks, PLC, HMI, Industrial Automation, Tooling Design, Equipment Qualification, Process Improvement, Fiber Optics, Chanhassen MN

GCS is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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