Automation Engineer

ThermoFlex

Waukegan, IL

Pay: $85,000+/yr

Shift: Full time

**Summary**

We are seeking a skilled and mechanically inclined Automation Engineer. The Automation Engineer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems that support high-volume injection molding operations, specifically large tonnage molding machinery. This role will focus on optimizing production efficiency, improving process consistency, reducing downtime, and supporting the integration of robotics, PLCs, and auxiliary equipment. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently or as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.

**Essential Duties & Responsibilities**

• Design, program, and troubleshoot automation systems for injection molding equipment, robotics, and downstream processes
• Develop and implement control strategies for large-tonnage injection molding machines and associated automation cells
• Collaborate with process engineers, maintenance, and production teams to identify and execute automation improvements that increase efficiency and reduce scrap
• Maintain and improve PLC programs and HMI interfaces
• Lead integration projects for new automated cells, end-of-arm tooling, conveyors, and quality inspection systems
• Manage documentation, electrical schematics, and system configuration for all automated projects
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices in all automation design and implementation
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and production personnel on automation systems
• Participate in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives related to process automation
• Other duties as assigned in Management’s sole discretion

**Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities**

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, automation, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in automation engineering, within the injection molding industry preferred
• Proficient with PLC Programming
• Experience with articulating and linear robotic systems (Kuka, Krauss Maffei, Wittman, Fanuc, Engle preferred)
• Strong understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
• Knowledge of industrial networks and machine communication protocols
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawings
• Strong problem solving, analytical, and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects at once
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities

**Working Conditions & Physical Requirements**

• Must have flexible working schedule to support molding operations
• Repetitive bending/reaching
• Standing for sustained periods to time
• Must be able to lift to 45 pounds without accommodation

THESE MAY NOT BE THE ONLY DUTIES YOU

WILL BE ERQUIRED TO PERFORM. THE REQUIREMENTS DESCRIBED

HERE ARE REPRESENTATIVE AND MAY VARY FROM WHAT

IT DESCRIBED. PURSUANT TO COMPANY POLICY

,

ACCOMMODATIONS MAY BE MADE TO ENABLE YOU TO

PERFORM THE FUNCTIONS DESCRIBED HEREIN. NOTHING IN THIS

DOCUMENT ALTERS YOUR AT WILL EMPLOYMENT STATUS AND

NOTHING HEREIN ESTABLISHES A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT. THIS

JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT THE

SOLE DISCRETION OF MANAGEMENT

.