Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in New Jersey

The Staff Controls, Automation & Mechatronics Engineer will be at the forefront of designing and implementing advanced automation solutions that drive efficiency, scalability, and quality in our server manufacturing operations. This role requires a strong foundation in Controls and mechatronics engineering, combining mechanical, electrical, and software systems to develop integrated automation solutions.

• Contribute to transformation initiatives, helping set new standards for how we approach manufacturing risk analysis, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Define and implement new systems, processes, or frameworks that support the smart factory vision, including automation, metrology, advanced inspection and testing, and predictive analytics.
• Support NPI (New Product Introduction) by developing scalable automation strategies aligned with product roadmaps.
• Design and implement automated assembly and test equipment for server components, including PCBs, power modules, and cooling systems.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) principles are embedded in new product designs.
• Translate DFM and PFMEA outputs into actionable process controls, ensuring proactive prevention of variation rather than reactive correction.
• Develop and optimize mechatronic systems integrating robotics, sensors, actuators, PLCs, vision systems, motion control and software.
• Leverage data-rich environments and tools to generate insights and drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on yield, reliability, cycle time, and throughput.
• Work with equipment vendors to specify, validate, and install automation solutions for medium-to-high-volume production.
• Apply manufacturing techniques such as precision fastening, soldering, adhesive bonding, and vision‑based inspection.
• Lead tool qualification, process documentation, and operator training for new equipment.
• Use data‑driven methods (SPC, FMEA, DOE) to troubleshoot and enhance manufacturing performance.
• Analyze production workflows to identify automation opportunities and optimize cycle times, throughput, and reliability of automated systems.
• Implement automated inspection and testing systems to ensure product quality.
• Maintain compliance with safety, environmental, and industry standards.
• Create detailed documentation for automated systems, including SOPs and training materials.
• Provide technical support and training to production teams.

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in high-volume, high-complexity manufacturing.
• Proficiency with data-driven tools such as Minitab, JMP, Python, R, SQL (or equivalent) to analyze and interpret large, complex datasets.
• Track record of driving measurable improvements in yield, reliability, or process robustness.
• Background in electronics assembly, PCBA, servers, or other high-reliability industries (e.g., aerospace, medical devices, automotive, semiconductor).
• Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and industrial automation platforms (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, etc.).
• Controls Engineering Skills: Advanced proficiency in PLC programming (Codesys, Siemens, Beckhoff, etc.), HMI/SCADA development, motion control (servo, stepper systems), PID loops, multi-axis control systems, high-speed machine control, automation systems design, robotic cells, automated test equipment, material handling & conveyance systems, industrial protocols (EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet, Modbus TCP), control architectures & safety systems.
• Mechanical & Mechatronics Systems understanding of actuators, sensors, power transmission, machine design; integrating robotics, pneumatics & hydraulics, vision systems, instrumentation & measurement.
• Software & Scripting: Python (automation, data logging, test scripts), C/C++ (embedded systems), MATLAB/Simulink (controls modeling), LabVIEW.
• Nice to Haves: Exposure to AI/ML toolsets for predictive analytics or anomaly detection; MBA or business, finance or economics experience.

• Typical base salary $93,000-$136,400 per year.
• Competitive base salary and performance-based annual bonus eligibility.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous match.
• Tuition reimbursement for eligible education programs.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage; mental health resources and wellness support.
• Paid time off (PTO), company-paid holidays, parental leave and family care support.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Structured training and on-the-job learning opportunities.
• Matching gifts and volunteer program support.

ZT Group Int’l. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. ZT Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.