Automation Design Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automation / Machine Design Engineer

THIS POSITION IS LOCATED ONSITE AT SAMTEC'S HEADQUARTERS IN NEW ALBANY, IN

Design the Future of Advanced Manufacturing at Samtec

At Samtec, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a highly driven Automation / Machine Design Engineer to help transform manufacturing through the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge automation systems, custom machinery, precision tooling, and production fixtures.

This is an opportunity to take ownership of projects from concept through production, working with cross-functional teams to create innovative equipment that improves efficiency, quality, safety, and reliability across our global manufacturing operations.

If you're passionate about machine design, automation, problem-solving, and seeing your ideas come to life on the production floor, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do

As an Automation / Machine Design Engineer, you will play a key role in developing world-class manufacturing solutions by:

Lead Innovative Automation Projects

• Design and develop custom automation equipment, production machinery, tooling, and fixtures.
• Take projects from concept and design through fabrication, assembly, testing, and production implementation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand manufacturing challenges and develop creative engineering solutions.

Drive Engineering Excellence

• Ensure quality, reliability, safety, and manufacturability are incorporated into every design from the start.
• Develop clear project requirements, technical specifications, and measurable success criteria.
• Create detailed engineering documentation, drawings, and design packages using SolidWorks.

Manage Project Execution

• Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and timelines.
• Monitor project progress and provide regular updates to leadership and project teams.
• Manage supplier evaluations, quotations, vendor relationships, and project cost controls.
• Track engineering changes and maintain project revision documentation.

Collaborate Across Teams

• Partner with Manufacturing, Applications Engineering, Controls Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams.
• Lead project meetings to review equipment design, controls integration, project status, risks, and deliverables.
• Identify issues early and develop effective contingency and recovery plans to ensure project success.

Champion Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all designs comply with OSHA, ANSI, and applicable safety standards.
• Promote best practices in engineering design, risk assessment, and machine safety.

What Makes You Successful

You are a hands-on engineer who enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You balance technical expertise with strong project management skills and can effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

QualificationsRequired Experience

• 5+ years of experience in one or more of the following:
• Automation Machine Design
• Manufacturing Equipment Design
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
• Precision Tooling
• Machine Tools
• Industrial Automation Systems
• High-Speed Assembly Equipment (preferred)

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in SolidWorks is desired.  3D modeling is required
• Working knowledge of:
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Microsoft Project
• SharePoint
• Engineering documentation and project management tools
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes.

Professional Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Self-motivated, organized, and results-oriented.
• Strong teamwork and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.

Why Join Samtec?

At Samtec, you'll have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that directly impact manufacturing innovation and operational excellence. You'll collaborate with talented engineers, contribute to state-of-the-art automation solutions, and see your designs implemented in real-world production environments.

We offer a culture that values:

• Innovation and continuous improvement
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Technical growth and professional development
• Ownership and accountability
• Quality and customer focus

If you're ready to design the next generation of manufacturing automation and leave a lasting impact on a global organization, we encourage you to apply.

Samtec is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees can thrive.