Automation Program Manager Jobs in Meriden, CT (NOW HIRING)

Onsite position located in Ansonia, CT.
Please note that relocation assistance is not provided for this position, and candidates must currently reside within a commutable distance or be prepared to relocate at their own expense
Westfall Technik is a global holding company which provides innovative plastics manufacturing solutions to the healthcare, consumer package goods and light industrial vertical markets. The site locations, operating within the Westfall Technik enterprise, are internationally aligned with unmatched global reach in the industry. Our proprietary Stacked Integration Model ™ enables us to operate leveraging a high degree of specialization, extensive capacities in end-to-end design, production and assembly, and first-class references in high-end manufacturing.
ONE WESTFALL
Competitive advantages such as vertical integration, speed-to-market and advanced manufacturing systems allow us to streamline our processes and be a complete solution provider positively impacting our customers' business. We are powered by experienced people with diversified capabilities and specialties. We pride ourselves in developing customized solutions with precision and care. So, while there is complexity to what we do; we simplify the process to deliver a customer experience that is enjoyable and easy; providing a single point of accountability.
ALL IN.
This simple phrase captures what Westfall Technik is all about. The statement embodies the company's commitment to total support, complete manufacturing capabilities and its bold approach. It is our internal rallying cry. It is our philosophy. Nothing half-hearted.
Associates (and Customers) can be confident that this mantra drives the organization to be nimble, scalable and comprehensive ----no matter how complex the customers' challenge.
We look forward to having an interesting conversation with you.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Title: Automation Engineer / Senior Technician
Position: Full Time, Exempt
Location: Ansonia, CT
SUMMARY OF ROLE
The Automation Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of automation systems, including design, fabrication, assembly, testing, installation, troubleshooting, and support of automated machinery and equipment. This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation solutions across the manufacturing floor. The position also supports continuous improvement initiatives and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure machines meet performance, safety, and quality standards.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Design & Engineering
• Design automated machinery and components using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred; experience in PTC Creo and AutoCAD is a plus).
Read and interpret mechanical prints, electrical schematics, and pneumatic diagrams.
• Specify and source components, manage BOMs, and communicate with vendors to ensure design feasibility and cost efficiency.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including setup sheets, process documentation, and operation manuals.
• Estimate costs and timelines for new automation programs and participate in review and approval meetings.
2. Machine Building & Assembly
• Assemble, wire, and plumb mechanical and electrical systems based on engineering designs and schematics.
• Use hand tools, shop tools, and fabrication equipment to modify or build parts as needed.
• Conduct preliminary testing of built machines, including leak testing, power-up tests, sensor verification, and safety checks.
• Redline prints and provide feedback to engineering to improve design for manufacturability and assembly.
3. Testing, Implementation & Support
• Support software/hardware integration and assist with final programming stages.
• Participate in all stages of validation and acceptance testing (IAT, FAT, SAT).
• Implement machinery on the production floor and establish initial process settings and control parameters.
• Maintain deployed automation systems, provide troubleshooting support, and propose long-term solutions to recurring issues.
• Provide training to technicians and operators on system use and maintenance.
4. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Management
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Quality, Maintenance) throughout the automation lifecycle.
• Coordinate new product sample builds and review for manufacturability.
• Track project timelines and milestones; proactively manage delays or resource requirements.
• Support efforts to keep automation program expenses within budget.
5. Continuous Improvement & Safety
• Participate in continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing downtime, enhancing productivity, and improving system safety.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following internal and OSHA safety procedures.
• Offer design improvement suggestions based on building and test observations.
6. Other Duties as Assigned:
• Take on additional responsibilities as needed to support the team and meet operational priorities.
SPECIFIC SKILL SET
CommunicatioN - Skilled in delivering clear instructions, providing constructive feedback and documenting information accurately
Presentation - Strong presentation skills with attention to flow, clarity and visual story telling with Presentation tools
System - Proficiently operate Creo software, Excel, Word, ETC., Programming (PLC, HMI, Vision, Robotics)
Analytics - Strong organizational skills with a structured approach to project planning and execution.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of combined experience in automation design, assembly, machine building, and testing.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment with both design and hands-on fabrication required.
• Proficient in SolidWorks; working knowledge of PTC Creo and AutoCAD is an advantage.
• Ability to read and create electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Familiar with PLCs, sensors, pneumatics, control panels, and industrial automation systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, with proficiency in using shop tools and assembly techniques.
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and basic CAD operations.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Able to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities and minimal supervision.
• Effective communication skills for cross-functional coordination.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment is usually in an office within a manufacturing facility with low to moderate noise level. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Ability to work well with others, one on one, remote, via video and phone.
• Ability to work independently
Westfall -Technik is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, religious creed,
Strong presentation skills with attention to flow, clarity and visual story telling with Presentation tools
Proficiently operate Creo software, Excel, Word, ETC., Programming (PLC, HMI, Vision, Robotics)
Strong organizational skills with a structured approach to project planning and execution.