Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Job Description: Junior Equipment Engineer

Location: Manteno, Illinois

Company Overview

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA and is currently building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL, with R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan, and Europe. We innovate next-generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development.

Gotion is a career destination-we are not simply filling jobs, but pursuing a shared vision for global green energy. Every team member plays a vital role in the growth and success of our organization.

Job Summary:

The Junior Equipment Engineer supports the installation, commissioning, maintenance, and optimization of manufacturing equipment used in lithium battery cell production. Working closely with senior equipment engineers, vendors, and production teams, this role focuses on hands-on learning, technical support, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced, automated manufacturing environment.

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build expertise in industrial equipment, automation, and battery manufacturing within a global organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers with the installation, commissioning, and validation of equipment used in:
• Electrode manufacturing
• Coating and calendaring
• Stacking/winding
• Electrolyte injection, sealing, formation, and packaging
• Support equipment acceptance testing (FAT/SAT) and documentation under guidance
• Help coordinate activities with vendors and internal teams during equipment setup

• Support preventive maintenance activities to ensure stable equipment operation and minimize downtime
• Assist in troubleshooting basic mechanical, electrical, and automation-related equipment issues
• Document issues, corrective actions, and maintenance records in accordance with company procedures
• Escalate complex problems to senior engineers as needed

• Collect and analyze basic equipment performance and downtime data
• Support equipment parameter adjustments and optimization efforts under supervision
• Participate in continuous improvement projects related to equipment efficiency, yield, and reliability

• Provide hands-on support to production and maintenance teams during daily operations
• Assist in developing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
• Participate in equipment and safety training sessions to gain technical proficiency

• Support communication with equipment vendors for troubleshooting, spare parts, and technical follow-ups
• Work cross-functionally with process engineering, quality, production, and EHS teams to support manufacturing goals

• Follow company safety policies and EHS requirements at all times
• Support compliance with applicable quality and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO9001, IATF16949)
• Participate in safety inspections, risk assessments, and improvement initiatives as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 0-2 years of engineering experience (internships, co-ops, or project-based experience acceptable)
• Basic understanding of industrial equipment, automation, or manufacturing systems
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals, and equipment documentation
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing / factory environmeny

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship or project experience with automated production equipment
• Basic exposure to PLCs, HMIs, sensors, motors, or servo systems
• Familiarity with CAD software for reviewing equipment layouts or designs
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement principles
• Mandarin language skills are a plus, but not required

Core Competencies

• Technical Learning & Aptitude: Strong desire to build hands-on equipment and automation expertise
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze equipment issues and follow structured troubleshooting approaches
• Team Collaboration: Works effectively with engineers, technicians, operators, and vendors
• Attention to Detail: Accurate documentation and adherence to procedures
• Safety Awareness: Proactive approach to safe equipment operation and compliance
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing environment

Travel & Work Environment

• Occasional domestic or international travel may be required for training or vendor support
• Ability to support off-shift activities may be required during equipment installation or ramp-up phases