Advanced Manufacturing Engineer - Automation

Our employer is a leading provider of premium metal payment cards and secure authentication solutions. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company serves major financial institutions, producing over 30 million metal cards annually and holding a dominant share in the premium metal card segment. It also offers advanced digital security through a proprietary platform that includes three-factor authentication and cold storage for digital assets, generating over $420 million in annual sales.Salary range: 85-150k USDAnnual Bonus: Up to 15% (contingent upon a combination of company's and personal performance).Position SummaryWe are seeking an Advanced Manufacturing Engineer (Automation) who will perform the planning, design, and implementation of automation solutions across our production lines. This role involves designing and building custom machines in-house as well as managing external integrators to deliver turnkey automation systems. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in machine design, supplier management, and project execution in high-volume manufacturing environments.This position is critical to driving automation initiatives that improve efficiency, scalability, and quality in a multi-million-unit-per-year production setting.Key ResponsibilitiesAutomation System Design & ImplementationDesign and develop custom automation equipment using SolidWorks.Lead full lifecycle of automation projects: concept, design, build, installation, and validation.Collaborate with external integrators and manage suppliers for outsourced machine builds.Production Line AutomationPlan and implement automation solutions for assembly and packaging lines.Integrate robotics, PLCs, vision systems, and material handling equipment.Project ManagementDevelop project timelines, budgets, and resource plans.Ensure projects meet performance, quality, and safety standards.Safety & ComplianceEnsure all automation systems comply with OSHA, environmental, and company safety standards.Implement risk assessments, machine guarding, and lockout/tagout procedures.Maintain documentation for regulatory compliance and audits.Continuous ImprovementIdentify automation opportunities to reduce labor, improve throughput, and enhance quality.Drive cost reduction and efficiency initiatives through innovative automation solutions.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.Experience5+ years of hands-on experience in machine design and automation engineering.Proven track record of designing, building, and installing machines in high-volume manufacturing environments.Technical ExpertiseSolidWorks proficiency for machine and fixture design.Strong knowledge of automation technologies: robotics, PLC programming, vision systems, conveyors, and material handling.Experience with supplier management and working with external integrators.Understanding of system design, defect analysis, and process optimization.Familiarity with SPC, Six Sigma, and DoE methodologies for data-driven improvements.Ability to troubleshoot automation and mechanical issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.PreferredExperience designing full production lines.Familiarity with high-speed automation for multi-million-unit production.Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.Exposure to ISO 13485 or automotive quality standards.Experience with robotic integration, automated quality inspection, and vision systems.Our employer believes in supporting our employees with a comprehensive benefits package that promotes health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Our full-time team members enjoy access to:Medical, Dental & Vision CoverageFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Company-Paid Life and Disability Insurance401(k) with Company MatchPaid Time Off & Paid HolidaysAnnual Bonus OpportunitiesEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Career Advancement Opportunities**** Benefits eligibility and details will be shared during the hiring process.