Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Austin, Texas (Onsite)$120,000-160,000 Base SalaryFull-Time, Direct-HireRelocation Assistance AvailableKey HighlightsOwnership of designing and building automation processes for a manufacturing facility from the ground upWorking on production of advanced solar cell technology (wafer-based manufacturing)Must come from a manufacturing / factory environment OverviewOur client is hiring an Automation Engineer to support a high-volume manufacturing environment building advanced hardware systems. This is a hands-on role where you will own automation systems from initial design through commissioning and into full production operations.Day-to-Day ResponsibilitiesLead automation projects from concept and equipment design through commissioning and production rampDesign and program PLC-based control systems with a focus on structured, maintainable codeSupport development of manufacturing lines, including machine coordination and process flowCollaborate with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to bring new equipment onlineTroubleshoot and improve automated systems on the factory floorDesign and support electrical systems, control panels, and industrial componentsEnsure systems meet safety standards and operate reliably in productionRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field5+ years of experience in industrial or manufacturing automationStrong PLC programming experience (structured text preferred)Experience supporting automation projects from design through commissioningHands-on troubleshooting experience with automated equipment and electrical systemsExperience working in a manufacturing or production environmentPreferred QualificationsExperience with Beckhoff / TwinCAT or similar PLC platformsIndustrial networking (EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, etc.)HMI or SCADA systems (Ignition, OPC-UA, MQTT)Machine or robot safety systems (safety PLCs, relays)Robotics or motion control experience