Automation Engineer

Element Electronics started in 2007 with a simple belief - every home should have access to TVs with the latest technology. After a few years, we decided we wanted to do more; in 2014, we opened our factory in Winnsboro, SC making Element the only major television company assembling TVs in the United States. Today, we continue to push ourselves and have expanded our product range of electronics and home appliances while continuing to provide customers with products with the latest technology, but at the most accessible prices.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, commissioning, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems. This role focuses on deploying new automation lines, integrating PLC-controlled equipment, and ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and efficiency of production processes.

The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, maintenance, and suppliers, to deliver automation projects that improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Automation Implementation & Technology Evaluation

• Lead the implementation and commissioning of new automated production lines.
• Support equipment installation, mechanical and electrical integration.
• Coordinate with vendors and integrators during equipment setup and FAT/SAT.
• Ensure new lines meet cycle time, throughput, and quality targets.
• Perform equipment testing and validation during installation.
• Lead Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT).
• Ensure compliance with safety and engineering standards.

PLC Programming and Control Systems

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs (Mitsubishi).
• Configure and maintain PLC-controlled equipment, including sensors, actuators, robots, and conveyors.
• Support integration of PLC with HMI, SCADA, and MES systems.
• Diagnose and resolve PLC communication issues.

Continuous Improvement Process Development (Kaizen)

• Leads and facilitates lean manufacturing initiatives utilizing Gemba assessments and Gemba walks to understand current state processes.
• Applies Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology to systematically identify and address process bottlenecks.
• Analyzes production data, workflow patterns, and operational metrics to identify improvement opportunities
• Develop and implement process improvements focused on waste elimination and efficiency gains
• Monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of implemented improvements
• Performs root cause analysis using techniques such as 5-Why analysis and fishbone diagrams

Data Analysis & Performance Metrics

• Collects, analyzes, and interprets manufacturing data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities
• Uses statistical methods and data visualization tools to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders
• Establishes baseline metrics and tracks progress against improvement targets and manufacturing goals
• Creates and maintains dashboards and reports to monitor lean metrics and automation performance
• Supports the development of standard work and visual management systems across the facility

Troubleshooting and Technical Support

• Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams.
• Troubleshoot automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and motion control.
• Identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Other Duties as assigned or as necessary