Automation Design Engineer II

Automation Design Engineer ll

Reports to:  Supervisor/Manager of Automation Engineering

Department: Automation Engineering

The Automation Design Engineer II is responsible for the design, development, sustainment, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing and inspection equipment. This position independently develops automation solutions, equipment upgrades, tooling, and technical documentation while providing hands-on support to manufacturing operations. The role collaborates with cross-functional teams, contributes to project planning and vendor coordination, and mentors less experienced engineers and technicians to support the successful execution of automation projects. Candidates must have excellent communication skills, good problem-solving capabilities and the ability to work collaboratively across the organization. 

About Bal Seal: Bal Seal Engineering delivers advanced sealing, connecting, and contact solutions that serve medical, aerospace, energy, and industrial markets. Our proprietary spring-energized seals and electrical contacts help customers achieve precision, efficiency, and reliability. Employees thrive in a culture that values craftsmanship, technical mastery, and close partnership with customers solving complex challenges.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Contribute to project planning, scope development, and budget estimates
• Contribute to vendor discussions to resolve issues, specify hardware/software, and obtain quotes
• Participate in cross departmental meetings to align objectives and priorities
• Diagnose and troubleshooting of various machines and automated equipment to support production operations
• Design new tools to expand existing machine capabilities, reduce machine downtime, or improve sustainability
• Develop automated solutions for manual processes or equipment
• Develop and maintain process documentation (i.e. Operating Procedures, Operator Manuals, SOP's…)
• Develop and maintain equipment documentation (i.e. CAD models, drawings, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system schematics)
• Develop and carryout test plans to verify machine functionality and improvements
• Develop and carryout test plans to qualify new equipment, and machine upgrades
• Develops, mentors, and supports less experienced Engineers and Technicians
• Up to 5% travel required to BSE facilities and/or trade shows
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Education: 

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering/Engineering Technology Degree and/or minimum 7 years demonstrated experience in a similar environment 

Experience: 

• Experience with laser cutting and welding processes and techniques
• Experience implementing Continuous Improvement, Lean initiatives, developing and implementing Process Capability studies
• Experience with small precision machined components and associated manufacturing processes and tolerances

• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must be able to promote and work in a highly collaborative environment
• Must be hands on and interface with plant personnel and operators
• Strong computer skills and utilization of Microsoft Office tools
• Ability to effectively and safely utilize various hand and power tools
• Proficient with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks and/or Inventor preferred)
• Independently able to identify and solve problems without direction or assistance
• Proficient ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems as well as the ability to conduct root cause analysis
• Proficient understanding of pneumatic and electrical actuators and systems
• Proficient understanding of fabrication methods and associated tolerances
• Proficient understanding and application of manufacturing methods and processes
• Proficient understanding of machine element design (i.e. fasteners, bearings, gear and belt drive etc.)
• Proficient understanding and application of GD&T best practices, ASME Y14.5-2018
• Proficient understanding and application of Design for Manufacturability and Assembly (DFMA) best practices
• Advanced ability with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks and/or Inventor preferred)
• Proficient in Engineering 3D modeling and drawing best practices

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to walk throughout the facility
• Frequent lifting and/or moving up to 10 pounds and occasionally lifting and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Occasionally will need to bend, stoop and squat

• The work environment conditions are typical of a manufacturing environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the basic functions. The noise level in the work environment ranges from quiet to moderate, however, hearing protection may be required if employee enters high noise areas as a part of their normal job duties.

Benefits:

At Bal Seal Engineering (BSE) we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

BSE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.