ROLE DESCRIPTION

The Manufacturing Engineer - Automation is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and sustaining automated and semi-automated manufacturing solutions to improve production efficiency, quality, safety, and cost. This role focuses on the industrialization of automation technologies across the manufacturing lifecycle, from concept and feasibility through deployment, validation, and continuous improvement. The engineer works closely with production, design, quality, IT, and suppliers to ensure robust, scalable, and maintainable automation systems.

As Engineer, Satellite Manufacturing - Automation, you will be responsible to :

• Design, develop, and implement automated and semi-automated manufacturing systems (robotics, PLC-based systems, vision systems, test automation, material handling)
• Identify automation opportunities to improve productivity, quality, ergonomics, safety, and cost
• Lead or support automation feasibility studies, business cases, and ROI analyses
• Specify, select, and integrate automation equipment, controls, and software
• Develop and maintain automation-related documentation including system architectures, functional specifications, and operating procedures
• Support commissioning, validation, and ramp-up of automated production systems
• Troubleshoot automation and control system issues to minimize downtime and production risk
• Collaborate with production, process, quality, and IT teams to ensure seamless system integration
• Manage and coordinate external suppliers and system integrators
• Ensure automation solutions comply with safety regulations, machine directives, and quality standards
• Support change management for automation upgrades and continuous improvement initiatives
• Drive standardization and digitalization of automation platforms and controls

COMPETENCIES, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Strong understanding of industrial automation, controls engineering, and manufacturing systems
• Knowledge of robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, vision systems, and industrial networks
• Experience with system integration, commissioning, and validation
• Ability to analyze manufacturing processes and translate requirements into automation solutions
• Structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills
• Continuous improvement mindset with focus on reliability and maintainability
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
• 2-4 years in manufacturing automation or controls engineering
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and industrial control systems
• Experience with robotics programming and integration (e.g., ABB, KUKA, FANUC, UR, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with safety standards, machine directives, and risk assessments
• Experience with MES, data acquisition, and industrial digitalization is a plus
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies and cleanroom practices
• Fluency in English; additional languages are a plus.

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Eligibility for ESA/EU/NATO/National SECRET personnel security clearances is essential. Candidates must be prepared to undergo a security clearance procedure, as this position may require holding such clearance
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, production-driven environment
• Strong communication skills to collaborate across engineering, production, quality, IT, and suppliers
• Willingness to support commissioning and ramp-up activities on the shop floor
• Willingness to work at least 60% onsite from office

The job responsibilities outlined in this document are not exhaustive and may evolve over time and be reviewed according to business needs.

SES and its Affiliated Companies are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

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