Automation Engineer at Emotiv in Kansas City, KS

Why Emotiv

At Emotiv, we don’t just move materials. We accelerate possibility. We are reimagining mobility with advanced warehousing and sequencing solutions trusted by leading automotive OEMs. We are a team of doers, thinkers, and builders who believe operational excellence is achieved through empowered people and a constant drive to improve.

If you’re looking for a company where you can be seen, grow, and help shape the future of supply chain innovation, we’d love to meet you.

The Role

We are seeking a driven and innovative Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and controls systems within our manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for developing and maintaining automation solutions, robotics, PLC controls, and Industry 4.0 technologies that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and equipment performance.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical professional with expertise in automation, controls engineering, and manufacturing systems. They are passionate about leveraging technology, data, and continuous improvement to optimize processes, reduce downtime, and support operational excellence. This individual will collaborate closely with Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and IT teams to deliver reliable and scalable automation solutions that drive manufacturing performance and support business growth.

This position is based on-site at our Kansas City, KS facility and reports to the Automation Manager as part of the plant operations team.

What You’ll Do

· Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, and automated manufacturing equipment to support plant operations.

· Implement and optimize automation solutions that improve safety, quality, productivity, and equipment reliability.

· Support Industry 4.0 initiatives through the integration of IIoT technologies, data collection systems, analytics, and connected manufacturing platforms.

· Maintain and enhance SCADA systems, industrial networks, controls architecture, and production system interfaces.

· Develop and maintain automation standards, controls documentation, electrical schematics, and programming best practices.

· Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Operations, and IT teams to identify and execute process improvement opportunities.

· Support equipment installations, upgrades, commissioning activities, and startup events for new and existing production lines.

· Work with equipment suppliers, system integrators, and contractors to implement automation and controls projects.

· Support new product launches by developing automation solutions, validating equipment performance, and ensuring production readiness.

· Analyze manufacturing and equipment performance data to identify root causes, improve uptime, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

· Provide technical troubleshooting and controls support for production equipment, maintenance teams, and plant personnel.

· Ensure all automation systems comply with safety standards, machine safeguarding requirements, cybersecurity protocols, and regulatory requirements.

· Participate in capital projects by supporting equipment specifications, controls integration, testing, and project execution.

· Stay current on emerging automation technologies and recommend innovative solutions to enhance manufacturing performance.

Who You Are

· Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.

· 3+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing environments.

· Experience with PLC programming, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, and automated manufacturing equipment.

· Knowledge of Rockwell/Allen-Bradley platforms, SCADA systems, and industrial communication networks.

· Skilled in controls troubleshooting, system integration, commissioning, and process optimization.

· Experience supporting automation projects, equipment installations, and production launches.

· Understanding of industrial safety standards, machine safeguarding, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements.

· Strong analytical, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

· Passion for leveraging automation and technology to improve manufacturing performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

· Work performed in office and manufacturing environments with exposure to automation systems and electrical equipment.

· Travel up to 15% is required.

· Must follow all safety protocols including LOTO and PPE requirements.

· Must have valid driver’s license

Life at Emotiv

We believe great work happens when people feel valued, supported, and connected. At Emotiv, you will find a culture built on collaboration, learning, and celebrating wins of all sizes. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to grow your career alongside industry leaders who are shaping the future of sustainable mobility.

Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees. Explore everything we have to offer at Emotiv Careers!