Automation Engineer (m/f/d) at Sonova in Staefa, Switzerland

As an Automation Engineer, you will develop and implement advanced manufacturing equipment and automation solutions used across Sonova’s global Operations, R&D and Regional Centers.

You will take automation projects from initial concept and feasibility assessment through equipment development, supplier coordination and deployment into production. Working closely with R&D, industrialization teams, manufacturing sites and external equipment suppliers, you will evaluate technical solutions and ensure that manufacturing equipment is reliable, scalable, cost-effective and ready for volume production.

The role combines industrial automation, manufacturing engineering and project responsibility. Your main focus will be the development of new manufacturing equipment, complemented by adapting existing systems for new products as well as providing technical support, optimization and troubleshooting for existing solutions.

More about the role:

• Lead automation and manufacturing equipment projects from concept and feasibility assessment through development, verification and deployment into production.
• Develop new automation solutions and adapt existing manufacturing equipment to support new products and manufacturing processes.
• Coordinate equipment projects, including timelines, costs, risks, technical requirements, suppliers and relevant internal stakeholders.
• Evaluate and integrate technologies such as robotics, machine vision and data-driven solutions to improve process control, reliability and traceability.
• Define requirements and collaborate with external automation partners and equipment suppliers to deliver technically sound, compliant and cost-effective solutions.
• Analyze existing manufacturing equipment and processes to identify opportunities for automation, optimization and improved scalability.
• Support equipment implementation, troubleshooting and continuous improvement in collaboration with global manufacturing teams.
• Where needed, contribute to mechanical concepts, 3D models, fixtures and proof-of-concept solutions during feasibility assessments.

More about you:

Must-haves:

• Degree in Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline (MSc, BSc, FH, HF or equivalent).
• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience in industrial automation and manufacturing equipment, ideally within medtech, life sciences, micromechanics, microelectronics, precision manufacturing, electronic consumer products or a comparable manufacturing environment.
• Good mechanical understanding and practical exposure to mechanical design and/or 3D modelling in an equipment or manufacturing environment.
• Experience taking responsibility for equipment or automation projects, or significant project workstreams, from technical evaluation toward implementation.
• Strong analytical and interdisciplinary thinking, with the ability to structure complex technical challenges and develop practical, production-ready solutions.
• Independent and structured working style, combined with strong communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional and international environment.
• Fluent English and at least B2-level German.

Nice-to-haves:

• Experience leading equipment development projects and coordinating cross-functional teams or external automation suppliers.
• Experience with 3D CAD, ideally PTC Creo, including fixtures, prototypes or proof-of-concept solutions.
• Knowledge of PLC systems and IEC 61131-3 programming, robotics, machine vision and/or manufacturing data solutions.
• Advanced experience with automation solutions for fine-mechanical or other high-precision manufacturing processes.
• Project management training or certification.

More about what we offer:

As one of the world’s leading hearing care providers headquartered in Switzerland, we’re committed to building an inclusive culture. We want to create an environment where you can balance a successful career with your commitments and interests outside of work, through our flexible hybrid working model. We offer a wide range of training opportunities for both your professional and personal development, and there are exceptional growth opportunities with individual development plans.

Application process:

Magdalena Suszek, Talent Acquisition Partner, is looking forward to receiving your application via our online job application platform, including your CV and cover letter. For this vacancy, only direct applications will be considered.