Senior Automation Engineer
Locations: Arlington Heights, IL
Travel: 25%
Job Type: Direct Hire
Salary:$135,000-$165,000
Position Overview
Sterling Engineering is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to join a growing team focused on designing and implementing advanced automation solutions within a medical device manufacturing environment.
In this lead-level role, you will be responsible for the design, development, and deployment of custom automation equipment and tooling, supporting high-speed, high-precision production processes. You’ll work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and leadership teams while contributing at both a hands-on and strategic level.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and implementation of custom automation equipment for manufacturing operations
- Develop project specifications based on product design, customer requirements, and performance standards
- Ensure alignment with all applicable regulatory and quality requirements
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, layout, and detail components for new and existing equipment
- Troubleshoot and debug interactions between mechanical, electrical, and software systems
- Design mechanical fixtures, adapters, and custom tooling, including robot end-of-arm tooling (EOAT)
- Perform testing, evaluation, and iteration of equipment to ensure reliability and performance
- Create and maintain technical documentation, including BOMs, installation drawings, and reports
- Support equipment deployment at customer sites and gather system requirements
- Participate in project reviews, status meetings, and acceptance testing
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing based on timelines and business needs
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
- 8+ years of experience in automation engineering or similar roles, preferably within:
- Medical device
- Automation machinery / equipment manufacturing
- Systems integration
- Highly regulated industries (pharma, aerospace, automotive, food & beverage)
- Experience in a lead or senior-level engineering role
- Proficiency with at least one CAD platform: SolidWorks, Creo, or AutoCAD
- Experience designing custom automation equipment and tooling
- Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, materials, and structural design
- Proven ability to solve complex technical problems and work in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in medical device or disposable product manufacturing
- Background in fluid filling or drug handling automation
- Experience with high-speed, high-precision automation systems
- Familiarity with extruded aluminum structural design
- Experience designing and producing 3D-printed components
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.