CMD · 8 hours ago
Automation Engineer Lead
Appleton, WI
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
7+ years expCMD Corporation is dedicated to building lifelong partnerships and providing high-performing equipment and solutions. The Automation Engineer Lead is responsible for overseeing customer automation projects, from development to field installation, and collaborating with a team to create innovative automation solutions.
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Responsibilities
Lead creation of automation concepts for new equipment and production solutions
Translate requirements into practical machine concepts, layouts, and prototypes
Evaluate design tradeoffs (cost, reliability, throughput, maintainability, risk) and recommend clear paths forward
Support integration of motion, robotics, handling systems, and safety elements into cohesive designs
Map process flows and production steps to identify opportunities for automation
Develop 2D and 3D layouts to quickly visualize ideas and support early scoping
Lead feasibility studies and proof-of-concept efforts to validate approaches before full design
Establish repeatable approaches, templates, and standards that accelerate future projects
Work closely with electrical and controls engineers to ensure complete system design (without owning PLC/HMI development)
Partner with operations, maintenance, and manufacturing engineering to ensure equipment is practical, serviceable, and safe
Support build, installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting throughout the project lifecycle
Coach engineers and designers on sound engineering practices, prototype testing, and iterative development
Promote structured problem-solving and documentation
Help build an environment focused on learning, quality, and speed of execution
Identify simplification and standardization opportunities across projects
Capture lessons learned and drive reliability improvements
Maintain accurate documentation, design records, and system standards
Qualification
Required
Experience developing automation equipment or integrated production systems
Ability to design and review mechanical assemblies, motion systems, and handling solutions
Comfortable working with robotics, pneumatics, guarding, and safety requirements
Ability to interpret production requirements into layouts, flows, and concepts
Understanding of controls/automation interactions sufficient to collaborate effectively
Strong communication skills, able to clearly present ideas to technical and non-technical stakeholders
Organized, able to manage multiple initiatives and prioritize effectively
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, or related discipline) or equivalent practical experience
7+ years' experience working with automation equipment or production systems
Background developing custom equipment, special machines, or complex system integrations
Experience guiding designs from concept through build and installation
Prior mentoring, technical leadership, or project lead experience
Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while working at a desk or computer
Capacity to use standard office equipment such as computer, telephone, and videoconferencing
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work
Ability to navigate manufacturing floor environment, which may include walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods
Ability to tolerate exposure to moderate levels of noise, vibration, and varying temperatures in a manufacturing environment
Capacity to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, ear protection, and hard hat as needed
Ability to follow health and safety guidelines and protocols including emergency procedures
Regular, predictable attendance is required
Must be authorized to work in the United States and adhere to CMD's confidentiality agreement(s)
Company
CMD
Take command of every opportunity with a partner that gets results.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Deonte Atkins
Founder at CMD
Paula Ordway
Chief People Officer
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