Equipment Engineer

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Equipment Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechatronics, automation, or a related engineering discipline, with a focus on supporting and enhancing automotive stamping equipment. This role serves as a critical bridge between Maintenance and Process Engineering, playing a pivotal role in driving equipment optimization, reliability, and continuous improvement through the implementation of lean strategies and technical expertise. The Equipment Engineer will be responsible for ensuring peak operational performance, minimizing downtime, and fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency within our manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

The Equipment Engineer will be tasked with a diverse range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Equipment Optimization and Reliability: Lead initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and efficiency of automotive stamping equipment, including presses, transfer systems, and feeders. Utilize lean manufacturing principles such as Kaizen, SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Die), and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) to drive continuous improvement.
• Technical Troubleshooting and Support: Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues related to electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and control systems. Provide hands-on support to Maintenance and Process Engineering teams to ensure swift resolution of equipment-related challenges.
• Automation and Control Systems: Develop, implement, and maintain advanced automation solutions using Siemens PLCs (Step7, TIA Portal) and WinCC HMI/SCADA systems. Ensure seamless integration and operation of these systems to support manufacturing processes.
• Robotics Integration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to operate, program, and troubleshoot KUKA robots, ensuring they function optimally within the stamping process. Contribute to the development of robotic applications to enhance productivity and precision.
• Schematic Interpretation and Design: Analyze and interpret electrical, mechanical, and control schematics to identify potential improvements, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions. Assist in the design and modification of control systems to meet evolving production requirements.
• Project Leadership: Lead and participate in equipment improvement and optimization projects, from initial concept through to implementation. Evaluate project feasibility, manage timelines, and ensure alignment with organizational goals and budget constraints.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Maintenance, Process Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to identify opportunities for enhancement, share technical knowledge, and implement best practices across the organization.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of equipment performance, maintenance activities, and improvement initiatives. Generate detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings, recommendations, and progress to stakeholders at all levels.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of three years of hands-on experience in the automotive industry, with a focus on stamping processes and equipment.
• Proven expertise in Siemens PLC programming (Step7, TIA Portal) and WinCC HMI/SCADA systems, with the ability to develop, modify, and troubleshoot control logic.
• Strong technical foundation in electronics, electrical systems, and industrial control, including motors, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), soft starters, and related components.
• In-depth knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems, with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues in these areas.
• Experience working with automotive stamping equipment, such as presses, transfer systems, and feeders, and the ability to interpret complex schematics for these systems.
• Familiarity with KUKA robots, including operation, programming, or troubleshooting, is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in lean manufacturing tools and methodologies, such as Kaizen, SMED, and TPM, with a track record of applying these principles to drive operational excellence.
• Demonstrated leadership in equipment improvement or optimization projects, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives and deliver measurable results.