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Automation Engineer

Hickory, North Carolina, United States

US Conec, Ltd.

Engineering Innovation. Precision Plastics. Powering AI.

US Conec, Ltd. is a trusted, global company that prides itself on engineering excellence—creating innovative connectivity solutions that support today’s most important technologies. We foster a friendly, inclusive culture that values teamwork, creativity, and mutual respect. At US Conec, you’ll find real opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact in a company that genuinely cares about its people and its customers. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and a supportive environment, this is a place where you can build your future—whether your interests lie in manufacturing, engineering, operations, or beyond.

 

Overview

The Automation Engineer plays a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing automated manufacturing systems that improve efficiency and reduce production costs across multiple business units. This role supports both new and existing products while providing hands-on engineering guidance to technicians and cross-functional teams. The position is highly collaborative, working closely with operations, manufacturing, and product engineering groups.

Responsibilities

• Design, specify, and implement automated manufacturing systems to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives for new and existing products, including automation and process optimization
• Develop and maintain clear documentation such as work instructions, data sheets, and process standards for manual and automated operations
• Inspect products and processes to verify dimensional accuracy and performance following automation steps
• Troubleshoot, repair, or coordinate repairs for automation and production equipment
• Support cross-functional automation efforts across multiple business units
• Provide daily and long-term engineering support to manufacturing teams
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and incorporate new capabilities where beneficial
• Train technicians and hourly associates on processes, equipment operation, and best practices

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline; Mechanical or Electrical Engineering preferred
• 3–5 years of experience in a medium-volume manufacturing environment (e.g., injection molding, die casting, machining, assembly)
• Hands-on experience maintaining and troubleshooting sophisticated automated equipment
• Working knowledge of machining, tooling, jigs, fixtures, and assembly methods
• Strong analytical and creative problem‑solving abilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency with 2D and 3D CAD for design and documentation
• Experience with industrial programming platforms (PLCs, HMIs, IoT controllers)
• Experience with data acquisition and statistical analysis tools
• Advanced PC skills, including Microsoft Office

Nice to Haves

• Experience in injection molding automation environments
• Familiarity with high-precision plastics manufacturing
• Exposure to Industry 4.0 or smart manufacturing initiatives
• Knowledge of advanced inspection or metrology systems
• Previous experience leading cross-functional automation projects

US Conec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Join US Conec today and be part of a team that values each other, promotes innovation and growth, and strives to exceed customer expectations in everything we do. 

 US Conec is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics

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