Automation Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to design, build, and deploy automation systems across our Smith Blade production line. You will be responsible for increasing throughput, improving consistency, and reducing manual labor across machining, finishing, assembly, inspection, and packaging. 

This role is highly hands-on and requires strong cross-functional collaboration with manufacturing, process engineering, and production teams.

Core Responsibilities

Automation & Process Engineering

• Design and deploy semi-automated and fully automated work cells
• Reduce manual touchpoints and improve throughput

Machine Vision & Quality Control

• Develop and deploy machine vision systems for:
• • Dimensional verification
  • Surface defect detection
  • Assembly validation
• Improve first pass yield and reduce reliance on manual inspection

Manufacturing System Integration 

• Develop and maintain integrations between our custom ERP system and connected equipment, such as CNC machines, machine vision systems, and assembly stations.
• • Build real-time dashboards to: track machine status (idle, running, blocked)
  • Identify which machines require loading/unloading
  • Monitor cycle times and utilization
• Drive toward a fully connected, data-visible shop floor

Jigs, Fixtures & Tooling

• Design and iterate on:
• • Assembly fixtures
  • Inspection jigs
  • Workholding solutions
• Ensure fixtures are robust, repeatable, and optimized for speed
• Collaborate closely with machinists and assembly teams

Equipment Installation & Bring-Up

• Lead installation, validation, and commissioning of new equipment such as:
• • Laser engravers 
  • Laser welders 
  • Cleaning systems
  • Tumblers and finishing equipment
• Troubleshoot and modify equipment for production readiness

Qualifications 

• Degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical, Electrical, Software, or Automation Engineering
• 3+ years in a manufacturing or production environment
• Experience with Machine Vision systems 
• Strong experience with Python, C++, or similar languages 
• Strong hands-on capability (able to build, wire, test, debug)

Why Join Us?

• Gourmet meal every work day (we have a very skilled chef on staff) 
• Snacks and coffee to keep you fueled
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Gym membership benefit
• Safety shoe allowance

You must be legally allowed to work in Canada and be local or willing to relocate. This role is based in Cambridge, Ontario and telecommuting is not an option.

Salary Range: $70,000 - $85,000 plus benefits