Korn Ferry has partnered with a leading aerospace manufacturer to identify an Automation Engineer for a direct-hire opportunity in Fullerton, CA . In this role, you will collaborate with Operations, Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, and IT teams to optimize equipment performance, improve manufacturing efficiency, minimize downtime, and support safe, reliable, and high-quality production operations.

Responsibilities:

Design, program, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, and related control technologies Support the installation, commissioning, startup, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing equipment and production lines Identify, develop, and implement automation solutions that enhance productivity, product quality, workplace safety, and operational efficiency Troubleshoot equipment and control system failures, perform root cause analysis, and implement sustainable corrective actions to minimize downtime Develop, modify, test, and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications to support manufacturing operations Collaborate closely with Maintenance, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations teams to resolve electrical, controls, and automation-related issues Lead automation and capital improvement projects from concept through implementation, including project planning, budgeting, scheduling, vendor management, and execution Evaluate emerging automation technologies and recommend equipment upgrades to improve performance, reliability, and scalability Create and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, equipment specifications, and standard operating procedures Analyze manufacturing and equipment performance metrics to drive improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), cycle time, throughput, and scrap reduction Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, quality, and regulatory standards Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs to maximize equipment reliability and operational uptime Train maintenance technicians, engineers, and production personnel on automation systems, equipment operation, and troubleshooting best practices Partner with cross-functional teams, including Quality, EHS, and IT, to support safe, reliable, and high-performing manufacturing operations

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical discipline 3 to 8+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or manufacturing automation environments Hands-on experience programming, configuring, and troubleshooting PLC-based control systems, including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms Proficiency with HMI, SCADA, robotics, servo motion control, machine vision systems, sensors, and industrial communication networks Strong knowledge of electrical controls, instrumentation, variable frequency drives (VFDs), machine safety systems, and control panel design Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings Demonstrated experience diagnosing complex equipment and process issues using structured troubleshooting and root cause analysis methodologies Experience supporting automated manufacturing equipment in a high-volume production environment Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, operations, maintenance, and leadership teams Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other engineering and automation software tools Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Due to ITAR requirements, applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR, which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a manufacturing environment Experience integrating robotic and automated systems Knowledge of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Industrial IoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies Project management experience

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person