Automation Engineer

As a member of the Sunstar Group, Sunstar Americas, Inc., a global organization dedicated to improving overall health through oral health worldwide, holds a prominent position in the oral care industry. Formerly known as the John O. Butler Company, we are renowned for our exceptional production and distribution, and high-quality oral care products. With our headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois, and branches in Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina, as well as distribution partners in Central and South America, we have established ourselves as an industry leader.At Sunstar Americas, Inc., we firmly believe that our people are the foundation of our success. We foster a collaborative, innovative, and agile culture that ensures we deliver high-quality, innovative products to consumers and oral care professionals. Our team-oriented approach encourages creative thinking and nurtures a positive work environment and productive relationships. With dedication, hard work, and a shared vision, we can continue to make SAI a leader in our industry.Join us and become part of our global team, where together, we can achieve success and contribute to a better future.Position Summary:Provide technical support and lead the automation for medical device products, processing methods and technologies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing automated systems to enhance manufacturing processes and improve operational efficiency. This role requires a strong understanding of automation technology, vision system programming, and hardware operations within a manufacturing environment. The time spent on the floor (GEMBA) vs office desk is projected to be approximately 50% floor / 50% office and will vary widely based on business needs. Essential Job Functions:Design and develop new automation systems and improve existing ones to optimize manufacturing processes. Program, simulate, and test automated machinery and processes used in manufacturing. Execute validation scripts to assist with equipment commissioning. Integrate automation systems with existing manufacturing hardware and equipment. Write and update system documentation and provide user training for manufacturing staff. Ensure all automation activities comply with manufacturing regulatory standards. Identify opportunities for automation within manufacturing software processes. Develop specifications and safety protocols for automation systems in the manufacturing setting. Perform routine maintenance and system checks to ensure functionality and minimize downtime. Collaborate with stakeholders and regulatory compliance to author required validation protocol documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ) that is related to automation projects. Research, develop and lead the implementation of advanced technologies and automation across the entire value stream. Closely interface with production support and maintenance departments on preventative maintenance programs. Generate and assist in the development of engineering plans and the designs required for cost reduction, process, and equipment improvements (User Requirement Specification (URS) and Functional Requirement Specification (FRS). Other related duties as assigned. Education / CertificationsBS in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Electronic, Manufacturing, Industrial and/or Plastics, Systems, Packaging) is preferred Certification in a related discipline is a plus Certification in a robotics programming course is a plus Experience in injection molding is a plus Knowledge/Experience 5+ years of progressive automation manufacturing experience inclusive of automation, packaging, and maintenance. Willingness and proven track record of learning new automation/technologies to support manufacturing. Application of project management principles (scope and budget development, stakeholder communication plans, stage gate reviews and task tracking against timeline) Knowledge of Process Failure Mode Effects Analysis (PFMEA), root causes assessments (6 M's Fishbone) and designed engineering studies (DOE). Good Practice Guidelines (GxP) and medical device manufacturing experience is highly preferred. Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Value Stream Mapping and Kaizen Events is highly preferred. SkillsWorking knowledge of PLCs, Vision Systems, Robotics, Servo motors and drives, VFD motor controllers, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Microsoft Project and Microsoft Office. AbilitiesAbility to lead projects and to clearly communicate status, technical data, subsequent actions, and timelines to team members and senior management.Team-based collaborative abilities to interface cross-functionally production, planning, quality and engineering opportunities for improvement.What Makes Sunstar Special is:A business focused on health and wellness of people around the worldHigh Quality ProductsBeautiful state-of-the-art facilityDiversity and Inclusion Corporate Social Responsibility Program and partnership with charitable organizationStrong value placed on company culture Excellent, comprehensive insurance coverage that includes Medical, Vision, and Dental benefits. Opportunities for career growth and advancement Employee discount on Sunstar products401K retirement plan with employer match (Pretax and Roth options) 401K profit sharing contribution based on company performance.Paid holidays and generous paid time off. Pet, Legal and Identity Theft Insurance PlansCompetitive bonusOn-site caféOn Site Fitness Center Corporate Perks Discount Program (Auto, Retail, Electronics, Entertainment, Computers, Personal Vacations, Cell Phones, Movie Tickets, Eating Out and Much More)Holiday LunchesBeautifully maintained walking trailsHybrid Schedule (certain departments)Numerous employee appreciation events throughout the year.Recognition and Rewards ProgramsAnniversary, Birthday and New Hire Announcements If you'd enjoy a career helping others attain overall health through oral health, consider joining the Sunstar Americas, Inc. team.The employer is subject to certain governmental record keeping and reporting requirements for the administration of civil rights laws and regulations. In order to comply with these laws, the employer invites employees to voluntarily self-identify their gender, and race or ethnicity. Completion of this data is voluntary and will not affect your opportunity for employment or terms or conditions of employment. Information collected will be used for EEO-1 reporting purposes only and will be kept separate from all other personnel records, only accessed by Authorized Users. Information collected will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government. When reported, data will not identify any specific individual. The pay range for this position of Automation Engineer is $79,902-119,853. However, base pay offered may vary depending on skills, experience, job-related knowledge and location. This position is also eligible for an annual bonus as part of total compensation.

Created: 2025-03-02