Senior Automation Engineer

Requirements

• 7+ years in robotics and automation engineering, with at least 4 years in hands-on prototyping and automation system integration.
• Proven track record of delivering end-to-end projects in industrial automation or laboratory environments.
• Technical Skills:
• Design & CAD: Proficient in mechanical design using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or CATIA. Experienced with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as ANSYS for stress and structural analysis.
• Robotics Hardware: Hands-on experience with servo motors, grippers, pneumatic actuators, and integration of pick-and-place robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and collaborative robots (e.g., Universal Robots, KUKA).
• Vision & Sensing: Skilled in machine vision systems such asOpenCV, HALCON, Keyence, and Cognex VisionPro. Experienced in sensor fusion involving LiDAR, IMUs, and force/torque sensors.
• Programming & Control: Expertise in Python, MATLAB, National Instruments LabVIEW, ROS (Robot Operating System), and C/C++/C#. Skilled in PLC programming using Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• AI-Augmented Development: Proficient in leveraging AI-powered tools like GitHub Copilot to accelerate development, automate engineering tasks, and enhance team productivity.
• Version Control & DevOps: Experienced in applying version control best practices using Git-based systems (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket), such as branching strategies, commit hygiene, CI/CD integration, and team training for repository management and code integrity.
• Salary for the role is $114,100 - $163,000 per year.

Benefits

Additional Information

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta's Automation & Engineering Team is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Malta, IL. This role will lead the design, development, prototyping, and deployment of end-to-end automation systems that drive efficiency, precision, and scalability within Seeds R&D. This hands-on role focuses on innovating and integrating engineering solutions from concept to production. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate complex requirements into robust, production-ready systems. Success in this role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, practical prototyping skills, and a passion for innovation in agricultural automation. Accountabilities: System Design & Development: Lead the architectural design and integration of automated systems from concept to production, incorporating PLCs, robotics, and mechanical/electrical components. Use CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to produce detailed 3D models, simulations, and assembly drawings. Vision-Guided Automation: Develop and optimize high-speed, high-accuracy pick-and-place systems using machine vision and robotic arms to handle multiple payloads and operating environments. Prototyping & Implementation: Build and iterate physical prototypes using rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining). Perform hands-on assembly, testing, and debugging of components, ensuring seamless integration of sensors, actuators, and end-effectors. Coordinate with external vendors for parts fabrication as needed. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with breeders, data scientists, biologists, engineers, and operations teams to solve complex robotics and automation challenges. Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Stay current with emerging technologies (e.g., collaborative robots, automation platforms) to deliver cutting-edge solutions. Conduct cost-benefit analyses and tradeoff evaluations to optimize design efficiency and component selection. Project Delivery & Governance: Manage project timelines and deliverables using Agile methodologies and engineering best practices. Documentation & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive technical reports, SOPs, and presentations to communicate findings and support regulatory submissions or patent filings. PLEASE NOTE: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring current or future sponsorship (which also includes OPT/CPT and H-1B visas). Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related experience.

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