Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer The Reserves Network Inc
• Branford, CT, US

Senior Automation Engineer | $150,000 – $180,000 | Full Time, Direct Hire – Branford, CT

• Competitive base salary range of $150,000–$180,000
• Direct hire opportunity with a well‑funded, growth‑stage technology organization
• High‑impact senior role focused on production‑deployed automation systems
• Strong ownership over mechanical design and system integration
• Work in a small, highly technical engineering environment with direct influence on outcomes
• On‑site position in Branford, CT; relocation may be considered for the right candidate

A technology‑driven organization is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to support the design, development, and production transfer of complex automated systems. This role is hands‑on and execution‑focused, supporting automation platforms that must meet strict reliability, repeatability, and quality standards in real‑world operating environments. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in mechanical automation, understands how to collaborate across electrical and software disciplines, and is comfortable owning systems from concept through validation and deployment.

• Lead mechanical and system‑level design of automated equipment and robotics‑based systems
• Design and integrate motion systems, fixturing, end‑effectors, and material transfer mechanisms
• Support the transition of automation systems from prototype to production‑ready deployment
• Develop documentation including BOMs, test procedures, and validation plans
• Collaborate with electrical and software engineers to define system architecture and interfaces
• Improve system robustness, uptime, and repeatability through structured engineering practices
• Ensure designs align with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
• Participate in troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline
• 5+ years of experience delivering automation or robotics systems used in production environments
• Strong mechanical engineering background with hands‑on experience in:
  • Automation system design
  • Robotics and motion control
  • Custom fixturing and end‑effector design
• Proficiency with CAD tools (Solid Works or equivalent)
• Working knowledge of sensors, machine vision, pneumatics, and industrial automation concepts
• Ability to define software and controls requirements, even if not responsible for full software development
• Experience in regulated or quality‑driven industries (medical device, aerospace, food, pharma, complex manufacturing preferred)
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate in small, cross‑functional teams

• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Paid time off and holidays
• Relocation assistance may be available

You will join a technically driven engineering team focused on building robust, production‑ready automation systems
. The environment values structured problem‑solving, cross‑disciplinary collaboration, and engineers who take ownership from design through deployment—without reliance on trial‑and‑error development.

The Reserves Network is a veteran‑founded, family‑owned talent solutions firm that partners with engineering professionals and leading organizations nationwide. We are committed to delivering thoughtful, high‑quality career matches and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.