Advanced Manufacturing Engineer Automation & Robotics Technology

Valmont Industries

Full-time - Mid Level

501-1,000 employees

Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Advanced Manufacturing Engineer - Automation & Robotics Technology at Valmont Industries is responsible for enhancing manufacturing processes across various materials including steel, aluminum, fiberglass composites, and concrete. This role focuses on developing and implementing new manufacturing technologies, improving existing processes, and establishing best practices to enhance quality, capability, and competitiveness. The engineer will lead projects aimed at reducing costs and transforming manufacturing operations through automation and robotics, while also supporting the development of technical talent within the organization.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to manufacturing engineering endeavors.
• Remain updated on cutting-edge technologies through trade shows, collaborations, and research.
• Design and develop manufacturing processes for new products, ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Implement and optimize automation and robotic systems to enhance production capabilities.
• Identify and lead initiatives to improve manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and increase productivity.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure products meet specifications.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing issues, collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Lead projects applying lean principles to improve process flow and stability.
• Manage new capacity investments to deploy optimal manufacturing processes.
• Develop automation solutions based on identified capacity gaps or technology roadmap drivers.
• Ensure documentation of processes, equipment, and projects is captured in digital systems for knowledge retention.
• Partner with manufacturing plants to evolve the site technology roadmap for technical productivity and profit improvement.
• Support technologies for Smart Factory deployment, including Industry 4.0 and collaborative robotics.
• Standardize equipment, vendors, and technologies across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field (preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering.
• Advanced knowledge of Lean Methodologies and experience with various lean tools.
• Project management experience in construction or machinery, leading teams and managing vendors.
• Proven experience in driving change on multiple projects.
• Experience in welding, thermal cutting, forming, machining, and assembly processes.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and MS Project.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and Inventor.
• Well-versed in robotics (Fanuc/Yaskawa/Kuka/Nachi).
• Proficient in designing/programming/troubleshooting with Allen-Bradley PLC Hardware & Software.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to motivate teams.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Mechanical, or related discipline.
• MBA or MS Technical degree preferred.
• Knowledge of Lean tools and principles.
• Knowledge of AISC, ISO, or AWS D1.1 requirements.

Benefits

• Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision)
• 401k retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short-term and long-term disability including maternity leave
• Work Life Support
• Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 per year
• Voluntary programs like tobacco cessation and health coaching