Automation Integration Engineer I
The Automation Integration Engineer I at Confidential Client is an entry-level escalation engineer responsible for resolving recurring issues in laboratory automation platforms. This role involves troubleshooting, mechanical repair, root cause analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to enhance system reliability and service workflows within regulated environments. The position requires strong technical aptitude, customer-focused support, and adherence to quality and regulatory standards, with a scheduled shift from Saturday to Tuesday evenings.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Healthcare & Laboratory Automation (Confidential Client).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Automation Integration Engineer I provides escalation-level technical support for laboratory automation platforms. You will respond to escalated service cases from field engineers, follow defined troubleshooting protocols, perform basic mechanical/electrical diagnostics, document root causes, and help restore system uptime. This role collaborates with cross-functional teams to improve service workflows and develops proficiency with PLCs, vision systems, and robotics in regulated lab environments.
- Support escalated technical cases from Laboratory Service Engineers
- Execute well-defined troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures
- Perform mechanical repairs and basic diagnostics to restore uptime
- Analyze logs and data to determine root cause and identify trends
- Create and interpret data queries to support investigations
- Document findings, resolutions, and improvement opportunities
- Serve as liaison for assigned equipment and coordinate vendor escalations
- Participate in corrective action reviews and share learnings with service teams
- Contribute to transfer, testing, and technical validation of new hardware/products
- Identify opportunities to simplify and automate service processes
- Represent service in cross-functional initiatives (development, quality, IT)
- Maintain audit readiness and compliance with lab regulations (e.g., CAP/CLIA)
- Provide excellent, customer-focused technical support
Key Responsibilities (Additional)
- Develop and update processes for installations, qualifications, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Triage incoming requests for stand-alone and custom laboratory automation systems
- Escalate unfamiliar or complex issues appropriately and timely
- Prioritize and plan work independently to meet service timelines
- Support and comply with the Quality Management System (QMS) and safety requirements (e.g., OSHA)
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and customers
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a related field OR Associate’s + 2 years relevant experience OR High School/GED + 4 years relevant experience
- ~3 years in an engineering or technical support role (or equivalent experience)
- At least 1 year of industrial automation maintenance experience
- Demonstrated understanding of clinical laboratory regulations
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Ability to perform essential duties with or without accommodation
- Authorized to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
- 2+ years in engineering, technical support, or automation roles
- Experience with custom automation controls and ladder logic (Rockwell Studio 5000 / Allen-Bradley PLCs)
- Experience with vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) and robot troubleshooting (Fanuc, Epson)
- Familiarity with HMI programming (FactoryTalk View Studio) and industrial network integration
- Experience reading electrical diagrams and using SolidWorks/CAD for troubleshooting
- Service experience in automated manufacturing or laboratory automation systems
- Knowledge of LIMS, SCADA/MES, and database/file management systems
- Experience working in CAP/CLIA or other regulated environments
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Scheduled shift: Saturday — Tuesday, 3:00 pm – 2:00 am
- Ability to sit and stand ~50% of the workday
- Ability to travel up to 30% (may include overnight/weekend travel)
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds (~5% of the time)
- Use of fine and gross motor skills for troubleshooting and maintenance
- Frequent work on mobile devices, tablets, or computers (~90% of the day)
- Must comply with personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements
- Ability and means to travel between local Madison/Fitchburg area locations
- Occasional evening or weekend work may be required
Compensation
- Base pay range: $50,700 – $101,300 per year (range provided by Confidential Client; actual pay may vary by location and candidate experience)
Why Apply
This is an entry-level escalation role where you’ll grow technical expertise in lab automation within a regulated healthcare environment. You’ll work alongside experienced engineers, influence service improvements, and expand your skills with PLCs, vision systems, and robotics — all while supporting mission-driven lab operations.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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