Manufacturing Engineer - Automation

Job Description: At Pentair, you will work alongside passionate problem-solvers who are committed to the future of our planet. We put our mission into practice, helping the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life's most essential resource. From our residential water filtration to industrial water management to pool products and more, our 9,000 global employees serve customers in more than 150 countries, working to help create a better world for people and the planet through smart, sustainable water solutions. We have an opportunity for a Manufacturing Engineer to join our Delavan, WI team. This role is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes across machining, molding, and assembly operations, while serving as a key contributor to the site's automation and digital manufacturing initiatives. The Manufacturing Engineer will lead manufacturing process improvements, productivity projects, quality initiatives, capital equipment implementation, and Lean manufacturing activities. In addition, this role will identify and execute automation opportunities through the application of robotics, machine vision systems, CNC process automation, automated assembly technologies, and manufacturing data integration. The position will partner closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and external vendors to modernize manufacturing systems and increase operational performance. You Will Manufacturing Engineering • Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing methods to reduce cost, improve quality, increase productivity, and enhance workplace safety. • Analyze workflow, labor utilization, equipment capability, space requirements, and manufacturing layouts to maximize operational efficiency. • Lead continuous improvement initiatives, kaizen events, value stream improvements, and waste reduction projects. • Support SQDCC objectives through manufacturing process improvements and problem-solving activities. • Establish and maintain manufacturing documentation including routings, work instructions, process flows, standard work, and manufacturing specifications. • Partner with Product Engineering to ensure designs support efficient and scalable manufacturing processes. • Estimate production times, staffing requirements, equipment capacity, and manufacturing costs. • Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities associated with quality, safety, delivery, and production concerns. • Participate in PFMEA development, process validation activities, quality planning, and RCCM investigations. • Support new product introductions and product transfer activities. • Manage capital equipment and process improvement projects from concept through implementation. • Create and sustain a safe manufacturing environment through process design and continuous improvement. Automation Engineering • Identify, evaluate, and implement automation opportunities within machining, molding, assembly, packaging, and material handling operations. • Lead the integration of robotic systems, collaborative robots (cobots), automated assembly equipment, and flexible manufacturing solutions. • Evaluate and implement machine vision systems for process verification, quality inspection, traceability, and error-proofing applications. • Support CNC process automation initiatives including robotic machine tending, pallet systems, automated part handling, in-process inspection, and tool life monitoring. • Work with equipment suppliers and system integrators to specify, install, validate, and commission automated equipment. • Troubleshoot manufacturing equipment, sensors, vision systems, robotics, and automated production systems to minimize downtime. • Support PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and automated production systems. • Develop and improve manufacturing data collection systems to support production monitoring, OEE improvement, and decision-making. • Assist in implementing Industry 4.0 technologies, smart manufacturing systems, and connected factory initiatives. • Drive automation projects that improve safety, ergonomics, quality, capacity, and labor efficiency. • Coordinate equipment acceptance testing, process qualification, and production startup activities for automation projects. Key Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering , Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field. • Manufacturing engineering experience supporting machining, molding, assembly, or high-volume manufacturing operations. • Experience leading process improvement and capital equipment projects. • Experience implementing or supporting manufacturing automation systems. • Working knowledge of robotics, machine vision systems, automated assembly equipment, and CNC manufacturing processes. • Experience troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and production systems. • Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation concepts. • Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and structured problem-solving methodologies. • Ability to analyze manufacturing processes and develop practical solutions to improve performance. • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and manufacturing documentation systems. • Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or JDE preferred. • CAD experience preferred. • Knowledge of manufacturing data analysis, OEE metrics, and production performance monitoring. • Excellent communication and project management skills. • Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams. Preferred Qualifications • Experience with industrial robotics (Fanuc, ABB, Universal Robots, Yaskawa, or similar). • Experience with machine vision systems for inspection and process control. • Experience with CNC machining processes and automation technologies. • Exposure to PLC programming and automated controls systems. • Experience with injection molding, machining, and assembly operations. • Knowledge of Industry 4.0, manufacturing analytics, Power BI, SQL, Python, or related digital manufacturing tools. • Experience implementing automated quality inspection systems and poka-yoke solutions. Compensation: For this full-time position working at this location, the anticipated annualized base pay range will be from $61200 - $113600 / year. At Pentair, it is not typical for an individual to be hired near the bottom or top of the pay range. Pentair considers various factors in determining actual compensation for this position at the expected location. Actual compensation will be commensurate with demonstrable level of experience and training, pertinent education including licensure and certifications, work location, and other relevant business or organizational needs. This position may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as, annual incentive bonus. Benefits: As a Pentair employee, you would enjoy a wide array of benefit options to help keep you and your family healthy and protected, health benefits, a generous 401(k), employee stock purchase program, disability benefits, life insurance, critical illness insurance, accident insurance, parental leave, caregiver leave, tuition reimbursement, plus paid time off and wellness programs to encourage a healthy work/life balance. Equal Opportunity Employer Pentair is an Equal Opportunity Employer. With our expanding global presence, cross-cultural insight and competence are essential for our ongoing success. We believe that a diverse workforce contributes different perspectives and creative ideas that enable us to continue to improve every day.