Job Description
Job Location: ATEK Metal Technologies - New Hampton, IA 50659
Position Type: Full TimeATEK Metal Technologies is seeking an Automation Engineer to lead and support industrial automation initiatives in a high-impact foundry environment. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and continuously improving automation systems that drive safety, quality, and productivity across plant operations.
This is a hands-on engineering role with full ownership of automation projects—from concept through startup and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead automation initiatives supporting foundry processes
- Manage automation projects including budgeting, vendor coordination, installation, and startup
- Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, and robotic systems
- Use process data to optimize automation performance and reliability
- Support new product launches and ensure robust automation integration
- Ensure automation meets quoted cycle times, quality standards, and safety requirements
- Coordinate with outside integrators and equipment suppliers
- Maintain spare parts strategies and address obsolete systems
Qualifications
Required:
- High school diploma or GED (technical or engineering background preferred)
- 3+ years of experience in a foundry or manufacturing environment
- Hands-on industrial automation experience
- PLC programming and troubleshooting experience
- HMI development and modification experience
- Working knowledge of robotic programming and backups
- Strong organizational, communication, and project execution skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Automation, Electrical, Mechanical, or related)
- Aluminum foundry automation experience
- Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC experience
- PLC integration with robots, databases, or manufacturing systems
- CAD experience for automation concepts or layouts
Working Conditions
- Regular exposure to a foundry environment (heat, dust, fumes, noise)
- Occasional desk work for programming and documentation
