Engineering Specialist, Automation

Ford Ford · Auto · Louisville, KY +1 · Manufacturing

This role focuses on applying, implementing, and optimizing automated control systems, robotics, and industrial machinery within a manufacturing environment to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety. It involves expertise in Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), automated dock systems, fleet management, and integration with enterprise systems like ERP/WMS/MES. The position also requires process improvement, project leadership, and a strong understanding of PLC interfaces and digital integration.

What you'd actually do

  1. Apply designs, implement, and optimize automated control systems, robotics, and industrial machinery to maximize manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and operational safety.
  2. Evaluate, pilot, implement, and optimize new logistics technologies.
  3. Define functional requirements, layouts, and traffic logic for AMR/AGV systems.
  4. Integrate AMR/AGV systems with ERP, WMS, and MES.
  5. Lead or support automation, digitalization, and smart factory initiatives.

Skills

Required

  • Experience with Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) / Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
  • Experience with automated dock systems
  • Experience defining functional requirements, layouts, and traffic logic for AMR/AGV systems
  • Understanding of fleet management systems, task orchestration, and exception handling
  • Experience integrating AMR/AGV systems with ERP, WMS, and MES
  • Working knowledge of PLC interfaces, sensors, scanners, and safety systems
  • Strong data analysis skills (Excel, Power BI, SQL, or similar)
  • Experience in automation or manufacturing operations
  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial/Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related experience

Nice to have

  • Experience with ASRS material storage/retrieval systems
  • Preference with Allen Bradley and Siemens PLCs
  • Experience in high-volume manufacturing or automotive environments