Engineer, Automation at TPI Composites, Inc in Warren, Rhode Island

Job Description:

TPI Composites is a global provider of structural composites products and has 50 years of experience in the design, development, prototyping and serial production of advanced lightweight composite structures. We specialize in molding lightweight composite products for the Transportation and Wind Energy industries.  TPI also provides a full range of services that can complement our customers’ extensive vehicle engineering capability. 

The Automation Engineer works within the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering team in the development and implementation of automated systems within the production process. Works alongside manufacturing and tooling engineers and collaborates across functional departments to determine existing automation capabilities and future opportunities. Our ideal candidate has a master's degree in engineering with a focus on automation, mechanical, electrical engineering, or relevant field. 

• Program, simulate and implement multi-axis robotic or machine path programs. 


• Design or specify automated systems. 


• Develop detailed automation implementation plans. 


• Evaluate through simulation singular processes through to full factory layouts. 


• Implement sensor technologies. 


• Develop or update specifications for automated systems. 


• Develop tests plans and lead validation efforts. 


• Define equipment acceptance criteria and evaluate results. 


• Identify areas of opportunity for automation solutions. 


• Model, simulate, evaluate, and propose automation solutions. 


• Conduct research, analyze, and evaluate information. 


• Generate and report detailed time studies. 


• Propose standards for automated systems. 


• Implement standards and best practices. 


• Create maintenance plans and procedures. 


• Perform safety analysis and risk assessments. 


• Research and develop new technologies. 


• Support trouble shooting efforts on automated systems. 


• Represent engineering in site and companywide efforts related to Industry 4.0. 

Education/Experience:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or similar field and 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.


• Capability in machine path programming, simulation, optimization, and implementation with multi-axis or robotic systems. 


• Capability in scripting. 


• Capability in CAD. 


• Solid understanding of automation equipment. 


• Experience with automated machine cells. 


• Ability to quickly understand automation equipment. 


• Strong analytical skills. 


• Creative thinking skills. 


• Strong problem-solving skills. 


• A desire to continually upgrade technical knowledge. 


• Proven ability to perform problem analysis and problem resolution. 


• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. 


• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. 


• Ability to work with vendors, customers, and employees. 


• Is informed of the latest automation technologies. 

Physical Demands/Work Environ

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  Ability to be on the factory floor for long periods of time, potentially working across shifts at times.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to noisy.