Automation Engineer (Mechanical)
Foxconn is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer (Mechanical) to support the design, development, and implementation of automation solutions within our advanced electronics manufacturing environment. This role will focus on supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), PCBA manufacturing, system assembly, and production automation initiatives for leading technology customers.
The ideal candidate will combine strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with hands-on experience in manufacturing automation, fixture design, process optimization, and equipment integration. This position will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Program Management, and Operations teams to improve productivity, quality, and manufacturing scalability.
Department: Engineering
Location: San Jose, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time / Permanent
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, and workstations to support PCBA and system-level assembly processes.
Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by developing manufacturing solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and scalability.
Collaborate with customers and cross-functional teams to support new product development, prototype builds, and production ramp activities.
Create and maintain engineering documentation, including mechanical drawings, BOMs, assembly instructions, specifications, and ECOs.
Generate detailed 2D drawings and BOMs from 3D CAD models and ERP/SAP systems for prototype and production builds.
Perform Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and process capability reviews.
Support First Article Inspection (FAI) activities and engineering validation builds.
Design and develop assembly fixtures, test fixtures, jigs, poka-yoke devices, and automation systems to improve manufacturing quality and throughput.
Evaluate manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for automation, labor reduction, cycle time improvement, and cost optimization.
Work with SMT, PCBA, system assembly, and test engineering teams to improve production efficiency and equipment utilization.
Support equipment installation, qualification, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for manufacturing and equipment-related issues.
Lead product transfer activities between global manufacturing sites and ensure process consistency and readiness.
Partner with suppliers and automation vendors on equipment selection, design reviews, FAT/SAT activities, and implementation plans.
Stay current with emerging manufacturing technologies, automation trends, robotics, machine vision, and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Qualifications
Required Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and automation principles.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Proficiency with CAD software including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo (Pro-E), or similar platforms.
Experience creating mechanical drawings, GD&T, and engineering documentation.
Knowledge of DFM, DFA, FMEA, and process validation methodologies.
Familiarity with robotics, pneumatic systems, motion control, machine vision, sensors, and automated equipment is a plus.
Understanding of PCBA manufacturing processes, SMT equipment, system assembly, and test operations preferred.
Experience with SAP, PLM systems, or ERP systems is a plus.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting server, AI, networking, or high-performance computing products.
Experience with SMT manufacturing equipment, automation cells, conveyors, and material handling systems.
Familiarity with IPC standards and electronics manufacturing processes.
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Exposure to Industry 4.0, smart factory, and digital manufacturing initiatives.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
Minimum 2 years of engineering experience in manufacturing, automation, NPI, or related fields.
Experience in electronics manufacturing, EMS, PCBA, SMT, or system integration environments preferred.
Experience supporting automation projects, fixture design, manufacturing equipment, or process development.
Previous leadership or project management experience is a plus.
English proficiency required.
Mandarin proficiency is highly preferred.
Pay Range: $80,000 - $105,000/year
Full Time, Exempt Status
Foxconn Assembly, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or marital status in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.
Foxconn Assembly, LLC participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.