Automation Design Engineer

Deciding on a new career within Valmet can be an exciting prospect. Every day there are teams of Valmet employees around the world who share the feeling of achieving something great – that feeling when everything works together. Apply your expertise in new ways to continue the path of growth as an Automation Design Engineer. 

The Automation Design Engineer will play a key role in developing next‑generation Valvcon electric actuators, improving existing actuator platforms, and supporting cross‑functional engineering needs. This role blends mechanical design, electrical/controls engineering, firmware understanding, and test engineering, making it ideal for an engineer passionate about integrated mechatronic systems.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development & Engineering

• Design and enhance Valvcon™ electric actuator components, including mechanical subassemblies, gearing systems, housings, and mounting interfaces.
• Collaborate with external electronics engineers to integrate PCB assemblies, sensors, limit switches, and digital control modules into actuator designs.
• Support firmware and calibration interface requirements.

Systems & Automation Engineering

• Develop and validate actuator performance related to torque, duty cycle, environmental conditions, and safety certifications.
• Ensure designs are in compliance with NEMA, ATEX, IECEx, and CSA standards.
• Contribute to architecture for remote, backup‑power, and network‑connected actuator configurations.

Testing & Validation

• Define and execute, with the help of test technicians, test plans for functional, environmental, and endurance testing of electric actuators.
• Analyze mechanical performance (breakaway torque, stall torque, gearbox performance, duty cycle behavior).

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with manufacturing engineering to ensure designs are optimized for assembly, manufacturability, and cost.
• Support quality, sourcing, and supplier engagement activities when evaluating new components, suppliers, or materials.
• Partner with product management, service teams, and customers to translate use‑case requirements into actionable design specifications.

Documentation & Compliance

• Create and maintain engineering documentation: CAD models, drawings, BOMs, test reports, design notes, and regulatory compliance files.
• Ensure products meet all required certifications and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in product design or automation engineering (preferably electro‑mechanical systems).
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and mechanical design fundamentals.
• Working knowledge of motors, gearing, sensors, limit switches, industrial electronics, or embedded control hardware.
• Experience with testing methodologies and structured problem-solving (8D, DMAIC, FMEA, etc.).

Why Join Valmet?

• Work on industry-leading actuator technologies used worldwide.
• Join a collaborative R&D environment with significant autonomy and engineering depth.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a global organization.
• Contribute to sustainable and intelligent automation solutions shaping the future of flow control.

We Offer

We offer a dynamic work environment that values innovation and suits development-minded people who enjoy working in a fast-paced and energetic setting with opportunities for continual growth. We're looking for team-oriented people with a willingness to learn and contribute to our customers’ success. This includes a generous wage starting between $81k-108k/annual* and benefits package that offers a 401k with company match as well as company funded pension.

*Salary range is intended to provide a general guideline. Actual compensation will be determined based on market data, internal equity, and candidate credentials.”

Please note that any offer of employment is contingent upon a background check and pre-employment physical and drug screen.

Additional Information

Delivering competitive technologies and services is what we do best. At Valmet, we continue to push forward and develop ourselves, concentrating on technology, services, sustainability, local presence, and our people. To be included in the recruiting process, please apply directly with us online.

Where everything works together

Valmet is where the best talent from a wide variety of backgrounds comes together. With 19,000 professionals around the world, we are the leading global developer and supplier of technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. Our commitment to moving our customer's performance forward requires creativity, technological innovations, service know-how - and above all, teamwork.

Join the team! www.valmet.com/careersna 

Please note that Valmet will never ask for personal financial information during the interview process. If you feel you have been a victim of an online job posting scam, please notify the Federal Trade Commission.