Design Engineer 2

NA Manufacturing Development – Automation R&D

Job Summary:

The Advanced Automation R&D Engineer (E2) supports discovery and validation of proven and emerging industrial technologies for DENSO’s North American operations. This role leads the identification, proposal, and execution of proof of concept (PoC) and pilot projects that advance manufacturing and logistics automation levels. It focuses on planning, technical development, and validating new systems that support the evolution of factory autonomy. The engineer works closely with teams across production innovation centers, IT/OT departments, and regional affiliates to ensure initiatives align with DENSO’s strategic and operational goals. Occasional travel (5–15%) is required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Automation Technology Identification & Proposal

• Support the selection, proposal, and deployment of proven and emerging automation technologies to improve DENSO NA’s KPIs and operational performance.

• Assess technology readiness and develop implementation plans that address safety, quality, cost, and delivery risks.

• Ensure solutions are scalable and support standardization across plants and affiliates through cross‑functional collaboration.

2. Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead projects from concept, budgetary and feasibility studies, into PoC and pilot deployments within manufacturing operations.

• Develop project and test plans, ensuring clear communication and executive alignment at key milestones.

• Define acceptance criteria and KPIs with stakeholders.

• Manage project budgets, schedules, and cross‑site coordination.

3. Technology Validation & Testing

• Collaborate with various teams to evaluate automation solutions against operational goals.

• Prepare test reports and milestone presentations that summarize findings and recommendations.

• Coordinate and/or perform PoC testing and champion the technology into pilot launches with stakeholder support.

4. Continuous Improvement & Optimization

• Evaluate automation potential & performance by work analysis in collaboration with other departments and utilize simulation-based efficiency benchmarking where appropriate.

• Monitor post‑implementation performance to ensure ROI and productivity targets are met.

• Promote reuse and standardization of systems across affiliate sites through collaboration with automation & improvement teams.

5. Technology Scouting & Development

• Stay current on emerging technologies, vendor capabilities, and industry trends.

• Periodic participation in key US trade shows, benchmarking activities, outreach activities, and innovation workshops with private, academic, or government partners.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical/engineering field.

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in automation, manufacturing or logistics engineering, with exposure to automation projects and/or process engineering.

• Technical & Leadership Skills:

  • Strong understanding of automation technologies (e.g., Industrial machinery, robotics, machine vision systems, sensing, conveyors, AGVs/AMRs, PLC & other control systems).

• Proven ability to lead projects involving cross-functional teams and multiple stakeholders.

• Exceptional project management skills, including timeline, budget, and external vendor coordination.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with industrial control systems, digital transformation initiatives, Industrial IoT concepts, and SCADA/middleware integration with automation.

• Experience with new line system planning or new product launches, autonomous mobile robots, AI-based technologies, and 2D/3D vision systems for robotic guidance.

• Working knowledge of industrial safety standards and risk assessment process.

• Passion for emerging technologies and innovation in manufacturing environments.

• Experience collaborating with national labs, academic institutions, or external R&D partners, and start-ups.

• Certifications such as PMP, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing are a plus.

• Ability to plan system layouts and concept designs using 2D/3D CAD software tools.

• Proficient in programming languages such as Python, C++, or similar.

Work Environment & Travel Requirements

• Primarily office-based with regular engagement in factory environments and exposure to automation equipment and logistics systems.

• Occasional collaboration with DENSO Japan outside of standard working hours may be required.

• Travel: Approximately 5–15% domestic travel to DENSO NA manufacturing sites based on project needs, with limited potential for international travel.

• Physical requirements include standing, walking, occasional lifting, and navigating shop or manufacturing floor environments.

Benefits Summary: