Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Special Purpose Machine (SPM) Automation Engineer to join our team. This role involves the end-to-end responsibility of designing, procuring, building, and deploying custom automation machinery tailored to specific manufacturing needs at factory sites. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional design thinking skills, with a strong emphasis on conceptual design and the creation of accurate engineering drawings.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, efficient, and scalable automation solutions that enhance productivity and quality in industrial environments.

Key Responsibilities:

Concept Design and Ideation

- Utilize advanced design thinking methodologies to conceptualize innovative SPM solutions that address unique manufacturing challenges.

- Conduct feasibility studies, brainstorm creative automation concepts, and develop initial design proposals based on client or factory requirements.

- Analyze process workflows, material handling needs, and production goals to create tailored machine concepts that optimize efficiency, performance, ergonomics and safety.

- Translate abstract ideas into functional design frameworks, ensuring alignment with operational objectives and technical constraints.

Engineering Drawings and Detailed Design

- Produce high-quality, simple to use, detailed engineering drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar) that meet industry standards (e.g., ASME, ISO).

- Develop comprehensive 2D and 3D models, including part layouts, assemblies, and exploded views, to guide the fabrication and assembly process.

- Incorporate tolerances, material specifications, and manufacturing annotations into drawings to ensure precision and clarity for downstream teams.

- Iterate designs based on feedback from stakeholders, simulations, and prototype testing, maintaining a focus on functionality, safety, and cost-efficiency.

- Must have working experience to design, integrate IOT platforms into the design and enable a working IOT solution at the time of delivery.

Procurement and Vendor Coordination
- Identify and source components, materials, and subsystems required for SPM construction, ensuring compatibility with design specifications.

- Collaborate with contract manufacturing facilities, suppliers, and vendors to negotiate pricing, lead times, and quality standards for mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic/hydraulic components.

- Evaluate off-the-shelf solutions versus custom-built parts to balance cost, timeline, and performance requirements.





- Maintain detailed procurement documentation and ensure timely delivery of materials to support project schedules.

Build and Assembly Oversight
- Supervise and contribute to the hands-on fabrication, assembly, and integration of SPMs, ensuring adherence to engineering drawings and design intent.

- Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to integrate automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, and robotics.

- Troubleshoot and resolve issues during the build phase, adapting designs as needed to accommodate real-world constraints or unforeseen challenges.

- Ensure compliance with safety standards (e.g., OSHA, CE) and factory-specific regulations during construction.

Deployment at Factory Sites
- Plan and execute the installation, commissioning, and testing of SPMs at factory locations, ensuring seamless integration into existing production lines.

- Conduct on-site performance evaluations, fine-tuning machine parameters to meet output, reliability, and quality targets.

- Train factory personnel on machine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to facilitate smooth handover and long-term success.

- Provide post-deployment support, addressing any operational issues and optimizing machine performance based on real-world usage data.

Collaboration and Documentation
- Work closely with project managers, process engineers, vendors, contract manufacturing facilities and clients to align machine designs with broader manufacturing goals.

- Document all stages of the project lifecycle, including design rationale, procurement records, build notes, and deployment reports.

- Present concepts, progress updates, and final solutions to stakeholders through detailed reports, visualizations, and live demonstrations.

Requirements

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Technical Skills

- Design Thinking Expertise: Proven ability to apply design thinking principles to solve complex automation challenges, with a portfolio showcasing creative and practical SPM concepts.

- Engineering Drawing Proficiency: Mastery of CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA) for creating accurate, detailed technical drawings and 3D models.

- Automation Knowledge: Strong understanding of automation technologies, including PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, pneumatic, hydraulics, and sensor integration.





- Manufacturing Processes: Familiarity with industrial manufacturing techniques (e.g., machining, welding, assembly) and their implications for machine design.

- Project Management: Experience managing end-to-end projects, from concept to deployment, with a focus on timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.

Soft Skills
- Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical skills to identify causes, devise solutions, and adapt designs to evolving requirements.

- Communication: Ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including engineers, factory workers, and executives.

- Attention to Detail: Precision in design and documentation to ensure error-free execution during procurement, build, and deployment phases.

- Team Collaboration: Comfort working in multidisciplinary teams and coordinating with external vendors and on-site personnel.

Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

- 5+ years of experience in designing and deploying special purpose machines or custom automation systems.

- Hands-on experience with factory site deployments and a track record of successful project delivery.

- Certifications in CAD software, PLC programming, or Lean Manufacturing are a plus.

Preferred Attributes
- Innovative mindset with a passion for pushing the boundaries of automation technology.

- Ability to thrive in energetic, fast-paced environments and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

- Willingness to travel to factory sites for deployment and support (domestic and international, as needed).

- Experience with simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, MATLAB) for validating designs prior to build.

- Travel is a must, and can be extended stay at factory sites during discovery, installation, and commissioning, proving stages.

Working Conditions
- Combination of office-based design work and hands-on activity in workshop or factory environments.

- Occasional exposure to loud noises, machinery, and industrial settings during build and deployment phases.

- Flexibility to work extended hours during critical project milestones or site installations.

Benefits

Why Join Us?
- This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing through cutting-edge automation solutions.
- You’ll work on challenging, high-impact projects, leveraging your design expertise to create machines that transform factory operations.
- We provide a collaborative culture, access to advanced tools, and opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry.

📌 SPM Automation Lead - Machine Automation and IOT (Malad West)
🏢 Yashuss Unlimited
📍 Malad West