Mechatronics Engineer
Position Summary:
The Mechatronics Engineer plays a critical role in optimizing industrial processes by integrating control systems, automation technologies, and engineering best practices to improve efficiency, reliability, safety, and overall operational performance. This position is responsible for the design, development, integration, standardization, and continuous improvement of automation and software systems that support data collection, smart manufacturing, and digital transformation initiatives across the facility.
Working closely with Controls, Process, and Maintenance teams, the Mechatronics Engineer develops and maintains applications, databases, dashboards, and connectivity solutions that link machines, robots, and enterprise systems. Through collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders, the role drives process improvements and enables data-driven decision-making, performance visibility, and predictive operational enhancements that support operational excellence.
Essential Functions:
- Analyze existing industrial processes to identify areas for optimization, including inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and opportunities for automation.
- Design, develop, and implement control systems and software architecture to regulate and monitor industrial processes, ensuring optimal performance, productivity, and quality.
- Maintain Python, C#, and database-based applications that interface with automation equipment.
- Manage and execute software-related requests from production line teams, ensuring quick resolution and long-term scalability.
- Utilize process control techniques, such as PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) tuning, advanced control algorithms, and optimization strategies, to improve process stability and efficiency.
- Select and integrate control hardware, instrumentation, sensors, and actuators to enable real-time monitoring and control of process variables.
- Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and other automation platforms to execute control strategies.
- Collaborate with process engineers, quality engineers, and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive solutions that address process and control requirements.
- Conduct risk assessments and implement safety systems, such as Emergency Shutdown Systems (ESS) and Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Perform data analysis and utilize statistical methods to identify trends, diagnose process issues, and optimize control strategies.
- Lead or support process improvement projects, including process optimization, equipment upgrades, and technology advancements, to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise to operations teams during process startups, shutdowns, and maintenance activities.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechatronics, electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, software engineering, or industrial engineering. Advanced degrees (e.g. Master’s or PhD) are a plus.
- Minimum 1 year of experience with software development or control system design and implementation, including PLC programming, DCS configuration, and HMI/SCADA development.
Other Skills and Abilities:
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C#, or JavaScript, and experience with SQL databases (MySQL, SQL Server, PostgreSQL).
- Familiarity with industrial automation technologies, such as instrumentation, control valves and motors.
- Knowledge of development and improvement of work processes related to electro-mechanical assemblies.
- Knowledge of design and implementation of engineering experiments.
- PC skills including Windows, MS Work, MS Excel, MS access, AutoCAD or related software.
- Experienced in general maintenance areas including pneumatics, electrical and hydraulics.
- Project management experience, including the ability to plan, execute and manage projects from concept to completion.
- Proficient in data analysis tools and techniques, such as statistical process control (SPC), data visualization, and trend analysis.
- Must possess leadership skills and be able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of management and employees.
- Ability to function and execute in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work cross-functionally with engineers from different disciplines.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- Able to stand, stoop and bend.
- Ability to walk and stand on cement floors for long periods.
- Able to work in warehouse environment with no central heat or air.
- Able to sit at desk and use/view computer for prolonged periods of time, up to 8 hours daily.
Quanta Nashville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sex, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.