Automation Engineer

Qualification:B.E/ME in Automation or robotics, Mechatronics (Should have hands-on experience in building gantry automation system)

Location: Ambattur (Chennai)

Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on Automation Engineer to independently design, develop, and commission a cost-effective pick-and-place gantry system for automated Zinc (Zn) plate handling in our Zinc-Air battery.

The ideal candidate should have practical experience in building complete automation systems, from conceptualizing the mechanical structure and selecting components to integrating control systems and commissioning a working prototype.

The candidate will also be responsible for coordinating with fabrication vendors, explaining the proposed design, finalizing technical specifications, and ensuring the system is fabricated and implemented as intended. We are looking for someone who can take ownership of the entire development process, make independent engineering decisions, and deliver a reliable and economical solution with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities:

• Independently conceptualize and design the overall automation system, including the gantry structure and Zn plate handling mechanism.
• Identify and select suitable structural profiles, motors, actuators, sensors, drives, and controllers required to build the system.
• Develop the mechanical design and automation architecture, including component integration and control logic.
• Coordinate with fabrication vendors to communicate design concepts, discuss technical feasibility, finalize specifications, and oversee fabrication.
• Lead system assembly, integration, testing, and commissioning to deliver a fully functional prototype.
• Optimize the design for cost, reliability, and ease of fabrication and maintenance.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience in designing and building complete automation systems, from concept development to assembly and commissioning.
• Knowledge of PLCs and control system integration for coordinating automated operations.
• Experience with gantry mechanisms, pick-and-place systems, or similar automation equipment.
• Proficiency in CAD tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Fusion 360 for developing mechanical concepts and fabrication drawings.
• Ability to independently develop automation concepts, select components, and coordinate with fabrication vendors to bring designs to life.
• Experience working in a startup or a product development environment will be preferred.