Manufacturing Engineer - Automation

The Ideal Tridon Group comprises a family of brands that support, secure, and connect the movement of air, fluid, and electricity in critical applications. With over 100 years of proven quality and a strong culture of service, we are the worldwide leader in clamps, strut, hose supports, conduit, fittings, and coupling solutions. Our products are engineered to meet the highest standards across a range of industries, and our commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer support ensures we're ready to meet the demands of today and tomorrow. At the Ideal Tridon Group, connections aren't just what we make-they're the heart of everything we do.

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer at our Corporate Office in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Summary:

Manufacturing Engineer - Automation is responsible for designing, building, and improving automated and semi-automated manufacturing processes to support production goals. This role combines hands-on floor engagement with engineering design, focusing heavily on continuous improvement initiatives throughout 2026 and beyond. Requires a self-driven engineer who can work independently, collaborate cross-functionally, and adapt to evolving manufacturing needs. This role plays a key part in advancing automation and operational efficiency across the plant.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and assemble automated and semi-automated equipment to support production.
• Spend time on the production floor to understand existing machinery and processes.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives (lean manufacturing, efficiency gains, waste reduction).
• Troubleshoot production, equipment, and process issues.
• Analyze machine fault data to improve operational efficiency.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, PFMEA, Work Instructions, flow charts.
• Support capital equipment projects including specification, sourcing, and execution.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to improve operational efficiency.
• Apply mistake-proofing (poka-yoke) concepts in equipment and process design.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or other relevant technical field or equivalent experience and education is required.
• 5 years preferred manufacturing engineering experience in the functions noted above.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing (5S, TPM, Standard Work, Quick Change), Hydraulic & pneumatic devices and controls, Servo motor motion control, and Mechanical feeders and parts handling.
• Experience with visual management tools and Lean manufacturing systems (e.g., visual controls, dashboards, KPI boards) is a plus.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Strong hands-on problem-solving ability in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.
• Focused on delivering measurable improvements in manufacturing.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Knowledge of safety standards and protocols related to automated systems.
• Adaptability to evolving technologies and industry best practices.
• Strong organizational & project tracking skills.
• Computer skills with proficiency in SolidWorks or experience with other 3D CAD software.

What we're Looking For:

• Self-driven and able to work without constant oversight.
• Willing to spend time on the production floor learning processes.
• Motivated to identify and execute improvements.

Compliance and Responsibilities:

• Assures compliance to all required industry standards and government requirements as stated in the Ideal-Tridon Quality Manual, Quality Management System, process documentation, and all Company Human Resources, Health, Safety, and Environmental guidelines to ensure customer requirements are met.
• Responsibility and authority to use the Lock Out / Tag Out procedure to shut down an operation for quality, safety, or environmental issues. The appropriate supervisor, lead, or manager will be notified of shut down.
• Maintains and protects all company, supplier, and customer proprietary and confidential information.

Work Environment & Culture:

Foster and embody the Ideal Tridon Group values:

• Devoted to Customers - Builds trusted relationships through service and reliability.
• We Care - Acts with integrity, accountability, and respect for others.
• Passionate About Growth - Committed to personal and team development.
• Positive Energy - Creates a collaborative, energizing work environment.
• We Find a Way - Resourceful, determined, and solutions-focused.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.