Automation Systems Engineer 2

Mini-Circuits designs, manufactures and distributes integrated circuits, modules, and sub-systems for high-performance radio frequency (RF) and microwave applications.  With design, sales, and manufacturing locations in over 30 countries, Mini-Circuits’ products are used in a range of wired and wireless communications applications. Our products are also used in detection, measurement, and imaging applications, including military communication, guidance, and electronic countermeasure systems, commercial, scientific, military land, sea, and aircraft; automotive systems, medical systems, and industrial test equipment.  

Mini-Circuits sells its products to over 20,000 customers globally through our direct sales force, applications engineering staff, and sales representatives, as well as through our extensive website. 

Position Summary: 

Design, validate, and scale automated production test systems and robotic device handlers for RF and Microwave components. This role is responsible for enabling standardized architectures, throughput improvement, global alignment, and long-term scalability of automated test processes. 

Salary Range: $91,000 - $114,000 per year 

Job Function: 

• Test Handler Strategy Execution
  • Define, design, and validate standardized robotic test handlers, adaptable across multiple RF product lines.
  • Drive new handler integrations and improvements, document FPY, OEE, and operator experience metrics.
  • Collaborate with global teams (Brooklyn, Florida, India, Malaysia) to ensure alignment, backup-site readiness, and standardized deployment.
• System Design & Development
  • Analyze test and assembly processes to identify candidates for automation based on capacity, efficiency, and process control needs.
  • Develop scalable, modular designs for automated handlers, including mechanical, electrical, vision, and control systems.
  • Specify and integrate sensors (vision, position, presence), robotic arms, conveyors, and fixturing for precision RF component handling.
  • Incorporate RF test-specific requirements (grounding, thermal, high-frequency probing, shielding).
• Project Leadership
  • Prepare proposals, resource/budget estimates, and project plans for new automation initiatives.
  • Lead cross-functional reviews and maintain stakeholder communication from concept to qualification.
  • Manage vendor engagement, procurement, build, and qualification of handler systems.
• Documentation & Training
  • Create system specifications, qualification/buy-off plans, operation and maintenance procedures.
  • Train users and support personnel on deployed automation platforms.
• Sustaining & Continuous Improvement
  • Provide sustaining engineering support for deployed handler systems.
  • Drive continuous improvement in throughput, FPY, reliability, and maintainability.
  • Track and implement engineering changes and upgrades into future designs.
• Technology Awareness
  • Stay current with emerging automation technologies (vision, robotics, motion systems, AI-driven inspection) and evaluate for Mini-Circuits applications.

• BS/MS degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
• Strong background in automation design (mechanical/electrical/software integration).
• Experience with robotic systems, automated handlers, or precision motion/vision-based automation.
• Familiarity with high-mix/low-to-medium volume manufacturing environments.
• CAD proficiency (SolidWorks preferred).
• Controls programming experience (PLC, microcontrollers in C/C++, or equivalent).
• Data collection and analysis skills (Excel, JMP, Python).
• Preferred Knowledge:
  • Experience with automated inspection systems (AOI, Keyence, Cognex vision).
  • Knowledge of RF test process requirements and challenges.
  • Conveyor/robot integration, pneumatic actuators, precision fixturing.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, OEE analysis, and ROI calculations.
  • Exposure to manufacturing ERP and PLM systems (SAP, Arena PLM, etc.).
• Skills:
  • Strong communication and documentation skills.
  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams and vendor collaborations.
  • Capable of balancing hands-on design/build/debug with strategic project leadership.

PhysicalDemands: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfullyperform theessentialfunctionsofthisjob.Whileperformingthedutiesofthisjob,theemployee is regularlyrequired to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and use hands to operate a computer keyboard. The employee is occasionallyrequired to reach with hands and arms.The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Cultural Focus: 

• Displays enthusiasm and Passion for their work.
• Works to the standard of Uncompromising Quality by meeting or exceeding stated objectives and embracing continuous improvement.
• Exercises sound Business Judgement, ensuring that efforts are on track with the Company’s goals.
• Operates with the mindset of Customer Obsession – by meeting or exceeding expectations to both internal and external customers.
• Takes Accountability by taking ownership and accepting responsibility for their conduct and contributions.
• Demonstrates a strong sense of urgency and accomplishes tasks with Speed and attention to detail.
• Cooperates, collaborates and contributes to shared goals with a strong sense of Teamwork.
• Conducts themselves with Honesty & Integrity and treats all members with Trust & Respect.

• Must be a US citizen or US permanent resident
• Comply,understand,andsupportcorporatesafetyinitiativestoensureasafeworkenvironment
• AbilityandwillingnesstoabidebyCompany’sCodeof Conduct
• Occasional travel, some overnight, as required 

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans 
• 401(K) and Profit-Sharing Programs 
• Disability Insurance 
• Life Insurance 
• Employer-Sponsored Wellness Plans 
• Commuter Benefits 
• Hospital & Accident Indemnity Insurance 
• Employee Benefit Advocate & Employee Assistance Program