Automation Engineer New Product Development

We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Engineer New Product Development to join our Engineering team in Oberlin, OH. The Automation Engineer New Product Development (NPD) is a forward-focused engineering role dedicated exclusively to the design, development, and innovation of new automation equipment and systems. This position drives the technical vision for next-generation products, establishes engineering standards, and transforms market opportunities into manufacturable solutions.

 Who We Are

AdeptAg LLC is a leader in the controlled environment agriculture industry as an integrator of growing solutions for our customers both domestic and international. AdeptAg is constantly helping to meet the challenges of today’s growers with innovative and cost-efficient solutions.

 Why Work for Us

Competitive Compensation Package, including Generous 401K (with Company Paid Contribution), Medical, Dental, Vision, Company Paid Life Insurance, Voluntary Life Insurance, Voluntary Accident Insurance and Disability Insurance.

 Responsibilities:

New Equipment Development

Concept Development: Lead the conceptualization and feasibility analysis of new automation systems, translating market needs and customer requirements into viable technical solutions.

System Design: Design and develop complete automation systems including electrical architecture, control system topology, and software/firmware requirements.

Programming & Controls: Develop PLC programs, HMI interfaces, motion control algorithms, and vision systems for new equipment using IEC 61131-3 standards and CODESYS V3.5.

Prototype Development: Build and validate proof-of-concept prototypes to verify design assumptions and demonstrate technical feasibility.

Testing & Validation: Design and execute comprehensive testing protocols to validate system performance against specifications and customer requirements.

Production Release: Prepare complete documentation packages including electrical schematics, BOMs, assembly procedures, and test specifications for production handoff.

Standards Development

Engineering Standards: Develop and maintain engineering standards for electrical design, programming conventions, component selection, and documentation practices.

Design Guidelines: Create and update design guidelines that ensure consistency, quality, and manufacturability across the product portfolio.

Component Standardization: Lead efforts to standardize components, modules, and subsystems to improve serviceability, reduce costs, and accelerate development cycles.

Safety & Compliance: Ensure all new designs meet applicable safety standards (UL, NFPA, CE) and regulatory requirements for target markets.

Product Vision

Technology Roadmap: Contribute to the development and maintenance of the technology roadmap, identifying emerging technologies and capabilities for future products.

Innovation Research: Research and evaluate new technologies, components, and methods that could enhance product capabilities or reduce costs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with sales, marketing, and operations to understand market trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs that inform product direction.

Technical Leadership: Provide technical mentorship to other engineering team members and represent engineering in new product planning discussions.

IP Development: Identify and document innovations that may be candidates for intellectual property protection, contributing to the company's competitive advantage.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, skills, and abilities required):

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field. Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

3+ years of experience in automation system design and development

Demonstrated experience taking products from concept through production release

Experience with machine vision systems and integration is a plus

Background in greenhouse, agriculture, or controlled environment systems is a plus

Valid driver’s license (required for work-related travel).

Valid passport and ability to travel across the Canada–U.S. border

Expert-level proficiency in PLC programming, with strong preference for IEC 61131-3 and CODESYS experience

Strong electrical engineering fundamentals including circuit design, component selection, and panel layout

Experience with motion control systems, VFDs, servo drives, and robotics integration

Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD Electrical) for electrical design and documentation

Understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus, CAN)

Strong analytical and creative problem-solving abilities

Excellent documentation skills with attention to detail

Ability to work independently and drive projects from concept to completion

 If you are a self-starter with a strong work ethic and a passion for excellence, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.