Lead Industrial Engineer, Global Automation

General Overview

Functional Area:  Engineering        
Career Stream:  Equipment Engineering Manufacturing    
SAP Short Name:  LEN-ENG-EQM
Job Level:  Level 08
IC/MGR:  Individual Contributor        
Direct/Indirect Indicator:  Indirect

Summary

As a key member of the Celestica Global Automation (CGA) team, the Lead Engineer is responsible for designing and optimizing world-class manufacturing environments. This role focuses on the integration of advanced automation—including robotics and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs)—with manual processes to streamline material flow and maximize floor efficiency.

The Lead Engineer leverages simulation tools to resolve complex manufacturing challenges, performing capacity calculations and warehouse optimizations to build scalable facilities. Reporting to the Senior Director of Automation Engineering, this position is based in the Richardson/Dallas area and serves as a critical technical resource for Celestica’s U.S. sites.

Detailed Description

Performs tasks such as, but not limited to, the following:

• Create comprehensive 2D and 3D facility layouts utilizing industry-standard design tools.

• Design automated, semi-automated, and manual material flow processes for diverse environments, including high-volume production and complex warehousing.

• Develop detailed simulations of assembly and material flows using tools like Emulate3D to identify bottlenecks, mitigate traffic congestion, and validate process improvements.

• Utilize AI-driven methodologies within simulated environments to optimize process flows and assembly line configurations.

• Conduct time studies and data collection to perform line balancing, ensuring peak operational efficiency.

• Lead automation projects through all phases of the Project Life Cycle, from initial concept to final implementation and documentation.

• Partner with automation peers and site stakeholders to deliver innovative, Lean-based solutions to customers.

• Maintain expert-level knowledge of emerging trends in automation, simulation, and emulation technologies.

Knowledge/Skills/Competencies

• Proficient in 2D/3D layout design and drafting principles using AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar platforms.

• Demonstrated experience in line balancing, cycle time analysis, and scenario testing. Experience with Emulate3D or robotic simulation systems is highly preferred.

• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing concepts, including Demand Flow, Cell Concepts, and Tooling/Fixturing.

• Ability to thrive in fast-changing, dynamic environments while managing multiple project priorities.

• Strong professional written and verbal communication skills; able to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

• (Preferred) Knowledge of financial modeling, including ROI and Payback period calculations for automation investments.

Physical Demands

• Duties of this position are performed in a normal office environment.
• Duties may require extended periods of sitting and sustained visual concentration on a computer monitor or on numbers and other detailed data. 
• Repetitive manual movements (e.g., data entry, using a computer mouse, using a calculator, etc.) are frequently required.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Typical Experience

• Minimum of 3–5+ years as a designer or engineer in the industrial automation field. Experience in electronics manufacturing is a significant plus.

Typical Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Educational Requirements may vary by Geography

Notes

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities of the position. Employees are held accountable for all duties of the job. Job duties and the % of time identified for any function are subject to change at any time.