Automation Mechatronics Engineer – arenaflex – arenaflex Store

About arenaflex – Pioneering Innovation in Landscape Equipment and Automation

Founded in 1914 and rooted in the heart of Minnesota, arenaflex has grown from a modest family‑run operation into a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of cutting‑edge equipment for residential, commercial, and professional landscapes. From world‑renowned golf courses to bustling stadiums, arenaflex’s products keep the world’s most iconic green spaces looking pristine. With a proud heritage of more than a century, a workforce that averages 15 years of tenure, and a culture that celebrates curiosity, community, and continuous improvement, arenaflex offers a unique platform for engineers who want to shape the future of automated manufacturing while contributing to a company that truly cares about people and the planet.

Why This Role Matters – The Impact of Automation at arenaflex

In today’s fast‑moving manufacturing environment, the ability to design, integrate, and maintain intelligent equipment is a strategic differentiator. As an Automation Mechatronics Engineer at arenaflex, you will be at the forefront of transforming traditional production lines into smart, data‑driven ecosystems. Your work will directly influence product quality, delivery speed, and the overall sustainability of our operations, helping arenaflex maintain its reputation for excellence while driving the next wave of innovation.

Key Responsibilities – What You’ll Do Every Day

• Design & Integration: Lead the specification, design, programming, installation, and troubleshooting of automated manufacturing equipment—including PLC‑based control systems, industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots), smart tooling, and custom run‑up tables—to support fabrication, welding, painting, assembly, and testing processes.
• Documentation & Knowledge Management: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation packages such as electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, maintenance spare‑parts lists, operating instructions, and software version control. Ensure that all documentation complies with industry standards and internal best practices.
• Cross‑Site Collaboration: Partner with engineering teams at other arenaflex facilities to evaluate legacy equipment, identify upgrade opportunities, and implement data‑acquisition solutions that boost efficiency, reliability, and functionality.
• Project Budget & Inventory Oversight: Manage project budgets, track inventory of critical components, and report financial status to senior leadership, ensuring projects stay within scope and cost targets.
• Equipment Optimization: Diagnose performance gaps in existing automation, propose modifications, and oversee the implementation of enhancements that increase throughput, reduce waste, and improve safety.
• Capital Planning: Assist in the development of capital request packages, providing technical justification, ROI analysis, and risk assessments for new automation initiatives.
• Project Management & Reporting: Lead system development, optimization, and support projects from concept through commissioning. Deliver regular verbal and written status updates to stakeholders, highlighting milestones, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Supervise and mentor a team of Mechatronics Technicians, fostering a culture of learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Technical Training: Design and deliver formal and informal training sessions for production associates, site technicians, and cross‑functional teams on equipment operation, troubleshooting, and safety protocols.
• Hands‑On Support: Provide rapid, expert-level troubleshooting for PLCs, motion controllers, and other automated equipment on the shop floor, minimizing downtime and ensuring consistent production flow.
• Technology Scouting: Stay abreast of emerging industrial technologies, evaluate their relevance to arenaflex’s manufacturing environment, and recommend pilot projects or adoption strategies.

Essential Qualifications – What We Require

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electromechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline.
• For Engineer II level: 2–4 years of hands‑on experience designing, integrating, and supporting automated manufacturing systems.
• For Engineer III level: 5+ years of progressive experience in automation system development, with a proven track record of delivering complex projects.
• Strong working knowledge of industrial electrical systems, including AC power distribution, servo‑motor drives, pneumatic and hydraulic control circuits, and safety interlocks.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and familiarity with major platforms such as Allen‑Bradley (Rockwell Automation), Siemens, and Mitsubishi.
• Experience with industrial robot programming (Fanuc, KUKA, ABB) and integration of vision systems, sensors, and IoT devices is highly desirable.
• Understanding of relevant electrical and safety codes (NEC, NFPA 70E, ISO 13849, IEC 61508) and ability to apply them in design and documentation.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, with the ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, GD&T, and assembly instructions.
• Flexibility to provide off‑hours support, including weekend and holiday coverage, as required by production schedules.
• Self‑motivated, independent thinker who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager to mentor junior staff.

Preferred Experience & Additional Skills

• Advanced programming experience with Rockwell Automation Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, or similar development environments.
• Hands‑on experience with robot simulation tools (RoboDK, RobotStudio) and offline programming for rapid deployment.
• Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Creo, or PTC Windchill for creating and modifying mechanical layouts and electrical panel designs.
• Familiarity with data‑acquisition platforms (NI LabVIEW, OPC UA, MQTT) and the ability to develop dashboards for real‑time equipment monitoring.
• Project management certification (PMP, CAPM) or experience leading cross‑functional projects using Agile or Lean methodologies.
• Exposure to Industry 4.0 concepts, including digital twins, predictive maintenance, and AI‑driven process optimization.

Core Competencies – Skills for Success

• Analytical Problem‑Solving: Ability to dissect complex automation issues, identify root causes, and implement robust solutions.
• Communication: Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills for drafting technical documents, delivering training, and presenting project updates to senior leadership.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams—mechanical engineers, software developers, production managers, and external vendors.
• Innovation Mindset: Curiosity about emerging technologies and a proactive approach to integrating them into existing processes.
• Safety Focus: Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment, adhering to all safety protocols, and promoting a culture of zero incidents.
• Time Management: Skillful juggling of multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining high quality standards.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities at arenaflex

arenaflex invests heavily in the professional development of its engineers. As part of our team, you will have access to:

• Tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees or certifications in automation, robotics, or engineering management.
• In‑house technical workshops covering the latest PLC platforms, robot programming languages, and Industry 4.0 tools.
• Mentorship programs pairing you with senior engineers and industry experts to accelerate your career trajectory.
• Opportunities to lead high‑visibility capital projects, gaining experience that prepares you for senior engineering or management roles.
• Cross‑functional rotations that expose you to supply chain, quality assurance, and product development, broadening your business acumen.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits – What arenaflex Offers

While exact compensation will be aligned with experience, education, and market benchmarks, arenaflex provides a competitive total rewards package that includes:

• Base Salary: A range typically between $77,000 and $112,000 annually, with the potential for performance‑based bonuses.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with flexible spending accounts and wellness programs that support mental and physical health.
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with company match to help you build a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off & Volunteerism: Generous vacation, holidays, and 20 paid hours per year dedicated to community volunteer activities.
• Flexible Dress Code: A casual‑corporate environment that lets you dress comfortably for the day’s tasks.
• Learning Resources: Access to online learning platforms, industry conferences, and internal knowledge‑sharing sessions.
• Modern Facilities: A state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing campus in Tomah, WI, equipped with ergonomic workstations, on‑site cafeteria, and fitness amenities.
• Early Pay Access: Ability to access earned wages through the One@Work app, providing financial flexibility when needed.

Work Environment & Culture at arenaflex

arenaflex prides itself on a culture that blends tradition with forward‑thinking innovation. Our employees enjoy:

• A collaborative atmosphere where ideas are welcomed from every level of the organization.
• Commitment to safety, with rigorous training programs and a zero‑incident goal.
• Recognition programs that celebrate technical achievements, teamwork, and community involvement.
• Inclusive policies that ensure equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.
• Employee resource groups that foster diversity, mentorship, and personal growth.

How to Apply – Join arenaflex’s Automation Team

If you are passionate about turning complex mechanical systems into intelligent, data‑driven solutions, and you thrive in a dynamic, supportive environment, we want to hear from you. Submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your most relevant automation projects, technical expertise, and why you are excited to contribute to arenaflex’s mission of beautifying landscapes worldwide.

Take the next step in your engineering career—apply today and become a catalyst for innovation at arenaflex!