Automation engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Amazon is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer to lead the evaluation, customization, and deployment of automated mechanical systems that support our advanced robotics programs. This role serves as the technical lead for mechanical hardware strategy, vendor engagement, system integration, and operational readiness across a range of automation platforms.

You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges. This role requires deep experience with automated assembly systems, robotic platforms, material handling, and safety systems, along with the ability to think holistically—connecting vendor evaluation, mechanical design, and system-level performance. You will act as a technical leader within the broader engineering organization, driving alignment and execution across design, quality, and manufacturing domains.

Key job responsibilities
- Own end-to-end evaluation and selection of commercially available automation solutions, critically assessing designs against internal use cases and driving informed make-versus-buy decisions
- Work directly with vendors to customize mechanical and automation solutions to address varied and demanding requirements, leading technical evaluation, qualification, and deployment
- Deep dive mechanical failures during pilots and early deployments to identify root causes, critically evaluate vendor assertions, and drive corrective actions
- Independently design, develop, and validate mechanical hardware for automated systems including workstations, robotic arms, safety systems, material handling, and part load/unload mechanisms
- Develop and deliver detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, trade studies, and technical documentation using SolidWorks or NX
- Define fixturing, tooling, and workholding strategies to ensure repeatability, precision, and efficient integration across automation platforms
- Build and manage relationships with automation OEMs, system integrators, and component suppliers, leading technical discussions and driving accountability for deliverables
- Collaborate cross-functionally with systems engineers, product managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure cohesive planning, integration, and execution of automated solutions
- Establish and maintain comprehensive documentation including design reviews, failure analyses, process validation records, and standard operating procedures
- Contribute to the growth of the engineering team by mentoring peers, training junior engineers, and participating in design reviews and hiring activities
- Evaluate emerging automation technologies, materials, and techniques and recommend strategic investments to enhance capabilities

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
- Bachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related field
- 7+ years of experience in mechanical hardware design, development, and validation for automated or robotic systems
- Proven ability to independently design and deliver mechanical hardware from concept through production with limited guidance
- Strong CAD proficiency (SolidWorks or NX) with experience producing detailed drawings, assemblies, and technical documentation
- Experience evaluating vendor designs and making informed make-versus-buy trade-off decisions
- Demonstrated ability to perform root cause analysis on mechanical failures and drive corrective actions
- Experience working with external vendors and system integrators to deliver customized technical solutions
- Proficiency in data-driven decision making, including use of trade studies, structured problem solving, and technical risk assessment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Master's degree or above in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related field
- Experience with high-volume manufacturing line design and deployment
- Knowledge of robotic safety standards (e.g., ISO 10218, ANSI/RIA 15.06) and material handling standards
- Experience working with traditional robotic systems and custom automation solutions such as gantries, pick-and-place robots, and vision systems
- Understanding of industrial control systems and PLC/HMI programming capabilities
- Experience designing and scaling automated systems in high-throughput production environments
- Familiarity with system architecture trade-offs, standardization strategies, and lifecycle management
- Experience driving continuous improvement initiatives with measurable impact on system performance and reliability
- Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable plans for diverse stakeholders

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers.