Principal Engineer - Automation

Principal Engineer - Automation

Work Location: Thailand

Employment Type: Full time

Experience Level: Senior (7+ years)

Target Industry: Semiconductor / Advanced Manufacturing Automation

Target Salary: Up to THB 150,000 per month

About the Role

We are looking for a highly experienced automation specialist to lead the design, development, and deployment of end-to-end Industry 4.0 automation solutions within a high-tech manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys driving innovation, leading cross-functional teams, and building complex automation systems from concept to implementation.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Design & Development

• Serve as the technical expert for end-to-end automation solutions, including equipment automation, material handling automation, robotic systems, WIP automation, and system integration.
• Lead automation projects from concept study through feasibility, POC, implementation, and handover.
• Improve and optimize existing automation systems to meet KPIs such as UPH, OEE, MTBF, incident rate, and throughput.

Project Leadership

• Gather requirements, align with cross-functional stakeholders, and translate business needs into technical specifications.
• Lead feasibility studies, POCs, and equipment purchasing specifications with internal and external engineering teams.
• Drive automation partners and internal teams across hardware, software, architecture, and system interfaces.

System Integration

• Design control architecture, SECS/GEM 200/300 interfaces, sequence diagrams, load/unload automation, and equipment integration.
• Oversee system setup, trial runs, testing, buyoff, change management, documentation, and training.

Sustaining & Technical Support

• Provide ongoing support for automation systems, including troubleshooting, continuous improvement, and incident management.
• Support maintenance teams and ensure operational stability.

Strategic Contribution

• Research and evaluate new automation technologies, develop standards, and contribute to automation roadmaps.
• Coach and guide site automation teams on project execution and sustainability.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Automation Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Robotics Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Software Engineering
  or related disciplines.

Required Experience

• 5+ years of experience in semiconductor or advanced manufacturing automation.
• Strong track record in designing and developing customized automation solutions (equipment, auto load/unload, material handling systems, robotic/cobot solutions).
• Experience in PLC, PC-based control systems, and cell/machine control integration.
• Hands-on experience with SECS/GEM 200/300 communication protocols.
• Experience leading engineering teams (3+ years).
• Proficiency with 2D/3D CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor).
• Experience with application development or database management (MySQL, MS SQL, Oracle, MongoDB).

Preferred Skills

• Experience with smart factory design, MES/AMHS systems, EAP/EAF integration.
• Software development in C#, C++, Python, or Java.
• Knowledge of networking (switch configuration, VLANs, wireless APs).
• Understanding of RESTful APIs and integration frameworks.
• Project management experience (PMP certification is a plus).
• Experience with simulation tools such as FlexSim.

Soft Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently in a high-pressure environment.
• Proactive mindset with strong ownership and follow-through.
• Good command of English (written and spoken).