Automation Process Engineer

Automation Process Engineer

BASQUEVOLT

Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

Your Role

As a key player in our dynamic team, you will be responsible for defining and industrializing the cell assembly process of Basquevolt’s semi-solid proprietary Li-ion cells, with a strong focus on automation: PLC programming, commissioning, machine integration and continuous improvement of automated assembly lines.

• Participate in the selection, specification and validation of new battery cell assembly machines and automation architecture (PLC/HMI, safety, networks);
• Lead commissioning activities (FAT/SAT), start-up and ramp-up of automated assembly lines, ensuring performance, safety and compliance;
• Develop, debug and maintain PLC programs and HMI/SCADA screens in collaboration with OEMs/integrators and internal teams;
• Define product and process specifications for the various battery designs with the R&D teams and participate in the study of new battery designs;
• Design and implement process control strategies: sensors/actuators integration, alarms, interlocks, traceability and data collection for KPI tracking;
• Perform post-fabrication assessments to validate the quality and reproducibility of the assembly; drive root-cause analysis and corrective actions;
• Troubleshoot equipment and automation issues (mechanical/electrical/control) with engineering, maintenance and production teams and implement countermeasures;
• Lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives (Lean/Kaizen/Six Sigma) to optimize OEE, cycle time, yield and reduce waste;
• Develop, implement and validate machine modifications and upgrades to improve process capability, productivity and safety (including basic functional safety concepts);
• Manage technical and cross-functional projects from concept to completion, ensuring scope, timing and budget targets are met;
• Document automation and engineering changes: electrical/controls documentation, change control, test protocols, ROI analyses and improvement results.

Requirements

The Automation Process Engineer (PLC) should have experience in industrializing automated manufacturing processes, ideally within battery manufacturing or other high-volume/precision assembly environments.

Specifically, we will assess expertise in the following aspects:

• Degree in Industrial Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or similar;
• Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing/process engineering roles with a strong automation/controls component;
• Hands-on PLC programming, troubleshooting and commissioning experience (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Beckhoff TwinCAT or similar);
• Experience with HMI/SCADA configuration and industrial communication networks (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA);
• Ability to integrate sensors/actuators (vision, torque/force, pneumatics, motion) and define control logic, interlocks and alarm strategy;
• Strong understanding of structured problem-solving and data-driven process control (KPI/OEE, SPC basics);
• Proven experience in continuous improvement roles within a manufacturing environment;
• Project management skills; ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously with internal teams and external integrators;
• Knowledge of Lean tools (5S, VSM, SMED, TPM, etc.) and/or Six Sigma methodologies;
• Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills;
• Applicants should be fluent in English. Spanish or any other European language will be a plus.

Nice to have: experience in Li-ion battery cell assembly processes, familiarity with CAD, and exposure to functional safety standards and industrial robotics.