Computer Vision and Automation Specialist

Job Summary

We are seeking a driven and innovative Computer Vision & Automation Specialist to join our team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a technology-focused professional who enjoys using automation, computer vision, and data-driven solutions to solve real-world manufacturing challenges and improve safety, quality, and operational efficiency. As a key partner to Engineering and Production teams, you will design, develop, and continuously improve automated manufacturing processes with a strong focus on Computer Vision applications, Python-based solutions, and Manufacturing Digital Transformation (DX) initiatives. You will also apply foundational knowledge of PLC controls to support the effective integration of computer vision and automation technologies with manufacturing equipment and processes.

If you enjoy combining technology, programming, automation, and manufacturing to develop practical solutions, eliminate inefficiencies, and advance smart manufacturing, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career while making a direct impact on the future of manufacturing operations.

Internal Qualifications

• You must have at least six months of experience in your current role; if promoted into your role must have at least 12 months of experience.
• A positive attendance record is essential; you should not be on a final attendance warning.
• A solid safety and quality record is required.
• No disciplinary actions in the past six months

Core Responsibilities

Computer Vision & AI Systems Development

• Lead the development and deployment of computer vision inspection systems for manufacturing and production environments.
• Design, build, and maintain end-to-end machine vision pipelines using Python and modern ML/CV frameworks such as YOLO, Florence-2, SAM, OpenCV, and PyTorch.
• Own the full model lifecycle, including data collection, dataset creation, annotation, model training, validation, and performance optimization.
• Develop custom OCR and defect-detection solutions capable of operating at production-line speed across multi-camera inspection systems.

Manufacturing Automation & System Integration

• Integrate vision systems with plant automation infrastructure, including PLC communications and manufacturing control systems.
• Design and implement error-proofing (poka-yoke) solutions utilizing automation, sensing, and machine vision technologies to prevent defects and improve product quality.
• Support equipment and automation integration by applying knowledge of PLC controls, including Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms, tag structures, and ladder logic.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and production teams to identify inspection opportunities and implement scalable technical solutions.

Deployment, Reliability & Operational Support

• Deploy and maintain applications within containerized environments using Docker and version control systems such as Git.
• Implement real-time monitoring, alerting, and reporting systems to ensure inspection reliability, uptime, and responsive issue resolution.
• Troubleshoot and continuously improve system accuracy, speed, robustness, and performance in production environments.
• Build and maintain operator-facing dashboards and user interfaces to improve visibility, usability, and decision-making.

Data Analysis, Model Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Utilize operational and model performance metrics to improve detection accuracy, precision, recall, throughput, and system effectiveness.
• Establish best practices for computer vision deployment, data management, and model maintenance in industrial environments.
• Research and evaluate emerging AI, machine vision, robotics, and digital transformation technologies to identify opportunities for innovation.

Technical Leadership, Documentation & Cross-Functional Support

• Serve as a technical resource for advanced vision, OCR, and AI-driven inspection initiatives.
• Document system architecture, development methods, testing results, and performance metrics to support scalability and knowledge sharing.
• Support team success by sharing technical expertise, assisting engineers and staff, and contributing to cross-functional improvement initiatives.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with company standards, customer requirements, and applicable regulations while promoting safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Support continuous improvement activities that strengthen manufacturing quality and process performance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills
• Proficiency in Python programming
• Experience developing software, automation, computer vision, robotics, machine learning solutions or other related STEM activities
• Knowledge of computer vision and image processing concepts
• Strong communication, collaboration, and project execution skills
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in automation or advanced manufacturing
• Strong experience with Computer Vision, AI-based vision solutions, and image processing applications
• Proficiency in Python programming for automation, data analysis, vision system development, and manufacturing digital transformation projects
• Experience developing and implementing Manufacturing DX solutions to improve performance, traceability, and decision-making
• Basic understanding of PLC controls, including Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation, tag structures, and ladder logic
• Familiarity with industrial connectivity tools such as Kepware
• Experience with software development tools such as Visual Studio Code, Github Copilot, and GitLab
• Knowledge of Neural Networks and machine learning concepts related to industrial vision applicationsExperience with Apriso integration or similar manufacturing software platforms

Education Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation, or a related technical field. Equivalent combinations of education and demonstrated experience in automation, computer vision, software development, or manufacturing technology will be considered.

In lieu of a degree, we consider equivalent, job-related experience, military service, professional certifications, and demonstrated skills. Equivalency determinations are made based on the essential functions of the role.

Language Requirements

Must be able to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in English.

Work Environment

The physical demands and work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the team member must have the ability to work in extreme hot or cold conditions, stand for the duration of the shift, uses hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; ascend stairs; balance; stoop, kneel or crouch; talk and hear. In addition, the team member must occasionally lift up to (“20”, “50”, etc.) lbs. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in the description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents within the classification. This description is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and working conditions required of employees assigned to this job/classification. This job is intended to include the current essential functions of the job. Management reserves the right to add or modify the duties and responsibilities and to designate other functions as essential at any time.