Automation Engineer

Destinusgroup seeks a Senior Automation Engineer in Payerne to design and integrate automated systems for flight component manufacturing, bridging R&D and production.

This position sits at the crossroads of research and development and manufacturing, with the primary goal of transforming conceptual ideas into functional machinery for flight systems. The successful candidate will help revolutionize the defense industry by creating robust automation solutions for unmanned aerial vehicles and partnering with government agencies.

Responsibilities

• Create, assemble, and maintain automation systems for the production of rocket motors and pyrotechnic parts.
• Engineer machines and automated workflows from the initial concept phase through to full operational integration.
• Construct and validate prototypes, ensuring solutions are ready for mass production.
• Facilitate the transition of R&D automation setups into stable manufacturing processes.
• Program and deploy collaborative robots (cobots) within production lines.
• Collaborate closely with propulsion engineers, production staff, and safety experts.
• Keep technical records up to date for all machines, control systems, and automation protocols.
• Enhance production efficiency by implementing automation and digitalization strategies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automation, Mechatronics, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent vocational training.
• Three to five years of professional experience in automation engineering, preferably within manufacturing or R&D environments.
• Practical background in electrical tasks, including control cabinet assembly, wiring diagram interpretation, and safety compliance.
• Proven ability to design and build machines or automated setups from scratch through to commissioning.
• Strong skills in PLC programming using structured text and industrial control platforms like Codesys.
• Experience integrating automation hardware such as servo drives, pneumatic systems, sensors, and control units.
• Familiarity with cobot programming, specifically Universal Robots and Polyscope 5.
• Knowledge of machine safety regulations, including the CE machinery directive, SUVA requirements, and ATEX standards.
• Readiness to travel to various Destinus locations across Switzerland for up to 20% of working time.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with industrial robot arms from manufacturers like KUKA, Fanuc, or ABB.
• Understanding of mechanical design principles and proficiency with CAD software such as Siemens NX.

About the company

Destinusgroup operates in a fast-paced environment where the team values a hands-on, experimental approach to resolving ambiguity. The company is dedicated to advancing the defense sector through innovative UAV technologies and strong partnerships with government entities.

• Emphasis on a practical, experimental mindset to tackle complex challenges.
• Collaborative work within a dynamic and rapidly evolving team structure.