Automation Technical Specialist
Top Benefits
About the role
The world isn’t standing still, and neither is ATS Life Sciences
-
We don’t follow the trends. We set them!
Are you interested in being part of a team that makes a difference? Join our growing ATS Life Sciences Systems team a division of ATS Corporation, a publicly traded global enterprise with a proud history, we are helping advance the future with our factory-wide automation solutions. Within Life Sciences Systems, what we do matters – we custom design, build and service critical automated solutions for medical device and pharmaceutical companies. We are dedicated to assisting our customers in improving the quality of life for people around the world. When there is no room for error, and product failure is not an option, leading life sciences companies trust us to resolve their production challenges.
Job Description SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: Mechanical Design and Engineering
- Lead the mechanical design of custom automation equipment, tooling, and fixtures
- Develop 3D models, detailed drawings, and BOMs using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)
- Ensure designs meet functional, safety, and regulatory requirements
- Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to ensure seamless system integration.
- Conduct design reviews and support prototype development and testing
- Review electrical requirements with respect to input and output devices with electrical designers.
- Review machine operations and machine sequences with programmers
- Assist the fabricators, machinists, toolmakers and electricians in the debug, integration resolving problems and completion of systems
- Determine tools, fixtures and equipment to be used in fabrication and assembly of mechanical components and complete assemblies
Value Engineering and Cost Optimization
- Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through design simplification, material selection, and process improvements
- Evaluate supplier components and alternatives to reduce cost and improve reliability.
- Support make-vs-buy decisions with technical and economic analysis
- Drive standardization of components and design practices across projects
Technical Support and Troubleshooting
- Serve as a subject matter expert for diagnosing and resolving complex mechanical and system-level issues
- Provide on-site and remote technical support during installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up
- Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and service teams to resolve field issues and implement corrective actions
- Document root cause analyses and develop preventive measures
- Participate in project planning, design reviews, and risk assessments
- Support project managers with technical input, timelines, and resource planning
- Coordinate with suppliers and external partners for design validation and component sourcing
- Propose and lead initiatives to improve system performance, reliability, and maintainability
General
- Periodically oversees co-op students and Designers on various projects
- Adhere to all ISO procedures pertaining to the job responsibilities
- Ensure that all business activities are performed with the highest ethical standards and in compliance with the ATS Code of Business Conduct
- Work in compliance with divisional health, safety and environmental procedures
- Refrain from removing or altering safety devices or guarding unless hazardous energies are controlled through lockout-tagout methods
- Report any unsafe conditions or unsafe acts
- Report defect in any equipment or protective device
- Ensure that the required protective equipment is used for the assigned tasks
- Attend all required health, safety and environmental training
- Report any accidents/incidents to supervisor
- Assist in investigating accidents/incidents
- Refrain from engaging in any prank, contest, feat of strength, unnecessary running or rough and boisterous conduct
Qualifications Education: Education
- A post-secondary diploma or degree in mechanical design, mechanical engineering or equivalent
Experience
- 5+ years of experience in automation, mechanical design, or technical support roles
- Experience with robotics, motion systems, pneumatics, and industrial automation components
- Familiarity with PLCs, sensors, and control systems integration
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Skills
- Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, GD&T, and materials
- Proven experience in value engineering and cost reduction initiatives
- Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills
If you're excited about this role, but do not meet all the qualifications listed above, you are still encouraged to apply Why YOU should join our ATS Life Sciences Systems team:
We value our PEOPLE
-
The foundation of a great company is having the best team which is why we continuously work to develop, engage, empower and energize our people. The best people want to work with the best team - the best teams are diverse and inclusive teams.
What we do MATTERS
-
our Life Sciences projects contribute to improving the lives of people around the world! ATS has made a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030!
INNOVATION and PROBLEM SOLVING is at our core - Our pursuit of continuous improvement in everything we do. Our focus is on building diverse teams, stimulating innovation by challenging conventional thinking, encouraging fresh ideas and promoting creative problem-solving
We prioritize internal GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
-
ATS offers endless opportunities for professional growth and development – with a tuition reimbursement program, individual development programs and a commitment to promoting from within - there is space for you to grow your career at ATS!
We offer COMPETITIVE Total Rewards
-
Competitive starting salaries, overtime pay eligibility, paid vacation, Employee Incentive Bonus program, comprehensive health and dental benefits including Lifestyle Spending Account, 5% RRSP matching program and optional Employee Share Purchase Program
A place to BELONG: We celebrate our differences and ensure that all employees have equal opportunities for growth and development. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experiences is essential for our success and innovation.
ATS is in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA), 2005 and will, upon request, assist those who may require specific accommodations due to a personal disability. We would ask that those who require assistance to notify our offices as soon as possible if accommodation is necessary
About ATS Corporation
HELPING ADVANCE THE FUTURE
ATS Corporation is an industry-leading automation solutions provider to many of the world's most successful companies. ATS uses its extensive knowledge base and global capabilities in custom automation, repeat automation, automation products and value-added solutions including pre-automation and after-sales services, to address the sophisticated manufacturing automation systems and service needs of multinational customers in markets such as life sciences, transportation, food & beverage, consumer products, and energy. Founded in 1978, ATS employs over 7,500+ people at more than 65+ manufacturing facilities and over 85+ offices in North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania. The Company's common shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") and the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol ATS. Visit the Company's website at www.atsautomation.com.
Automation Technical Specialist
Top Benefits
About the role
The world isn’t standing still, and neither is ATS Life Sciences
-
We don’t follow the trends. We set them!
Are you interested in being part of a team that makes a difference? Join our growing ATS Life Sciences Systems team a division of ATS Corporation, a publicly traded global enterprise with a proud history, we are helping advance the future with our factory-wide automation solutions. Within Life Sciences Systems, what we do matters – we custom design, build and service critical automated solutions for medical device and pharmaceutical companies. We are dedicated to assisting our customers in improving the quality of life for people around the world. When there is no room for error, and product failure is not an option, leading life sciences companies trust us to resolve their production challenges.
Job Description SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: Mechanical Design and Engineering
- Lead the mechanical design of custom automation equipment, tooling, and fixtures
- Develop 3D models, detailed drawings, and BOMs using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)
- Ensure designs meet functional, safety, and regulatory requirements
- Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to ensure seamless system integration.
- Conduct design reviews and support prototype development and testing
- Review electrical requirements with respect to input and output devices with electrical designers.
- Review machine operations and machine sequences with programmers
- Assist the fabricators, machinists, toolmakers and electricians in the debug, integration resolving problems and completion of systems
- Determine tools, fixtures and equipment to be used in fabrication and assembly of mechanical components and complete assemblies
Value Engineering and Cost Optimization
- Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through design simplification, material selection, and process improvements
- Evaluate supplier components and alternatives to reduce cost and improve reliability.
- Support make-vs-buy decisions with technical and economic analysis
- Drive standardization of components and design practices across projects
Technical Support and Troubleshooting
- Serve as a subject matter expert for diagnosing and resolving complex mechanical and system-level issues
- Provide on-site and remote technical support during installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up
- Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and service teams to resolve field issues and implement corrective actions
- Document root cause analyses and develop preventive measures
- Participate in project planning, design reviews, and risk assessments
- Support project managers with technical input, timelines, and resource planning
- Coordinate with suppliers and external partners for design validation and component sourcing
- Propose and lead initiatives to improve system performance, reliability, and maintainability
General
- Periodically oversees co-op students and Designers on various projects
- Adhere to all ISO procedures pertaining to the job responsibilities
- Ensure that all business activities are performed with the highest ethical standards and in compliance with the ATS Code of Business Conduct
- Work in compliance with divisional health, safety and environmental procedures
- Refrain from removing or altering safety devices or guarding unless hazardous energies are controlled through lockout-tagout methods
- Report any unsafe conditions or unsafe acts
- Report defect in any equipment or protective device
- Ensure that the required protective equipment is used for the assigned tasks
- Attend all required health, safety and environmental training
- Report any accidents/incidents to supervisor
- Assist in investigating accidents/incidents
- Refrain from engaging in any prank, contest, feat of strength, unnecessary running or rough and boisterous conduct
Qualifications Education: Education
- A post-secondary diploma or degree in mechanical design, mechanical engineering or equivalent
Experience
- 5+ years of experience in automation, mechanical design, or technical support roles
- Experience with robotics, motion systems, pneumatics, and industrial automation components
- Familiarity with PLCs, sensors, and control systems integration
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Skills
- Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, GD&T, and materials
- Proven experience in value engineering and cost reduction initiatives
- Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills
If you're excited about this role, but do not meet all the qualifications listed above, you are still encouraged to apply Why YOU should join our ATS Life Sciences Systems team:
We value our PEOPLE
-
The foundation of a great company is having the best team which is why we continuously work to develop, engage, empower and energize our people. The best people want to work with the best team - the best teams are diverse and inclusive teams.
What we do MATTERS
-
our Life Sciences projects contribute to improving the lives of people around the world! ATS has made a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030!
INNOVATION and PROBLEM SOLVING is at our core - Our pursuit of continuous improvement in everything we do. Our focus is on building diverse teams, stimulating innovation by challenging conventional thinking, encouraging fresh ideas and promoting creative problem-solving
We prioritize internal GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
-
ATS offers endless opportunities for professional growth and development – with a tuition reimbursement program, individual development programs and a commitment to promoting from within - there is space for you to grow your career at ATS!
We offer COMPETITIVE Total Rewards
-
Competitive starting salaries, overtime pay eligibility, paid vacation, Employee Incentive Bonus program, comprehensive health and dental benefits including Lifestyle Spending Account, 5% RRSP matching program and optional Employee Share Purchase Program
A place to BELONG: We celebrate our differences and ensure that all employees have equal opportunities for growth and development. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experiences is essential for our success and innovation.
ATS is in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA), 2005 and will, upon request, assist those who may require specific accommodations due to a personal disability. We would ask that those who require assistance to notify our offices as soon as possible if accommodation is necessary
About ATS Corporation
HELPING ADVANCE THE FUTURE
ATS Corporation is an industry-leading automation solutions provider to many of the world's most successful companies. ATS uses its extensive knowledge base and global capabilities in custom automation, repeat automation, automation products and value-added solutions including pre-automation and after-sales services, to address the sophisticated manufacturing automation systems and service needs of multinational customers in markets such as life sciences, transportation, food & beverage, consumer products, and energy. Founded in 1978, ATS employs over 7,500+ people at more than 65+ manufacturing facilities and over 85+ offices in North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania. The Company's common shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") and the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol ATS. Visit the Company's website at www.atsautomation.com.