Principal Automation Engineer at Cardinal Health in Tijuana, Mexico

About Cardinal Health

Cardinal Health is a global leader in healthcare services, specializing in pharmaceutical and medical product manufacturing, supply chain solutions, and distribution. With operations spanning multiple countries, Cardinal Health drives innovation in medical device production and automation to ensure reliable, high-quality healthcare delivery. Our Tijuana facility in Mexico represents a hub for advanced manufacturing, where cutting-edge automation enhances efficiency and safety in producing life-saving medical products. As an Equal Opportunity employer, we champion diversity, inclusion, and support for veterans, people with disabilities, back-to-work candidates, and those without college degrees.

Role Overview

The Principal Automation Engineer at Cardinal Health in Tijuana plays a pivotal role in revolutionizing manufacturing processes through advanced automation technologies. This full-time position demands expertise in robotics, PLC programming, and cobots to optimize assembly lines, ensure quality control, and drive continuous improvement. Reporting to engineering leadership, you'll spearhead projects from conception to industrialization, minimizing scrap, enhancing productivity, and complying with ISO and FDA standards. Ideal for seasoned engineers passionate about healthcare innovation in Mexico's dynamic manufacturing sector.

Key Responsibilities

In this senior role, you'll tackle complex automation challenges with minimal supervision:

• Design and integrate advanced industrial robotics, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems for high-performance assembly lines.
• Program PLCs, HMIs, and vision systems to enable precise automated quality control.
• Deploy collaborative robots (cobots) to support operators in dangerous or repetitive tasks, prioritizing worker safety and well-being.
• Build IoT sensor networks for real-time machine-to-cloud data monitoring and analytics.
• Generate capital requisitions, validate equipment, and coordinate multifunctional teams for product transfers, cost reductions, and design changes.
• Analyze critical paths, solve quality and productivity issues using root cause analysis, and document processes per ISO/FDA requirements.
• Plan OPEX projects, design technical training programs, and minimize scrap sources.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as Principal Automation Engineer, candidates must meet these rigorous standards:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electromechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• More than 4 years of hands-on experience implementing automation in manufacturing equipment.
• Advanced English proficiency for global collaboration.
• Certifications in Six Sigma/Lean Manufacturing and Project Management (e.g., PMP).
• Proven supervisory skills, project administration, and availability to travel.

Core Competencies

• Expertise in hardware, sensors, actuators, and mechatronic components.
• Strong problem-solving, leadership, and results-oriented mindset.
• Proactivity, creativity, strategic agility, and effective communication.
• Autonomous work style with focus on subordinate development and performance measurement.

Physical Demands

This role involves prolonged sitting, walking, standing, arm movements, climbing stairs, and requires good vision in a manufacturing environment. Safety protocols are strictly enforced to prevent accidents and environmental incidents.

Benefits & Perks

Cardinal Health offers a premium compensation package tailored to Tijuana's healthcare market:

• Estimated salary range of 650,000 - 950,000 MXN annually, reflecting senior expertise.
• Comprehensive health benefits, professional development, and certification support.
• Inclusive culture celebrating diverse backgrounds, thoughts, and experiences.
• Opportunities for veterans, disabled individuals, and career returners.
• Modern facilities with emphasis on safety, training, and work-life balance.

Career Growth

At Cardinal Health, this Principal role is a launchpad for leadership in global healthcare automation. Advance to senior engineering management, innovation leads, or cross-functional director positions. Leverage Six Sigma/Lean certifications and project experience to influence supply chain transformations. Our commitment to continuous improvement and employee development ensures long-term career progression in Mexico and beyond.

Why Join Us

Join Cardinal Health in Tijuana to pioneer automation that impacts patient care worldwide. Work on meaningful projects integrating cobots, AI vision, and Industry 4.0 technologies in a collaborative, inclusive environment. Benefit from Baja California's strategic location, competitive pay, and a company that values your authentic self. Contribute to cost savings, quality excellence, and safer manufacturing—apply now to shape the future of healthcare.

Role FAQs

What experience is required for this Principal Automation Engineer role?

Over 4 years in manufacturing automation, plus engineering degree and certifications in Six Sigma/Lean and project management.

Is travel required?

Yes, availability for travel is essential for project coordination and implementations.

What is the work environment like?

A dynamic manufacturing setting in Tijuana with physical demands including standing, walking, and stair climbing, under strict safety guidelines.

How does Cardinal Health support diversity?

We are an Equal Opportunity employer encouraging applications from diverse groups, including veterans and people with disabilities.

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