Automation Manager

Automation Manager - Fort Worth, TX (Alliance area)

Looking for an experienced Automation Department Manager who leads the design, integration, and continuous improvement of automated systems supporting company's high-volume manufacturing operations. This role oversees a team of automation engineers and technicians responsible for developing innovative solutions that optimize production efficiency, improve quality, and reduce operational costs. The manager drives the strategic roadmap for factory automation, ensuring all processes meet safety, regulatory, and quality standards while aligning with corporate manufacturing objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Hire, train, and develop automation engineers and technicians.
• Schedule, assign, and evaluate work performance.
• Conduct performance reviews and manage disciplinary actions in accordance with company policy.
• Promote a collaborative, safety-focused, and high-performance team culture.
• Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

• Define and execute company automation strategy to support lean manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
• Identify automation opportunities across production lines, warehousing, and assembly operations.
• Develop technology roadmaps aligned with corporate goals for quality, efficiency, and cost reduction.

Project and Systems Management

• Lead full lifecycle automation projects from concept and design through installation, commissioning, and optimization.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation to ensure on-time delivery within scope and cost targets.
• Oversee programming and integration of PLCs, robotics, and motion-control systems.
• Technical and Process Excellence
• Direct the design, testing, and validation of automation systems including PLC/HMI, SCADA, and robotics.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex system issues to ensure continuous production uptime.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to eliminate waste and improve process reliability.
• Monitor system performance metrics to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaboration and Vendor Management
• Partner with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure seamless automation integration.
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee external service providers.
• Evaluate and recommend automation technologies, equipment, and software solutions suitable for large- scale manufacturing.

Safety, Quality, and Compliance

• Ensure all automation systems comply with OSHA, ISO, and company safety standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and maintain documentation for audits and certifications.
• Promote a zero-incident culture and reinforce safe operating practices.

Budget and Performance Management

• Develop and manage departmental budgets, equipment investments, and cost forecasts.
• Measure performance against KPIs such as project delivery, system uptime, cost savings, and ROI.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Automation, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering (masters preferred).
• 5-7 years of automation experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• 3+ years of supervisory or managerial experience leading automation teams.
• Hands-on expertise with PLC/HMI programming, robotics, SCADA, and control systems integration.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell).
• Knowledge of industrial robotics, motion control, pneumatics, and vision systems.
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as Modbus, Profibus, and EtherNet/IP.
• Experience using CAD/CAE software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and data-driven process monitoring.
• Certifications (Preferred): Certified Automation Professional (ISA CAP) & Lean Six Sigma or PMP
• Performance Indicators (KPIS)
• On-time, within-budget delivery of automation projects.
• Reduction in manual processes and downtime.
• Increased equipment reliability and production throughput.
• Demonstrated ROI on automation investments.
• Full compliance with quality and safety standards.

Please send resume to ana@employeemagnets.com