Senior Project Manager – Machine Automation & Manufacturing Operations
Location: Elgin, IL
Salary: Up to $135,000 + Bonus
Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
We are seeking a Senior Project Manager with a strong background in manufacturing and machine automation to lead complex, high-impact projects within a highly engineered production environment.
This role is heavily focused on machine automation, production equipment, manufacturing operations, and process improvement — not IT infrastructure or software implementation projects. The company designs, builds, and supports much of its own automated manufacturing equipment in-house, making this an excellent fit for someone who has managed automation projects on the plant floor.
This is a hands-on operational leadership role where you’ll work closely with engineering, manufacturing, automation, and production teams to drive projects from concept through implementation and production launch.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead multiple concurrent projects tied to machine automation, manufacturing equipment, and production operations
- Manage full project lifecycles for automated machinery and manufacturing process improvements
- Partner closely with Engineering and Operations teams on in-house machine automation systems
- Drive automation-related initiatives involving production lines, equipment upgrades, tooling, and operational efficiency
- Oversee project schedules, budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful execution
- Coordinate cross-functional teams including Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Automation, Maintenance, and Supply Chain
- Support facility expansion and manufacturing capacity projects
- Identify production bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the manufacturing operation
- Provide leadership updates regarding automation project status, risks, and implementation timelines
What We’re Looking For
- 7+ years of Project Management experience within a manufacturing, industrial, or machine automation environment
- Strong experience managing projects involving:
- Machine automation
- Manufacturing equipment
- Automated production systems
- Robotics or controls-driven equipment
- Capital equipment or production machinery
- Experience working directly with plant operations, manufacturing engineering, or automation teams
- Background in companies that design/build/customize their own manufacturing equipment is highly preferred
- Proven ability to lead complex manufacturing projects in fast-paced production environments
- Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to drive projects cross-functionally
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field preferred
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
- Lead impactful machine automation projects in a growing manufacturing environment
- Work closely with engineering and production teams on highly customized automated systems
- High-visibility role with direct influence on manufacturing operations and production growth
- Collaborative, hands-on engineering culture
- Competitive compensation up to $135K + bonus + strong benefits package
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.