Ultimate Staffing ยท 2 hours ago
Automation Department Manager
Ultimate Staffing is hiring an Automation Department Manager who can lead the design, integration and continuous improvement of automated systems supporting high volume manufacturing operations. The role oversees a team of automation engineers and technicians to develop innovative solutions that optimize production efficiency and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
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
Define and execute company's 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
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
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
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
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
Develop and manage departmental budgets, equipment investments, and cost forecasts
Measure performance against KPIs such as project delivery, system uptime, cost savings, and ROI
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Automation, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering
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
Preferred
Master's degree in Automation, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering
Certified Automation Professional (ISA CAP)
Lean Six Sigma or PMP certification