Area Automation Manager - Pacific Northwest

Area Automation Manager

The Area Automation Manager plays a critical role in overseeing and managing the automation systems and technologies within the Pacific Northwest. This role typically involves a combination of technical expertise, management skills, and strategic planning to ensure the effective operation and optimization of automated processes. This role will work with WM’s Automation Group to help lead automation activities for all lines of businesses within the company and ensure the automation/controls engineering activities meet the company’s objectives.

They will be responsible for managing automation systems and assist control system troubleshooting, process modifications, system designs, specifications, and commissioning. This person will be the local liaison between the Automation Group and site contacts, being the first point of contact for any automation issues that may arise. The role includes developing and improving new and existing equipment used in landfills, wastewater treatment plants, bio-gas extraction systems, renewable energy plants, recycling technology, telematics, fleet and organics processing.

Individuals must be able to work in a fast paced environment and resolve issues on their own. Industrial control wiring, industrial equipment, PLC/HMI programming, and process design knowledge is necessary.

This position will be responsible to provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) level day-to-day support of all automated and electro-mechanical process control systems used in landfills, wastewater, bio-gas extraction, renewable energy, recycling technology, collections, fleet, telematics and organics processing. The position will be integral in providing process optimization expertise and implementation of corporate site automation standard procedures at the Area level. Lead and coordinate efforts to secure all automation technologies used in waste processing and logistics by overseeing policy compliance, ensuring secure integration of new systems, managing incident responses, and promoting cybersecurity awareness and training among field personnel.

Oversee the lifecycle management of all operational technology (OT) assets, including SCADA and automation equipment, ensuring accurate inventory, maintenance planning, system reliability, and alignment with cybersecurity and compliance standards across all facilities in the area. Automation standard procedures at the Area level. Implement a roadmap for OT maturity, including technology assessments, gap analysis, and improvement plans. Drive the adoption of emerging OT technologies to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.

This position will be responsible to provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) level day-to-day support of all automated and electro-mechanical process control systems used in landfills, wastewater, bio-gas extraction, renewable energy, recycling technology, collections, fleet, telematics and organics processing. Collaborate with IT and OT teams to ensure alignment and effective integration of systems. Develop and execute a comprehensive automation strategy aligned with business objectives.

This position will support the highly complex automated systems and equipment installed in new and existing facilities. Must provide automation site support interface with operations personnel, compliance, information systems, engineering, and maintenance. Key to this is the thorough documentation of all data collected and stored in shared work environments. Must exhibit strong customer communication skills and have technical knowledge of automated and electromechanical process control systems and equipment.

Training of the local operators and managers on the proper operation of their respective equipment and SCADA system(s) Oversee the selection, onboarding, and management of external contractors supporting automation initiatives. Ensure contractors align with project goals, deliver quality work, and adhere to company standards and timelines. Monitor contractor performance, provide feedback, and address any performance issues. Collaborate closely with operations teams to identify automation opportunities, assess…