Automation Engineering Manager

Location: Garner

This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing automation technologies, manufacturing processes, and production systems to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. The role leads automation and manufacturing improvement initiatives, supports new product introductions, drives continuous improvement efforts, and manages engineering personnel while advancing manufacturing technologies.

Duties:
Including but not limited to:

• Analyze, design, and implement manufacturing concepts and production cells using lean principles and simulation tools to optimize space utilization, equipment performance, material flow, and standardized work.
• Support current production operations and new product introductions related to manufacturing processes.
• Drive process improvements to reduce throughput time and improve product quality.
• Research and implement new manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
• Lead and support cost reduction efforts through product, material, and process improvements.
• Assist with facility layout planning and workflow optimization.
• Identify root causes of manufacturing process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Evaluate automation vendors and subcontractors to ensure compliance with manufacturing and quality requirements.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement focused on cost, quality, safety, and employee development.
• Develop technology support strategies.
• Prepare labor, tooling, and equipment quotations.
• Participate in engineering design reviews.
• Review and approve drawings, routings, specifications, and related documentation.
• Coordinate training for new processes and technologies.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for engineering team members.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide coaching as needed.
• Manage employee time-off requests and time approvals.
• Prioritize team activities and ensure projects are completed on schedule.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively prioritize work.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development skills.
• Experience with capital improvement projects and manufacturing process optimization.
• Project management experience preferred.
• Experience with production automation and robotics preferred.
• Experience with MRP systems preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD software, including Solid Works and PDM systems, preferred.
• Welding experience preferred.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications.
• Working knowledge of statistics, data analysis, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
• Ability to effectively work with vendors, customers, and cross-functional teams.
• Strong planning and organizational skills with the ability to support long-term business objectives.
• Additional Requirements:
• Participation in company-sponsored continuing education and professional development programs may be required.
• Travel is primarily local during normal business hours, with occasional overnight and out-of-area travel as needed.

Disclaimer: Please note that we are unable to provide job sponsor ships, including, but not limited to, visas, corp-to-corp arrangements (C2C), or any other form of sponsorship for employment. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.