Automation & Controls Engineering Project Manager

Location: Muscle Shoals, AL
Travel: ~10-15%

A growing industrial automation and systems integration company is seeking a Project Manager with a strong controls engineering foundation to lead complex automation projects from kickoff through commissioning.

This is not a "paper PM" role. The ideal candidate understands PLC-based automation systems, electrical integration, and industrial equipment
, and can confidently interface with both engineers and customers. While this role is primarily focused on project leadership and client management
, the ability to step into technical discussions—and occasionally support engineering efforts—is critical.

Project Leadership (Primary Focus)

Lead full lifecycle automation projects from scope definition through delivery and commissioning

Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and resource plans

Drive accountability across engineering, build, and integration teams

Proactively identify risks, resolve issues, and keep projects on track

Customer Interface

Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle

Lead project meetings, status updates, and milestone reviews

Manage expectations, communicate changes, and ensure overall client satisfaction

Translate technical details into clear, actionable updates for non-technical stakeholders

Technical Coordination (Controls-Focused)

Work closely with Controls Engineers on PLC/HMI development, system architecture, and integration

Understand system design well enough to challenge decisions, identify gaps, and keep projects aligned

Support troubleshooting efforts during integration and commissioning phases

Step into technical conversations when needed - this role requires real engineering credibility

Execution & Delivery

Coordinate cross-functional teams including controls, electrical, and mechanical engineering

Oversee FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and SAT (Site Acceptance Testing) processes

Ensure systems are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with customer requirements

Drive post-project reviews and continuous improvement efforts

Process & Performance Management

Track KPIs including project timelines, budget adherence, and engineering hours

Improve project workflows, communication cadence, and execution consistency

Implement best practices for project tracking, reporting, and documentation

Experience

5+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or systems integration

2+ years in a project management or project lead capacity

Proven track record managing complex, multi-disciplinary automation projects

Technical Background (Critical)

Working knowledge of PLC/HMI systems (Rockwell, Siemens, or similar)

Strong understanding of industrial control systems, panels, I/O, VFDs, and field devices

Ability to read electrical schematics and understand system architecture

Comfortable participating in technical discussions with engineering teams

Leadership & Communication

Strong project ownership mentality—drives results without constant oversight

Ability to manage competing priorities and fast-moving project timelines

Confident leading meetings, resolving conflict, and making decisions

Tools & Methodologies

Experience with project management tools (MS Project or similar)

Familiarity with budgeting, scheduling, and resource planning best practices

Not a purely administrative or coordinator role

Not a sales or business development position

Not a deeply hands-on programming role (but must understand it)

Not suitable for candidates without real controls/automation exposure

Mix of office, shop floor, and customer site environments

Regular interaction with engineering teams and customers

Travel required for key project phases, including commissioning

Base salary (depending on experience)

401(k) with company match

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Flexible work environment

High-impact position with full project ownership and customer visibility

Blend of technical and leadership responsibilities

Opportunity to work on complex, custom automation systems (not repetitive production work)

Clear path toward senior project leadership or operations management