Digital Technologies Technical Specialist

MUST RESIDE IN ILLINOIS

* Field-based work environment with work conducted from a home office when not onsite at client facilities

* Frequent travel throughout the state to support client engagements and onsite activities

* Work authorization required. IMEC is unable to sponsor visas for this role.

The Digital Technologies Technical Specialist works directly with manufacturers to improve operational performance through the strategic application of digital and smart manufacturing technologies. This role helps manufacturers assess operational and technology gaps, optimize the use of smart manufacturing technologies, and develop practical roadmaps for adopting digital solutions across a broad range of manufacturing applications. The Specialist provides consultation on digital manufacturing, Industrial IoT (IIoT), automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and ERP/MRP systems, helping manufacturers integrate digital technologies into their operations to improve productivity, operational visibility, and data-driven decision-making.

Working closely with IMEC’s field team through collaboration, mentoring, and job shadowing, this role empowers manufacturers to advance their digital maturity and adopt Industry 4.0 solutions, while providing opportunities to mentor colleagues and share technical expertise.

Responsibilities include:

• Provide direct consultation to manufacturers on digital transformation strategies, smart manufacturing technologies, Industrial IoT, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and data analytics to improve operational performance, equipment utilization, and real-time visibility into manufacturing operations.
• Prepare proposals, deliver sales presentations, and support business development efforts that expand the adoption of digital technologies among Illinois manufacturers.
• Manage project engagements, which may include:
  • Conducting digital manufacturing readiness assessments to evaluate current technology infrastructure, operational processes, and digital maturity.
  • Identifying operational and technology gaps and recommending opportunities for digital transformation and smart manufacturing adoption.
  • Helping manufacturers optimize the use of smart manufacturing technologies across production operations, machine connectivity, and data collection systems.
  • Developing practical roadmaps for implementing digital technologies such as Industrial IoT, machine monitoring systems, data analytics platforms, and automation solutions.
  • Supporting manufacturers in evaluating and implementing technologies such as ERP/MRP systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), machine connectivity platforms, and digital dashboards.
  • Integrating digital technologies that enable connected factory environments, improved production visibility, and data-driven operational decision-making.
  • Advising manufacturers on emerging digital manufacturing technologies and their practical application in small and mid-sized manufacturing environments.
  • Leading hands-on pilot implementations and technology adoption projects, helping manufacturers solve real-world operational challenges while ensuring measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Develop and manage Third Party Resources including digital technology providers, automation specialists, robotics vendors, and other technology partners that support client project engagements.
• Participate in IMEC’s solution development and process improvement teams to strengthen and expand and strengthen digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 service offerings for Illinois manufacturers.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, manufacturing engineering, automation engineering, industrial engineering, or digital manufacturing technologies.
• Experience implementing or supporting digital manufacturing technologies such as Industrial IoT, machine monitoring, MES, ERP/MRP systems, robotics, or…