Automation Lead - Manufacturing Assembly Process

Overview

Jabil (NYSE: JBL) is expanding and seeks a Regional Automation Lead – Manufacturing Assembly Process to support new and existing manufacturing sites across the US region. The role is based in Salisbury, NC and requires up to 50% domestic travel.

You will lead the automation strategy and execution for manufacturing assembly and test processes, guiding sites from manual to fully automated systems. Your work will improve cost, quality, throughput, FPY, and scalability through ROI-driven automation solutions deployed across the US region.

• Define and drive the automation roadmap for manufacturing assembly and test processes, aligned with business objectives and regional manufacturing strategies.
• Develop and deploy manual → semi-automatic → fully automatic assembly and test strategies, focusing on scalability, flexibility, and cost effectiveness.
• Lead ROI‑driven automation projects, including feasibility studies, business cases, and risk assessments.
• Design and implement automated assembly lines, including screw driving and torque‑controlled automation, robotic part handling, tray and pallet‑based material flow systems, vision‑guided assembly and inspection, and line balancing through automation.
• Develop changeover‑friendly tooling and automation concepts to support high‑mix, low‑ to mid‑volume manufacturing environments.
• Lead the deployment of automated test stations to improve First Pass Yield (FPY), data capture, and process control.
• Collaborate with Controls and IT teams on controls architecture, software solutions, and manufacturing data integration (PLC, HMI, MES, traceability).
• Manage cross‑functional teams (manufacturing, quality, controls, IT, suppliers) to deliver automation projects on time and within budget.
• Establish standardized automation best practices, documentation, and training across regional sites.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to automation engineers and site teams.
• Stay current on emerging assembly automation, robotics, vision, and digital manufacturing technologies and evaluate applicability across Jabil.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related technical discipline required.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma certification preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing automation, with significant focus on assembly and test processes.
• 5+ years in a technical leadership or regional role supporting multi‑site manufacturing operations.
• Proven experience implementing automated assembly lines, robotic systems, vision systems for assembly guidance and inspection, and automated test systems with data capture.
• Strong background in ROI justification, project execution, and vendor management for automation equipment and system integrators.
• Strong understanding of automation line design, line balancing, and changeover‑friendly concepts.
• Expertise in controls systems, including PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, and software integration.
• Experience working with robotic platforms, motion systems, torque tools, and vision systems.
• Solid knowledge of manufacturing data integration, test data, and traceability systems.
• Excellent project management, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders across engineering, manufacturing, and leadership levels.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% within the US.

• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Insurance with HRA and HSA options.
• 401(k) Match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Paid Time Off.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance.
• Commuter Benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Pet Insurance.
• Adoption Assistance.
• Annual Merit Increases.
• Community Volunteer Opportunities.

Jabil, including its subsidiaries, is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.