Project Manager

Interstate Brick is widely recognized as one of the premier commercial brick manufacturers in the U.S. Established in 1891, Interstate Brick joined the Pacific Coast Building Products family in 1990. The company's products, used in residential and commercial construction, offer several distinguishing features that motivate architects and builders across the country to specify them.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Plant Manager, this position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing automation and process improvement projects across production areas. The role focuses on modernizing manufacturing systems, increasing efficiency, and reducing downtime through the implementation of automated technologies, controls integration, and continuous improvement initiatives. The project Manager works closely with maintenance and production teams to ensure successful project execution within cost and scheduled targets. The position requires strong leadership, technical expertise in industrial automation, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining alignment with plant strategic objectives and company safety standards. This position may include other duties as needed to facilitate daily plant production or to gain additional knowledge for growth; and is responsible for supporting and demonstrating the Core Values of Integrity, Safety, Respect, Customer Focus, Quality, Innovation and Financial Success. Performs other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: General

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Leads automation and modernization projects from concept through completion, ensuring alignment with operational goals.

• Develops project copes, budgets, timelines, and implementation plans.

• Collaborates with internal departments and external vendors for project design, integration, and commissioning.

• Identifies and implements process improvements that enhance equipment reliability, energy efficiency, and throughput.

• Manages contractors and automation specialists during installations or upgrades.

• Ensures compliance with all company safety and quality policies.

• Coordinates documentation for electrical, control, and instrumentation systems.

• Prepares capital project proposals, including technical justifications and ROI analyses.

• Provides training and technical guidance to maintenance and production personnel on automated systems.

• Tracks project progress using established KPIs and reports outcomes to management.

• Supports the development and execution of preventive maintenance programs for automated systems.

• Maintains effective communication across departments to ensure smooth project integration into daily operations.

• Performs other related duties as assigned to support plant operations or technical initiatives.

• Attends safety meetings and abides by all safety rules set forth by company and governmental regulatory agencies; ensures that hazardous conditions are reported and corrected.

• Predictable and Regular attendance is required.

QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must meet the following requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or project management within a manufacturing environment.
  proven experience managing automation projects, including robotics, PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.

• Strong knowledge of process control systems, instrumentation, and production line integration.

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and project management software (MS Project, AutoCAD familiarity preferred).

• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

• Must be an initiative-taking leader with firsthand experience in troubleshooting and system optimization.

• Must have a valid driver's license

• Occasional travel may be required for vendor coordination or equipment installation support.

• Predictable and Regular attendance is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing and entering data. Standing, walking, and sitting.

• Must be able to lift up-to 50 pounds intermittently.

• Must be able to use personal vehicle for company travel. Up-to 10% travel time required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Office environment with moderate noise.

• Plant environment with loud noise, moving machinery, dusty & dirty conditions.

• Outdoor weather conditions including extreme temperatures.

• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required in all plant areas.

This is a regular, full-time position with competitive compensation and full benefits including medical/dental insurance, disability benefits, life insurance, 401(k), profit sharing retirement plan, and wellness programs. We are an equal opportunity employer and promote a drug free workplace