Director of Automation Engineering

Job Summary The Director of Automation Engineering will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for driving automation initiatives across the organization. This role sets the strategic vision for automation, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering high-impact solutions that improve quality, efficiency, and scalability. The Director will oversee project selection, prioritization, and execution, focusing on high-ROI opportunities and the use of common technologies across multiple operational areas.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipDefine and implement an automation roadmap that supports objectives such as quality improvement, capacity expansion, ergonomic enhancements, and labor optimization.Identify and prioritize automation opportunities that deliver measurable value across the business.Team DevelopmentBuild, mentor, and develop a high-performing engineering team, fostering innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.Project OversightGuide automation projects from concept through deployment, ensuring timely, high-quality execution and smooth integration into production environments.Oversee project selection, budgeting, timelines, and deliverables to maintain alignment with strategic goals.Technology AdvancementChampion advanced automation technologies including collaborative robots, robotic palletizers, automated material handling systems, and other cutting-edge solutions.Evaluate emerging technologies and develop strategies for adoption across the organization.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with operations, manufacturing, product development, and engineering teams to integrate automation into existing processes and new product designs.Communicate plans, progress, and results to senior leadership and key stakeholders.ResponsibilitiesTechnical LeadershipArchitect and implement advanced automation systems, including robotics and material handling solutions, to improve productivity, quality, and scalability.Ensure seamless integration of automation technologies into existing operations with minimal disruption.Establish post-implementation review processes to evaluate system performance and drive continuous improvement.Implement risk mitigation strategies, redundancy planning, and compliance measures to ensure reliability and regulatory adherence.Team and Project ManagementLead, mentor, and grow the automation engineering team through structured training, development plans, and performance feedback.Oversee project governance including timelines, budgets, documentation, and validation.Provide comprehensive handover, training, and system documentation to internal teams prior to deployment.Standardize procurement and implementation processes through controlled procedures and templates.Cross-Functional LeadershipCollaborate with manufacturing engineering, operations, and leadership teams throughout the project lifecycle.Present clear and consistent updates on plans, status, and results to stakeholders.Work with product development teams to incorporate automation requirements and design-for-manufacturability considerations into new designs.Strategic PlanningDevelop and maintain an annual automation roadmap, including cost-benefit analysis, ROI projections, and replacement schedules.Balance short-term and long-term initiatives to optimize team efficiency and impact.Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain competitive advantage and foster innovation.Qualifications and SkillsProficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Lean or Six Sigma certification and expertise in process flow analysis.Knowledge of FDA, QSR, and ISO regulatory requirements.Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and SAP.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.Education and ExperienceBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field required.Minimum 10 years of automation engineering experience across diverse applications.At least 8 years of leadership experience managing engineering teams and complex automation projects.