<p>Controls & Robotics Engineering Operations Manager will lead the strategic direction, development, and execution of automation and controls initiatives across five operational centers. This role is responsible for overseeing a high-performing team of Professional Maintenance Specialists and skilled trades personnel, driving innovation in programmable logic control (PLC), robotics integration, and automation systems. The Manager will serve as a key technical and leadership resource, ensuring optimal performance, scalability, and reliability of robotic and control systems, including ABB, Kuka, Fanuc, Siemens, and other advanced platforms.</p> <p>This position plays a critical role in shaping the future of manufacturing automation, enhancing throughput, and enabling continuous improvement through data-driven decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and talent development.</p> <p>Specific Responsibilities:</p> <p>Strategic Leadership & Team Development</p> <ul> <li>Lead, mentor, and grow a team of Controls and Robotics specialists, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning. </li><li>Develop and execute a long-term roadmap for automation and controls capability across multiple sites. </li><li>Champion workforce development initiatives to elevate technical competencies in PLCs, robotics, and automation systems. </li></ul> <p>Operational Excellence & Technical Oversight</p> <ul> <li>Provide expert guidance in diagnosing and resolving complex controls and robotics issues across five manufacturing centers. </li><li>Establish and enforce standardized operating procedures for robotic and PLCs, HMIs, and Robotics (Fanuc/Comau) systems to minimize downtime and optimize performance. </li><li>Lead root cause analysis and corrective action planning for automation-related failures and inefficiencies. </li><li>Review, verify and diagnose design errors, omissions, and other deficiencies with controls logic and/or robotics logic provided by our suppliers and proactively recommend revisions and/or improvements. </li><li>Understanding of Sensors, Cameras, Vision Systems, Sorters, VFDs, End Effectors, Robots and related controls for automated systems. </li></ul> <p>Systems Integration & Innovation</p> <ul> <li>Oversee the design, programming, and integration of advanced control systems including Siemens, Rockwell, and Allen Bradley platforms. </li><li>Drive continuous improvement through software enhancements, logic optimization, and offline/online programming methodologies. </li><li>Collaborate with engineering, IT, and production teams to implement scalable automation solutions aligned with business goals. </li><li>Use thorough understanding of control systems in terms of electrical, motion, vision, pneumatic & hydraulic controls. </li></ul> <p>Governance & Documentation</p> <ul> <li>Ensure comprehensive documentation of system changes, revision histories, and lessons learned. </li><li>Develop and maintain training programs for associates and maintenance personnel on robotic systems and automation protocols. </li></ul> <p>Basic Qualifications</p> <ul> <li>Bachelor's degree in engineering, Automation, or related field </li><li>Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in manufacturing automation, with a focus on PLCs and robotics </li><li>Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional technical teams </li><li>Expertise in robotic programming and troubleshooting (Fanuc, ABB, Kuka) </li><li>Strong understanding of Body-in-White processes and robotic welding applications </li><li>Proficiency in RS Logix, PLC-5, Allen Bradley Drive Systems </li></ul> <p>Preferred Qualifications:</p> <ul> <li>Advanced or Technical Degree (BSME or BSEE) </li><li>Knowledge of welding processes (resistance spot welding) </li><li>Experience with Control Net Networks, Device Net Networks, ABB </li><li>Proficiency with Microsoft application software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) </li></ul>