Director of Automation

Overview

On Site
Compensation information provided in the description
Full Time

Skills

Innovation
Operational Excellence
Documentation
Budget
Performance Metrics
Vendor Relationships
Computer Hardware
Mentorship
IT Management
Emerging Technologies
Industrial Engineering
Leadership
Programmable Logic Controller
SFC
SCADA
HMI
Computer Networking
Ethernet
IP
Intellectual Property
Modbus
Siemens
Regulatory Compliance
Cyber Security
Process Manufacturing
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Manufacturing
Management
Managed Services
Collaboration
Partnership
Value Engineering
Effective Communication
Law

Job Details

Director of Automation Engineer
  • Location: North America (US & Canada)
  • Status: Full-time Permanent
  • Department: Engineering
  • Salary: $130-$140KYR
  • Direct Hire, Full Time

About the Role
Position Summary:
Our client, a leader in the food ingredients industry, is seeking a Director of Automation to lead the development, standardization, and execution of automation technologies across their global production and manufacturing facilities. This role is responsible for driving innovation, efficiency, and operational excellence through the deployment of advanced control systems, PLC/SCADA platforms, and integrated automation solutions. The position will manage a global team (North America, Europe) and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure alignment with corporate and site-level objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Define and execute the global automation strategy across manufacturing sites
  • Lead multi-site implementation of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems
  • Standardize automation architecture, documentation, and protocols globally
  • Develop and oversee project plans, budgets, and performance metrics for automation initiatives
  • Establish cybersecurity protocols and ensure compliance with global OT standards
  • Collaborate with site leaders, engineering, IT, and operations to align automation capabilities with business needs
  • Manage vendor relationships and software/hardware partnerships
  • Mentor and develop regional automation teams and technical staff
  • Provide technical leadership for automation system troubleshooting and critical escalations
  • Evaluate emerging technologies for strategic investment and adoption

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Software, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (Master's preferred)
  • 10+ years of experience in automation engineering, including 5+ years in a leadership role
  • Experience with enterprise capital projects for automation & controls system upgrades
  • Proficiency in PLC programming (ladder, function block, structured text, SFC)
  • Strong experience with SCADA/HMI platforms and configuration
  • Knowledge of industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus)
  • Proven ability to manage multi-site automation projects and cross-functional teams
  • Familiarity with automation platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider Electric
  • Knowledge of safety, compliance, and industrial cybersecurity best practices

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in food processing, fermentation, or process manufacturing
  • Electrical and mechanical systems background
  • Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or equivalent
  • Experience leading digital transformation or smart manufacturing initiatives

Travel Requirements:
Up to 40-50% domestic and international travel to support site projects and global integration.

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