Automation Project Manager

Role: Automation Project Manager

Location: Hickory, NC
Salary: Up to $190,000 depending on experience

We are recruiting a Automation Project Manager to lead and oversee an automation and controls engineering team within an established manufacturing environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced controls or automation professional who combines strong technical knowledge with project management and team leadership skills. You will be responsible for coordinating automation projects from initial planning through to implementation and commissioning, ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently and in line with operational requirements.

With a strong focus on Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation systems, you will work closely with engineering, maintenance, manufacturing and other stakeholders to deliver automation improvements, equipment upgrades and projects that enhance production performance and reliability.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead, manage and coordinate a team of controls and automation engineers, providing technical guidance and support.
• Oversee multiple automation and controls projects, managing priorities, schedules, budgets and resources.
• Plan and deliver projects from concept and design through development, installation, commissioning and handover.
• Oversee projects involving Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation PLCs, HMIs, industrial controls and associated automation technologies.
• Work closely with manufacturing, maintenance and engineering teams to identify opportunities for automation improvements and increased operational efficiency.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks and resolve issues that could affect delivery, cost or quality.
• Coordinate internal engineering resources, contractors and external suppliers to ensure successful project execution.
• Ensure engineering work complies with relevant safety requirements, technical standards and site procedures.
• Support the development of team members, encourage knowledge sharing and promote good engineering practices.
• Provide project updates to management and maintain accurate technical and project documentation.
• Contribute to longer-term automation strategies, equipment modernisation and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in controls engineering, automation engineering or industrial project delivery.
• Previous experience managing projects and coordinating engineering teams within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong technical understanding of PLC-based control systems, particularly Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation.
• Familiarity with PLC programming platforms such as Studio 5000 and RSLogix.
• Experience managing project schedules, budgets, resources and competing priorities.
• Ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational and decision-making skills.
• A practical understanding of industrial equipment, manufacturing processes and automation system integration.
• A commitment to safe working practices, quality and reliable project delivery.

Desirable Experience

• Experience managing capital expenditure projects and manufacturing equipment upgrades.
• Knowledge of HMI, SCADA, industrial networks, drives and motion control systems.
• Experience with commissioning, system integration and production line automation.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies, risk management and continuous improvement.
• A relevant engineering qualification or recognised project management qualification.

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