Automation Lead

About the role

Company Federal Reserve Bank of New York Working at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York positions you at the center of the financial world with a unique perspective on national and international markets and economies. You will work in an environment with a diverse group of experienced professionals to foster and support the safety, soundness, and vitality of our economic and financial systems. What we do: The Automation Lead role is critical to maintaining system uptime, supporting continuous improvement, and partnering with cross-functional teams to enhance automation capabilities, ensure safety compliance, and drive operational excellence. The Cash & Custody Function engages in critical operations on behalf of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the Federal Reserve System including the distribution of U.S. Dollar Currency to the Second District, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands & international customers, as well as Gold Safekeeping Operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) systems, proactively troubleshooting issues and guiding the team through fast, effective resolutions to minimize downtime.
• Serve as the go-to leader for a team of automation technicians—providing hands-on coaching, guiding skill development, and coordinating shift coverage to ensure consistent, reliable performance.
• Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation issues, driving timely resolution.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, and IT teams to implement system upgrades, software patches, and automation improvements.
• Develop and maintain documentation for Standard Operating Procedures, maintenance schedules, incident response plans, and system performance reporting.
• Monitor system KPIs and analyze performance trends to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements for both equipment and personnel.
• Support business continuity and contingency planning for automated systems.

Requirements

• A natural leader who communicates clearly, exercises sound judgment and is genuinely invested in the team's success and development.
• Proven ability to manage day-to-day operations, including scheduling, prioritization, coaching, and process execution.
• Background in mechanical, electrical, automation engineering, or a related technical field.
• Hands-on experience with automation systems and industrial equipment maintenance.
• Working knowledge of AGVs, robotics, PLCs, sensors, and other material handling technologies.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision to manage projects and processes.
• Availability for on-call support, shift flexibility, or rotating schedules as needed.
• This role is based out of East Rutherford, NJ. Potentially moving to Warren, NJ.

Pay

Salary Range: $120,000 - $150,000 per year. We believe in transparency at the NY Fed. This salary range reflects a variety of skills and experiences candidates may bring to the job. We pay individuals along this range based on their unique backgrounds. Whether you’re stretching into the job or are a more seasoned candidate, we aim to pay competitively for your contributions.

Benefits

• Learning & Growing: Educational assistance, career development tools, and stretch opportunities
• Supporting Your Family: Parental leave, adoption assistance, back-up dependent and elder care, college planning resources, and more
• Managing Your Health: Comprehensive insurance plans, leave policies, onsite Health & Wellness Center, and onsite Fitness Center
• Optimizing Your Finances: Pension plan, 401(k) with generous match, financial planning resources, and subsidized public transportation program