Director, Process & Automation Engineering

About the role

The Director, Process & Automation Engineering leads the development, validation, industrialization, and deployment of new manufacturing capabilities across Process and Automation Engineering. Serving as Advanced Manufacturing Engineering's primary execution leader, this role translates enterprise manufacturing strategy into site-level delivery by managing engineering priorities, manpower allocation, project execution, technical direction, and production readiness.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Process and Automation Engineering teams and align priorities to business and manufacturing goals
• Drive development and industrialization of new manufacturing processes and capabilities not currently performed in-house
• Oversee automation systems, controls, equipment integration, and automated material handling solutions
• Support development of systems that move material from storage to machines and between process steps in an efficient and repeatable manner
• Establish the equipment-level foundation for future IoT / Industry 4.0 capabilities, including machine connectivity, sensor integration, and data readiness
• Deliver projects on time and on budget by managing scope, schedule, budget, and execution risk
• Prioritize and allocate engineering manpower to support the highest-value initiatives and meet project goals
• Provide technical guidance to engineers when needed to support sound decisions, problem-solving, and successful execution
• Partner with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and IT to ensure strong cross-functional alignment and effective implementation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, automation, industrialization, or related roles
• Leadership experience managing teams, technical projects, or cross-functional initiatives
• Strong background in developing new manufacturing capabilities, automation systems, and equipment integration
• Experience managing projects involving scope, budget, schedule, and resource planning
• Strong communication, technical problem-solving, and organizational leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience in bringing new manufacturing capabilities in-house from concept through production
• Experience with robotics, controls, vision systems, and automated material handling
• Familiarity with machine connectivity, sensor integration, and equipment readiness for future connected manufacturing initiatives
• Experience working with external integrators, equipment suppliers, or machine builders