Operational Technology Leader
Hill's Pet Nutrition · Topeka, KS · 1 mo ago
On-siteManagement$115k–$140k/yrFull-time
Responsibilities
- Lead and execute manufacturing system projects across areas of plant floor systems, PLC control, devices and instrumentation, and networking, from conception to completion.
- Enforce standards that ensure global consistency of manufacturing and integration systems.
- Use technical skills including PLC/Archestra programming, HMI screen development, and data acquisition/analytics to integrate and improve automation and manufacturing system projects.
- Manage the configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of OT network infrastructure, ensuring cybersecurity integrity and reliable performance of plant floor control systems.
- Supervise OT resources and establish strong relationships with plant leadership, engineering, and global Manufacturing System, Automation, and IT teams.
- Participate in local plant meetings to provide updates on project performance.
- Analyze system performance to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency improvements, and cost savings.
- Utilize Factory Performance & Reliability (FP&R) tools to deliver operational excellence.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field
- 5+ years of experience in plant floor systems, integration, and automation controls within a manufacturing environment
- Demonstrated expertise in Allen-Bradley PLCs, Wonderware (Archestra, MES, InTouch), and Microsoft SQL Server
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) or pet food manufacturing
- Advanced knowledge of Aveva system platform or similar (MES, SCADA, ERP Integration)
- Advanced knowledge of IT/OT network design (Cisco, Industrial Ethernet)
- Familiarity with cybersecurity protocols specifically for industrial control systems
- Strong understanding of Factory Performance & Reliability (FP&R) and Operational Excellence metrics
Qualifications
- Currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions
- Minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year)
- Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws