Automation & Engineering Manager

This role leads engineering projects from concept through implementation and supports automation technologies, material handling equipment (MHE), warehouse systems, and facility infrastructure to improve safety, efficiency, reliability, and operational performance. Reporting to the General Manager of Engineering, the Automation & Engineering Manager is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of engineering and automation systems across ofi’s warehousing and distribution center operations.

Description

We are a global leader in food & beverage ingredients. Pioneers at heart, we operate at the forefront of consumer trends to provide food & beverage manufacturers with products and ingredients that will delight their consumers. Making a positive impact on people and planet is all part of the delight. With a deep-rooted presence in the countries where our ingredients are grown, we are closer to farmers, enabling better quality, and more reliable, traceable and transparent supply. Supplying products and ingredients at scale is just the start. We add value through our unique, complementary portfolio of natural, delicious and nutritious products. With our fresh thinking, we help our customers unleash the sensory and functional attributes of cocoa, coffee, dairy, nuts and spices so they can create naturally good food & beverage products that meet consumer expectations. And whoever we’re with, whatever we’re doing, we always make it real.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the General Manager of Engineering, the Automation & Engineering Manager is responsible for supporting the design, implementation, and optimization of engineering and automation systems across ofi’s warehousing and distribution center operations. This role leads engineering projects from concept through implementation and supports automation technologies, material handling equipment (MHE), warehouse systems, and facility infrastructure to improve safety, efficiency, reliability, and operational performance.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience in project engineering, warehouse automation, material handling systems, and project execution. This role requires the ability to manage multiple engineering initiatives, troubleshoot complex systems, coordinate with vendors and integrators, and collaborate across Operations, IT, Maintenance, and other cross-functional teams. Experience with automated warehousing technologies, WMS/WCS integration, and distribution or manufacturing environments is strongly preferred.

Position Responsibilities: 

• Lead and support engineering projects across warehousing and distribution centers from concept through completion.
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, IT, Maintenance, vendors, and other stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Develop and manage project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource requirements.
• Manage contractors, vendors, and system integrators during installation, commissioning, and implementation.
• Ensure engineering projects comply with applicable safety, quality, and industry standards.
• Design, specify, and implement automation solutions, including conveyors, sorters, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), robotics, and warehouse control systems (WCS).
• Analyze warehouse processes and identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and process improvement.
• Partner with IT and software teams to support integration between Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), and automation technologies.
• Conduct testing, validation, troubleshooting, and commissioning of automated systems.
• Provide engineering support to warehouse operations, including troubleshooting material handling equipment and automation systems.
• Perform root-cause analysis of equipment and system failures and recommend corrective actions.
• Monitor system performance and identify continuous improvement opportunities.
• Support facility layout design, equipment selection, and infrastructure planning for new and existing facilities.
• Develop engineering reports, project tracking, and performance analytics using tools such as MS Project, Excel, and Power BI.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, or related field required. 
• Eight (8) to ten (10) years of project engineering experience within warehousing, distribution, logistics, or manufacturing required. 
• Experience with warehouse automation systems, including conveyors, robotics, ASRS, AGVs, or pick-to-light systems required. 
• Strong knowledge of material handling equipment (MHE), industrial automation, and warehouse operations required. 
• Experience managing engineering projects, including vendor coordination, installation, commissioning, and on-site implementation required. 
• Experience with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar CAD software preferred. 
• Familiarity with WMS, WCS, and SCADA systems preferred. 
• Basic knowledge of PLC programming, including Rockwell or Siemens systems, preferred. 
• Experience with MS Project, Excel, Power BI, or similar project management and reporting tools preferred. 
• Strong project management, analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills required. 
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time required. 

ofi provides employees with a comprehensive & competitive benefits package that is designed to support your career, health, and future. A Rewarding Career Awaits!     

The pay for this role ranges from $113,000 - $151,000 annually and is based on the position responsibilities and geographic location. Actual pay within this range may be determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and/or other determining factors.   

Performance-based Bonuses: Discretionary bonus rewarding company performance as well as your contributions and impact, for eligible roles.  

Comprehensive & Affordable Benefits: Coverage for you (and your eligible dependents) with plans designed for peace of mind and savings for the future.  

A Culture of Well-being: Paid Volunteer time off, access to events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being for you and your family.  

Family Support: Paid parental leave, Fertility benefits and lactation support, including milk shipping for traveling employees.  

Additional Perks That Make a Difference:  

• Vacation time from Day 1 – Your time off starts accruing immediately, growing with your tenure.  
• Paid Sick Leave –   Rest, recover, and return strong – with paid sick leave on ofi.  
• Company Paid Holidays – ofi values work-life balance and the importance of celebrating life’s special moments.  
• 401K Match on Day 1 – Invest in your future with our competitive retirement savings program.  
• Career Growth & Learning – Join a company committed to developing talent, fostering innovation, and creating meaningful opportunities.  

At ofi, we don’t just offer jobs—we provide careers built on impact, inclusion, and innovation. Come grow with us!  

ofi provides equality of opportunity for all persons with respect to hiring without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation. All employment will be decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us for support at: 

US-Talent.Acquisition@ofi.com

  

At ofi, we celebrate our diversity. Olam Americas LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.  

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.