Automation Manager

Actively Hiring! | Automation Manager | Mason City, IA | Apply Now!

Job Description

As an Automation Manager, you will develop and implement automation strategies to optimize cost-effective manufacturing processes in line with product specifications and quality standards. You will recommend and incorporate new technologies, including Industry 4.0 advancements, to enhance production methods and controls.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement manufacturing concepts and cells using effective systems, lean principles, and simulation tools to optimize space, equipment, material usage, process flow, and personnel standard work.
• Support all current and new product introductions related to the manufacturing process.
• Assist production operations to reduce throughput time and improve quality.
• Stay informed of new manufacturing technologies and equipment to support and enhance product manufacturability cost-effectively.
• Lead or assist in cost reduction efforts by re-engineering products, materials, and processes.
• Develop plant layouts by planning rearrangements of facilities, equipment, and operations to better utilize space and workflows.
• Identify root causes of poor manufacturing process performance and work to reduce occurrences.
• Evaluate automation vendors and subcontractors to ensure manufacturing processes align with quality standards.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, focusing on cost, quality, and safety, and support the personal development of direct reports.
• Develop technology support strategies and prepare quotations for labor, tooling, and equipment.
• Participate in concurrent engineering design reviews and evaluate and approve drawings, routings, specs, and other documents.
• Conduct training to introduce new processes and provide leadership and training to meet company talent development objectives.
• Complete team member reviews, provide coaching, and manage team time off and approvals.
• Prioritize team activities to ensure efficiency and adherence to completion dates.

Essential Skills

• Leadership and coaching skills
• Capital improvement expertise
• Computer proficiency
• Experience with manufacturing environment and engineering management
• Automation engineering and systems knowledge
• Electrical and manufacturing engineering
• Lean manufacturing and process improvement
• Ability to analyze, design, and implement manufacturing concepts using systems and simulation tools

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with MRP systems
• Project management skills
• Knowledge of production automation and robotics
• Proficiency in CAD, specifically SolidWorks with PDM
• Weld experience
• B.S. degree in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or a related field preferred
• Ability to plan over a 2+ year time span
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to work with vendors, customers, and employees

Work Environment

The work environment involves both indoor and outdoor settings, with tasks performed in a shop environment and exposure to all weather conditions. Safety glasses are required during specific tasks and in manufacturing areas. The role may involve occasional lifting of items up to 50 lbs. There is potential for hybrid work with on-site presence twice a week. The company offers opportunities for growth through innovation and expansion.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Garner, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $125000.00/yr.

Competitive 401k Standard holidays and PTO

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Garner,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 28, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.