Automation Manager

Why Emotiv

At Emotiv, we don’t just move materials. We accelerate possibility. We are reimagining mobility with advanced warehousing and sequencing solutions trusted by leading automotive OEMs. We are a team of doers, thinkers, and builders who believe operational excellence is achieved through empowered people and a constant drive to improve.

If you’re looking for a company where you can be seen, grow, and help shape the future of supply chain innovation, we’d love to meet you.

The Role

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Automation Manager to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and controls systems across plant operations. This role is responsible for advancing manufacturing capabilities through innovative automation solutions, robotics, industrial controls, and Industry 4.0 technologies that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.

The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking technical leader with deep expertise in automation, controls engineering, and smart manufacturing. They are passionate about leveraging technology, data, and continuous improvement principles to drive operational excellence, optimize manufacturing processes, and support business growth. This individual will collaborate across engineering, operations, maintenance, and IT teams to deliver scalable automation solutions that enable a high-performing and future-ready manufacturing environment.

This position is based on-site at our Kansas City, KS facility and reports to the Plant Manager as part of the plant operations team.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and manage all plant automation, controls, and industrial technology initiatives to improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.
• Develop, implement, and standardize machine controls, PLC programming, HMI systems, and automation solutions across manufacturing operations.
• Drive the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including robotics, Industrial IoT (IIoT), artificial intelligence, machine learning, advanced analytics, and connected manufacturing systems.
• Oversee plant SCADA systems, controls architecture, industrial networks, data integration, and cybersecurity standards.
• Establish, maintain, and continuously improve automation and controls standards, best practices, and documentation.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, Operations, and IT teams to identify and execute automation opportunities that enhance plant performance.
• Lead automation-related capital projects, including equipment specifications, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and startup support.
• Manage automation budgets, software licensing, controls hardware, and external vendor and integrator relationships.
• Support new product launches by defining automation requirements, developing controls strategies, and ensuring equipment readiness.
• Analyze manufacturing data and system performance to identify opportunities for continuous improvement, waste elimination, and process optimization.
• Provide technical leadership, coaching, and troubleshooting support for controls engineers, maintenance technicians, and plant personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements related to automation and control systems.

 Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, and manufacturing systems.
• Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, robotics (preferably Fanuc), vision systems, and automated manufacturing equipment.
• Expertise with Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley platforms, SCADA systems, HMIs, and industrial communication networks.
• Proficient in controls design, system integration, troubleshooting, commissioning, and process optimization.
• Proven experience leading automation projects, managing capital investments, and coordinating with external vendors and system integrators.
• Solid understanding of industrial safety requirements, machine safeguarding, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) standards.
• Strong project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional leadership skills with the ability to drive automation initiatives from concept through implementation.
• Ability to analyze complex manufacturing challenges and implement innovative, data-driven automation solutions that improve operational performance.

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

• Work performed in office and manufacturing environments with exposure to automation systems and electrical equipment.
• Travel up to 15% required.
• Must follow all safety protocols including LOTO and PPE requirements.
• Must have valid drivers license

Life at Emotiv

We believe great work happens when people feel valued, supported, and connected. At Emotiv, you will find a culture built on collaboration, learning, and celebrating wins of all sizes. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to grow your career alongside industry leaders who are shaping the future of sustainable mobility. 

Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

Explore everything we have to offer at Emotiv Careers!