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Automation Engineering Manager Jobs in California

Lead MFG Automation Engineer

Lodi, CA · On-site

$127K - $175K/yr

This position reports to the Sr. Manager, MFG Automation Engineering and is part of the MFG Automation Engineering department located in Lodi, CA, and will be an on-site role. In this role, you will ...

Lead MFG Automation Engineer

Lodi, CA · On-site

$127K - $175K/yr

This position reports to the Sr. Manager, MFG Automation Engineering and is part of the MFG Automation Engineering department located in Lodi, CA, and will be an on-site role. In this role, you will ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Benicia, CA · On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

Description About CKC Automation CKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through ... You'll work side-by-side, in person, with engineering, project management, and sales to scope ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Benicia, CA · On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

Description About CKC Automation CKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through ... You'll work side-by-side, in person, with engineering, project management, and sales to scope ...

... Engineering or related technical discipline * 3-7 years of experience supporting or managing ... Robotics, Automation controls, Conveyor systems, Software platforms, Databases, System integrations

Sr Automation Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $157K/yr

Manage, document, and implement these upgrades through changes control procedures. * Execute ... Engineering, or related field. * 5+ years' Emerson DeltaV Batch experience required. * 5+ years ...

Engineering Manager

Vista, CA · On-site

$160K/yr

In January 2024, ITW created a Pharma Automation B.U. after acquiring RxSafe and combining it with ... We are now seeking an Engineering Manager - Pharmacy Automation role who will be highly involved in ...

Showing results 41-60

Automation Engineering Manager information

See California salary details

$88.8K

$136.2K

$171.2K

How much do automation engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineering manager in California is $136,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $157,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation engineering manager do?

An Automation Engineering Manager oversees the design, implementation, and optimization of automated systems in manufacturing or software development. They lead a team of engineers to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance productivity through automation technologies. Responsibilities include project management, system integration, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. They collaborate with other departments to align automation strategies with company goals. Strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation engineering manager?

An Automation Engineering Manager should have a strong background in automation technologies, process improvement, project management, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC/SCADA systems, robotics, industrial control systems, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma is often required. Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive team performance and foster cross-functional collaboration. These capabilities are essential for delivering efficient automation solutions, ensuring project success, and guiding multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by automation engineering managers in their day-to-day work?

Automation Engineering Managers often balance multiple projects and deadlines while ensuring high quality and compliance with industry standards. A common challenge is integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, which requires careful planning and troubleshooting. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including operations, IT, and maintenance—is crucial for aligning technical solutions with business goals. Additionally, staying current with emerging automation trends and training team members on new tools is a key part of the role, helping drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineering Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineering Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automation Engineering Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automation Engineering Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Engineering Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,245 per year, or $65.5 per hour.

Sr Manager Network Impvmt & Automation

Mattel

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Mattel rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Company Description
CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It's our heritage and it's also our future. Because we don't just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard-when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.
Job Description
The Opportunity:
This role leads the strategy, implementation, and optimization of automation technologies across Mattel's North American distribution center operations. This role is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and deploying automation solutions that improve safety, productivity, quality, capacity, and service levels while supporting long-term supply chain growth. The position works closely with DC Directors, DC Operations Teams, Engineering, IT, Supply Chain, Finance, and external partners to ensure successful execution of automation initiatives and continuous improvement of automated systems.
What Your Impact Will Be:
Automation Strategy & Innovation
  • Develop and maintain a 2 to 5-year distribution center automation roadmap aligned with business objectives and DC Directors' operational needs. Develop business cases, ROI analyses, and capital investment proposals.
  • Identify opportunities to improve operational performance through automation and digital technologies.
  • Evaluate emerging automation solutions including robotics, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), goods-to-person technologies, and AI-enabled warehouse solutions.

Project Leadership & Execution
  • Lead automation projects from concept development through design, implementation, commissioning, and stabilization.
  • Manage project budgets, timelines, resources, risks, and vendor relationships.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful deployment and adoption of automation solutions.
  • Establish collaborative project control and executive reporting processes.

Systems Integration & Performance
  • Partner with IT and Engineering to integrate automation technologies with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), ERP, and transportation systems.
  • Monitor system performance, identify improvement opportunities, and drive corrective actions.
  • Develop and track KPIs related to throughput, uptime, labor productivity, quality, and service levels.

Operational Excellence
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven methodologies.
  • Improve operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, order fulfillment performance, and workplace safety.
  • Support network capacity planning and future distribution center design initiatives.
  • Standardize automation processes, procedures, and best practices across all Mattel NA DC facilities.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management
  • Manage relationships with automation vendors, system integrators, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
  • Support RFP processes and vendor evaluations.
  • Partner with the Procurement Team on vendor contract negotiations and performance reviews.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and results to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.

Team Leadership
  • Build, develop, and lead a high-performing NI automation engineering team.
  • Coach team members and foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning; provide timely performance reviews.
  • Support organizational change management efforts related to new technologies and operating models.

Qualifications
What We're Looking For:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
  • 8-12+ years of experience in supply chain, warehouse operations, automation, engineering, or logistics.
  • 5+ years of leadership experience managing complex automation projects and cross-functional teams.

Preferred skills:
  • Master's degree or MBA.
  • PMP certification.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.
  • Experience with multi-site distribution networks and large-scale capital projects.
  • Experience implementing warehouse automation technologies such as ASRS, sortation systems, robotics, conveyor systems, AMRs, and automated packaging solutions.
  • Strong understanding of WMS, WCS, and WES platforms.
  • Proven project management and vendor management experience.

*The pay range is indicative of projected hiring range, however base pay will be determined based on a candidate's work location, skills and experience. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.
Additional Information
Don't meet every single requirement? At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Join Mattel's Talent Community and start receiving exciting updates about our company, our employees, and our culture. Also, interested in signing up for job alerts? Do so here!
How We Work:
We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors:
  • We collaborate: Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process and our collective capabilities is our superpower.
  • We innovate: At Mattel we always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. We welcome new ideas and value new initiatives that challenge conventional thinking.
  • We execute: We are a performance-driven company. We strive for excellence and are focused on pursuing best-in-class outcomes. We believe in accountability and ownership and know that our people are at their best when they are empowered to create and deliver results.

Who We Are:
Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, MEGA and Polly Pocket, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world's leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential.
Mattel's award-winning workplace culture has been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, Newsweek, Great Place to Work, TIME, and more.
Visit us at https://jobs.mattel.com/ and www.instagram.com/MattelCareers.
Mattel is an Equal Opportunity Employer where we want you to bring your authentic self to work every day. We welcome all job seekers, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran and protected veteran status, disability status, and or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
Pursuant to the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment.
Videos to watch:
The Culture at Mattel
Corporate Philanthropy
Videos To Watch
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