Automation Engineering Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Summary: Develops and implements automation for optimal, cost-effective manufacturing processes and methods in accordance with product specifications and quality standards. Recommends and implements new technologies including I4.0 and other state of the art production processes, methods, and controls.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Analyze, design, and implement manufacturing concepts and cells using effective systems, lean principles, and simulation tools to optimize; use of space, equipment, material usage, process flow and personnel standard work (reduce motion and waste).

• Support all current and new product introductions as it relates to the manufacturing process.

• Assist all production operations in improvements to reduce throughput time and improve quality.

• Stay informed of new manufacturing technologies and equipment to support and improve the manufacturability of quality products in a cost-effective manner.

• Lead or assist with cost reduction efforts through re-engineering of the product, material, and the process.

• Assist in developing plant layout in planning rearrangement of facilities, equipment, and operations for better utilization of space and workflows.

• Determine root causes of poor manufacturing process performance and work to diminish occurrences.

• Assist in the assessment of automation vendor/subcontractor evaluation to ensure the manufacturing processes are in accordance with Stellar specifications and quality standards.

• Initiate and promote a culture of continuous improvement, especially as it relates to cost, quality, safety, including the personal development of direct reports.

• Responsible for the development of technology support strategies.

• Prepare quotations for labor, tooling, and equipment to support the business unit requirements.

• Participate in concurrent engineering design reviews.

• Evaluate and approve drawings, routings, specs, and other documents.

• Ensure training is conducted to introduce new processes.

• Provide leadership and training to accomplish company talent development strategies and objectives.

• Complete team member reviews, and provide coaching as needed.

• Manage team members time off and time approvals.

• Prioritize team members activities and ensure teams are working efficiently, including meeting expected completion dates.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

General Competencies Required:

• Leadership and coaching skills.

• Capital improvement.

• Computer proficiency.

Preferred Experience:

• MRP Systems experience preferred.

• Project Management.

• Production automation and robotics

• Computer assisted design (CAD) proficiency SolidWorks w/PDM.

• Weld Experience

Skills Required:

• Computer Proficient with the ability to work fluently with Microsoft 365 Suite.

• Knowledge of statistics is required with general numeracy, coupled with good interpersonal skills.

Education and Experience:

• B.S. degree in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering or related field is preferred.

• Planning: an ability to think ahead and plan over a 2+ year time span.

• Experience in manufacturing engineering or a commensurate level of experience with related products. Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ability to communicate verbally, in writing and make presentations.

• Ability to work with vendors, customers, and employees.

Physical Requirements:

• While performing the job duties, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.

• The employee frequently is required to talk and hear, and frequently required to reach, stoop, kneel and crouch.

• Occasional lifting of items not to exceed 50 lbs.

• Employee will be required to work indoors in a shop environment and outside in all weather conditions.

• May be required to use safety glasses while performing specific tasks or while in manufacturing areas.

Additional Requirements:

• Company sponsored continuing education may be required.

• Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out-of-the-area and overnight travel may be expected.

Design & Engineering, Automation