1

Automation Engineering Manager Jobs in Manawa, WI

This role combines mechanical engineering and machine design expertise with a strong understanding ... Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. * Strong project planning and ...

Lead Industrial Engineer/ Manager

Appleton, WI · On-site

$107K - $133K/yr

... automation, robotics, material flow improvements, and digital manufacturing solutions ... Actively collaborate with customer leadership, operations, engineering, and sales teams to expand ...

Global Automation Analyst

Neenah, WI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We are consistently ranked among the top 10% of Engineering News-Record's Top 400 Contractors * Our ... You possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with all levels of management

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineering Manager information

See Manawa, WI salary details

$85.5K

$131.2K

$164.9K

How much do automation engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineering manager in Manawa, WI is $131,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,700.00 and $152,000.00 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 cities near Manawa, WI are hiring for Automation Engineering Manager jobs?

Cities near Manawa, WI with the most Automation Engineering Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Engineering Manager job openings in Manawa, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,184 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Automation Engineer

CMD CORPORATION

Appleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Automation Engineer

Position Summary: The Automation Engineer is responsible for designing and developing custom automated machinery, robotic systems, and manufacturing equipment to meet customer and business requirements. This role combines mechanical engineering and machine design expertise with a strong understanding of automation technologies, robotics, motion control, and machine integration. The Automation Engineer collaborates with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams throughout the project lifecycle, from concept development through installation and startup.

Automation Engineer Essential Functions:

  • Design and develop custom automated machinery, machine assemblies, tooling, fixtures, and robotic work cells.
  • Create machine layouts, 3D CAD models, detail drawings, and bills of materials using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
  • Develop innovative automation solutions for manufacturing, assembly, material handling, case packing, cartoning, inspection, and palletizing applications.
  • Evaluate and select mechanical, pneumatic, robotic, and automation components based on performance, cost, and reliability requirements.
  • Collaborate with Controls Engineers to define system architecture, machine operation, safety requirements, and equipment functionality.
  • Support robotic integrations, including robot selection, reach studies, payload analysis, and end-of-arm tooling design.
  • Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project planning activities to define requirements and present technical solutions.
  • Prepare concepts, specifications, technical documentation, engineering estimates, and project support materials.
  • Assist manufacturing and assembly teams with troubleshooting, design improvements, and technical problem resolution.
  • Support machine testing, validation, factory acceptance testing (FAT), installation, and commissioning activities.
  • Review mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls documentation to ensure proper system integration.
  • Maintain engineering documentation, drawings, change records, and design standards.
  • Ensure designs comply with applicable safety, quality, and industry standards.
  • Research emerging technologies and recommend improvements to increase machine performance, reliability, and efficiency.
  • Travel to customer locations as needed to support project development, installation, startup, and technical support activities.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Automation Engineer Competencies:

  • Mechanical design and machine development expertise.
  • Working knowledge of industrial automation, controls, and robotics systems.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
  • Strong project planning and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Customer-focused mindset with the ability to present technical concepts clearly.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, manufacturing, and customer teams.
  • Initiative, accountability, and continuous improvement mindset.

Automation Engineer Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
  • 5+ years of experience in machine design, automation engineering, robotics integration, or custom equipment development.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
  • Experience designing automated machinery, tooling, fixtures, and mechanical systems.
  • Working knowledge of industrial automation, robotics, motion control, PLCs, HMIs, and pneumatic systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic drawings.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate effectively with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally to support customer meetings, installations, and commissioning activities.

Additional Details and Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with robotics integration, material handling, assembly, product handling, casepacking, palletizing, etc. highly desired.
  • Experience with FANUC or other industrial robotic systems.
  • Familiarity with Rockwell and/or Beckhoff automation platforms and hardware.
  • Understanding of automation systems and components is preferred; PLC, HMI, and robot programming experience a plus, but not required.
  • Experience with packaging, material handling, assembly, or custom automation equipment.
  • Knowledge of machine safety standards and risk assessment practices.

Work Environment: CMD is located in Appleton, WI. Our three facilities operate by secure entry, are well lit, air temperature controlled for comfort, and clean with low noise. Safety is our top priority. Our culture is centered around mutual respect, clarity of communication, and employee wellbeing.

Physical Demands:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, and use hands and fingers.
  • Physical movement is required to inspect, touch, bend, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch or twist in the capital equipment manufacturing process.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements and ability to adjust focus.
  • Light to moderate lifting may be required, up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to navigate manufacturing floor environment, which may include walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods.
  • Capacity to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, ear protection, and hard hat as needed.
  • Ability to tolerate exposure to moderate levels of noise, vibration, odor, and varying temperatures in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to follow health and safety guidelines and protocols including emergency procedures.
  • Regular, predictable attendance is required.

Status: Full-time, nonexempt

Travel: None

Work Authorization/Security Clearance/Confidentiality: Must be authorized to work in the United States and adhere to CMD’s confidentiality agreement(s).

EEO Statement: CMD Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, parental status, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.