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Automation Project Manager Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

General information Organisation The HAHN Automation Group is the global solution partner for ... Reference 2026-1782 Functional Area Project Management Position description Job title Project ...

... building automation systems. This role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to quality and safety standards, while managing technical aspects and coordinating numerous ...

... building automation systems. This role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to quality and safety standards, while managing technical aspects and coordinating numerous ...

... building automation systems. This role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to quality and safety standards, while managing technical aspects and coordinating numerous ...

... building automation systems. This role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to quality and safety standards, while managing technical aspects and coordinating numerous ...

... building automation systems. This role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to quality and safety standards, while managing technical aspects and coordinating numerous ...

Project management experience in a technical environment (building automation systems, fire alarm systems, electronic security systems and AV systems). * Coaching, mentoring, and staff development ...

Project management experience in a technical environment (building automation systems, fire alarm systems, electronic security systems and AV systems). * Coaching, mentoring, and staff development ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Understand the project scope and financials and exercise good time management skills to plan ... automation projects for process plants - preferably in CPG / Life Sciences / Food & Beverage ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC

$96K - $126K/yr

Understand the project scope and financials and exercise good time management skills to plan ... automation projects for process plants - preferably in CPG / Life Sciences / Food & Beverage ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Understand the project scope and financials and exercise good time management skills to plan ... automation projects for process plants - preferably in CPG / Life Sciences / Food & Beverage ...

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Automation Project Manager information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$37.6K

$92K

$134.3K

How much do automation project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation project manager in Columbia, SC is $92,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Project Manager vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation Project ManagerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, relevant technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, coordinates teams, manages timelinesDesigns, develops, tests automation systems and solutions
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, IT, and industrial sectors for project oversightFocuses on technical automation system development and implementation

The Automation Project Manager primarily oversees automation projects, coordinating teams and managing timelines, while the Automation Engineer focuses on designing and developing automation solutions. Both roles require technical knowledge, but differ in responsibilities and focus areas within automation projects.

How does an automation project manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

An Automation Project Manager works closely with engineers, IT specialists, operations staff, and vendors to ensure the successful delivery of automation projects. They facilitate regular meetings, clarify project requirements, and coordinate timelines to align various teams toward common goals. Effective communication is key, as they often bridge gaps between technical and non-technical stakeholders. By fostering collaboration and addressing potential roadblocks early, they help keep projects on track and within budget.

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

To thrive as an Automation Project Manager, you need a background in engineering or computer science, project management expertise, and experience with automation technologies. Familiarity with tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, project management software (e.g., MS Project), and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma is common. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills help coordinate teams and manage stakeholder expectations. These skills ensure successful project delivery, efficient automation implementation, and effective cross-functional collaboration.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Project Manager jobs in Columbia, SC? For Automation Project Manager jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Automation Project Manager jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Automation Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Project Manager job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,010 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Sr. Engineering Project Manager - Controls

Mars

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Description:

Sr. Engineering Project Manager - Controls

Based at OH, NE, CA, AR

The Sr Engineering Project Manager (Controls/IT) is responsible for providing engineering expertise and technical support in the area of electrical, automation, and factory IT systems across multiple Pet Nutrition manufacturing sites throughout the North America region. This will require the ability to work across multiple segments (wet and dry pet food) and all aspects of electrical, instrumentation, Factory IT and control disciplines for batch, continuous process, and packaging systems. The Sr Engineering Project Manager is an active member of the regional engineering and control teams in addition to assigned project teams.

What are we looking for?

Minimum:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering AND
  • 5+ years' experience in a comparable technical position OR
  • 10+ Controls experience within the Food and Beverage industry
  • In depth knowledge of industrial low voltage electrical systems, instrumentation, PLC, HMI/SCADA and industrial control networks
  • Knowledge of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)/Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) systems, Factory IT Systems (physical/virtual servers, networks), and Factory Cyber Security is a plus
  • Fundamental knowledge of project management (scheduling, contractor relationship, etc.)
  • Proven ability to work in a team environment and on high performing teams
  • Strong communication, listening, and influencing skills
  • Ability to travel up to 50%

Preferred:

  • Electrical or Electronics Engineering or other related electrical or controls degree
  • 5+ years' experience in a comparable technical position within the following industries: food, beverage, pharmaceutical or related
What will be your key responsibilities?
  • Delivering several capital investment projects simultaneously, from providing technical scoping with internal customer and business stakeholders, through design with 3rd parties, to Project Closure.
  • Technology Research, Evaluation, and Selection: Research and evaluate emerging digitalization and automation technologies to identify solutions suitable for specific project requirements in collaboration with regional and global engineering.
  • System Integration and Implementation: Oversee the integration and implementation of digitalization and advanced automation systems within existing manufacturing infrastructure. Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal teams to ensure seamless deployment and adherence to project timelines.
  • Collaboration and Automation: Collaborate with controls engineers, and IT/automation engineers to tailor solutions for optimal performance to meet the unique requirements of manufacturing processes.
  • Compliance and Standards Adherence: Ensure digitalization and automation projects comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, safety, and quality guidelines.
  • Risk Management: Identify and manage project risks associated with digitalization and automation initiatives. Mitigate potential issues and resolve project-related challenges to ensure successful project delivery.
  • Handover to Operations: Facilitate the transition of completed projects to operations and technical teams. Ensure digitalization and automation systems are properly commissioned, tested, and handed over for ongoing maintenance and support.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Provide regular updates on project status, milestones, and deliverables.
  • Budget and Resource Management:Manage project budgets and resources effectively to ensure cost-efficient execution of digitalization and automation projects. Monitor expenditures, allocate resources, and track project progress against financial targets.
  • Training and Knowledge Transfer:Provide training and support to end-users and operational staff on using and maintaining digitalization and automation systems. Facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development to ensure successful adoption and utilization of new technologies.
  • Vendor and Supplier Management:Collaborate with external vendors and suppliers to procure hardware, software, and services required for digitalization and automation projects. Negotiate contracts, manage vendor relationships, and ensure deliverables meet quality standards and specifications.
What can you expect from Mars?
  • Ability to have influence across 14 different sites across the Pet Nutrition North American network
  • Work with over 130,000 like-minded and talented Associates, all guided by The Five Principles.
  • Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
  • Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
  • An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars does not sponsor visas for this role.

This position is not eligible for relocation benefits.

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#LI-Onsite

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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