Freelance Automation Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Director of Automation

Department: Automation / Operations

Reports To: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Location: North Las Vegas, NV (Onsite)

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

The Director of Automation, reporting to the CTO, is a strategic and hands-on leadership role responsible for overseeing all automation operations across the organization. This includes the development, execution, and continuous improvement of automation systems, equipment, and use supporting live events, touring productions, installations, and specialty projects.

This role leads the company’s automation function utilizing Raynok technology, guiding teams to deliver safe, precise, and innovative motion control solutions. The Director of Automation ensures the organization maintains a highly skilled workforce, both internally and across gig/crew labor, capable of executing complex automation systems to meet client expectations and project demands.

Based onsite in North Las Vegas, this role operates in a fast-paced industrial warehouse and production environment and serves as a key partner to Operations, Engineering, Project Management, and global automation teams.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Strategy & Execution

· Lead the overall automation strategy, ensuring scalable, reliable, and innovative solutions across all business lines

· Oversee deployment, programming, testing, and operation of automation systems using Raynok software

· Establish and enforce automation standards, best practices, and operational protocols

· Ensure all automation systems meet safety, compliance, and performance requirements

Team Leadership & Workforce Development

· Build, lead, and develop a high-performing automation team based in North Las Vegas

· Partner with HR on recruitment, training, and performance management of full-time automation staff

· Develop and maintain a qualified pool of crew/gig automation operators and technicians

· Ensure all personnel are properly trained and certified in automation systems, safety standards, and software requirements

· Create structured training programs and certification pathways for automation crew

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Partner closely with the Director of Operations to align automation resources with project execution needs

· Collaborate with Project Managers to ensure automation scope, staffing, and technical requirements are clearly defined and executed

· Work with engineering teams, including international partners in Canada, on system design, integration, and innovation

· Support Sales and Business Development teams with technical expertise during project scoping and client engagements

Operational Excellence

· Oversee automation equipment readiness, maintenance, and inventory coordination

· Ensure proper pre-production planning, testing, and validation of automation systems

· Lead troubleshooting and problem resolution during project execution

· Drive continuous improvement across automation processes, tools, and performance

Safety & Compliance

· Champion a safety-first culture in all automation operations

· Ensure compliance with safety regulations, rigging standards, and company policies

· Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies

· Partner with Safety leadership on automation-specific training

Qualifications

Required

· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field

· At least five (5) years of experience operating and managing motion control systems and/or large-scale theatrical production environments

· At least three (3) years of leadership experience managing technical teams and/or freelance crews

· Demonstrated experience operating large-scale theatrical or live event automation systems

· Advanced experience with automation control systems (Raynok strongly preferred)

· Strong understanding of rigging systems, motion control, and live event production environments

· Proven ability to lead complex technical projects from concept through execution

· Experience working in industrial, warehouse, or production environments

o Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) AutoCAD (preferred)

Preferred

· Experience supporting touring productions, large-scale live events, or permanent installations

· Familiarity with global operations and cross-border collaboration

· OSHA 10 or 30 certification (or ability to obtain OSHA 30 upon hire)

Key Competencies

· Technical Leadership & Expertise

· Operational Planning & Execution

· Team Development & Workforce Planning

· Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Problem Solving & Decision Making

· Safety & Risk Management

· Innovation & Continuous Improvement

Physical Requirements

· Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment up to 50 pounds

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work in an active industrial environment for extended periods

· Ability to work at heights, including lifts, ladders, and elevated platforms

· Ability to handle, install, and position equipment using hands and arms

· Ability to work in varying environmental conditions (noise, dust, temperature fluctuations)

· Ability to travel and work extended or non-traditional hours as needed

Work Environment

· Onsite role based in North Las Vegas, NV

· Industrial warehouse and fabrication environment with exposure to rigging and automation systems

· Frequent interaction with shop, production, and field teams

· Occasional travel to project sites and partner locations