Molding Automation Manager

 

Summary of Position:
Responsible for leading a team of engineers and technicians to design, develop, and implement automated systems supporting high precision injection molding operations within the organization. The manager will be responsible for enhancing molding efficiency, productivity, and quality through automation solutions while aligning with business goals and compliance standards.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (other duties as assigned):
Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of automation engineers, providing guidance on project execution, technical challenges, and career development.
• Recruit, train, and evaluate the performance of team members.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative engineering culture focused on problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Automation Strategy & Planning:

• Develop and implement strategic molding automation roadmaps aligned with organizational goals.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams (engineering, operations, IT, quality, etc.) to identify automation needs and opportunities to improve mold floor capacity, safety, efficiency, cost, and product quality.
• Lead the assessment, selection, and integration of new automation technologies and tools.
• Identify and evaluate potential automation integrators and supply partners, with a focus on their abilities to rapidly deliver effective automated systems and solutions.

Project Management:

• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of automation projects within budget, timeline, and quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements throughout project lifecycles.
• Manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies for automation implementations.
• Promote and develop effective project management skills within the Molding Automation team

Technical Expertise & Support:

• Provide technical leadership in the design and deployment of automation systems, including robotics, machine vision, end of arm tooling, and controls to support a high volume, high mix, dynamic molding floor. Systems to include material handling, part inspection, packaging, and secondary operations.
• Lead troubleshooting and problem-solving efforts for complex automation issues.
• Remain current on industry trends and advancements, and ensure the team adopts best practices in automation engineering.

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement:

• Analyze current molding processes to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for automation.
• Lead initiatives for continuous improvement, implementing Lean and Six Sigma principles in molding automation projects.
• Monitor and measure the impact of automation on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as productivity, cost savings, and downtime reduction.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:

• Communicate effectively with executive leadership, project stakeholders, and external partners on automation strategies, progress, and outcomes.
• Prepare and present reports, proposals, and project updates to senior management and other departments.

Education and Skill Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• 5+ years of experience in high tolerance, precision injection molding, with a focus on processing, tooling, material handling, inspection, and packaging.
• Expert in production automation systems, including robotics, end of arm tooling, vision systems, PLC programming, HMI, SCADA, sensors, control systems and guarding.
• Proven experience in managing multiple concurrent automation projects from concept to completion.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated strength in leadership, communication, and team building skills.
• Strong project management skills including budgeting, scheduling, resource planning, and reporting.
• Less than 20% travel required

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit to operate a computer. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is normal.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation with shift differential
• Minimum of 4 weeks PTO for all team members
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
• Collaborative, employee-centric culture focused on innovation and growth
• Opportunities for professional development and continued education

US Conec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.