Director of Automation & Controls
Director of Automation
Location: Remote (travel ~ 50%)
Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing
Title: Director of Automation & Controls
Overview
DSJ Global is partnering with a nationally recognized leader in the food and beverage manufacturing sector, known for its innovation, operational excellence, and commitment to continuous improvement. As the organization expands its automation capabilities, we are seeking an accomplished engineering leader to shape and drive the automation strategy across a highly advanced production environment.
The Director of Automation will serve as the strategic and technical leader for all plant automation initiatives, overseeing the design, integration, optimization, and governance of advanced manufacturing systems. This role requires deep expertise in industrial controls, leadership of multi‑disciplinary engineering teams, and the ability to drive large‑scale automation projects that elevate operational performance across multiple production lines.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Technical Vision
- Develop and execute the automation strategy for the entire facility, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and long‑term operational goals.
- Lead modernization initiatives including migration from legacy systems to advanced, scalable automation platforms.
- Establish automation standards, engineering practices, and system lifecycle governance across the plant.
- Provide strategic guidance on capital planning related to automation, controls, robotics, and instrumentation.
Automation Systems Architecture
- Oversee development, enhancement, and integration of PLC‑based control systems (primarily Rockwell Allen-Bradley; multi‑platform experience a plus).
- Set standards for programming, change management, cybersecurity, and system documentation.
- Architect plant‑wide communication and network infrastructures (Ethernet/IP, industrial VLANs, device networks, data collection systems).
- Drive automation-driven process improvements, focusing on uptime, throughput, quality, and labor efficiency.
Innovation, Integration & Emerging Technologies
- Evaluate, recommend, and implement new automation technologies such as robotics, machine vision, IIoT, SCADA expansion, and high‑speed controls.
- Guide integration of plant automation systems with enterprise IT, MES, and data platforms.
- Lead automation readiness assessments for new product launches or major equipment installations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred).
- 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or process automation.
- 5+ years in engineering leadership or multi‑site technical management.
- Advanced proficiency with Rockwell Allen Bradley PLCs, motion systems, VFDs, industrial networking, and automation architectures.
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