Fort Smith, AR, 72916
Job description
Automation & Controls Engineering Manager
Location: Fort Smith, AR
Salary: $100,000-130,000
Overview
The Automation & Controls Engineering Manager is responsible for spearheading plant automation, control systems, and electrical capabilities to ensure safe, dependable, and efficient manufacturing processes. This position will oversee automation initiatives, manage Automation Technicians, assist maintenance and operations teams, and promote continuous improvements via reliability and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership in automation, controls, and electrical engineering to support manufacturing processes.
- Oversee capital projects related to automation from the conception stage through to execution.
- Manage and mentor a team of Automation Technicians, including task assignment, scheduling, and skill development.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot issues related to PLCs, HMIs, drives, and other industrial control systems.
- Support maintenance and operational teams in enhancing equipment reliability and conducting root cause analysis.
- Create and implement automation strategies, develop control system standards, and drive equipment enhancements.
- Educate maintenance and operational staff on various automation technologies.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives, predictive maintenance strategies, and cost-saving measures.
- Ensure adherence to safety protocols, reliability systems, and Management of Change (MOC) standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant field experience.
- A minimum of 5 years in automation and controls engineering within a manufacturing setting.
- Proven experience in leading automation or capital project initiatives.
- In-depth knowledge of Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, motors, drives, and industrial control systems.
- Proficient in troubleshooting electrical and automation systems.
- Familiarity with OSHA, NFPA, ANSI guidelines, TPM principles, and maintenance best practices.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, project management, and organizational abilities.
- Flexibility to provide support during off-shift hours, as well as on weekends or holidays when required.
- Previous experience in a supervisory role is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in process controls, electrical distribution within facilities, and equipment selection.
- Familiarity with systems such as Ignition, IP21, Wonderware, and upgrades for PLC/HMI.
- Understanding of 480V industrial electrical systems.
- TPM training or hands-on experience is preferred.
STEMHUNTER is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We comply with all applicable equal employment opportunity and affirmative action regulations.
