Automation Project Manager

jobpurpose:The Automation Project Managerwillbe responsible forleadingautomation and controls execution for major expansionand greenfield projects. This roleis responsible forthe design, integration, commissioning, and operational handover of PLCandSCADA systems supporting processing, packaging, CIP, utilities, and aseptic systems. The position is critical to achieving first-pass regulatory approval, sterility assurance, and stable commercial production.

responsibilities:

• Manage automation scope, schedule, and budgetcoordinating withOEMs, system integrators,EPC partners, andoperationsfor packaging and utilities
• Review and approve control philosophies, functional specs, network designs,and visualizations tomanage andresolve integration challenges across equipment packagesto create integrated solutionsprimarily focused on packaging and utilities
• Own SCADA architecture, deployment, and configuration, ensuring high availability, redundancy, and disaster recoveryand support integration ofSCADA systemswith PLCs, historians, MES, and enterprise systemsaligned with ISA concepts
• Define tag structures, alarming, historization, and security models
• Lead automation activitiesduring project execution throughproduction startup including development and execution of detailed automation commissioning and startup plans
• Coordinate FAT/SAT, IO checkout, loop testing, and integrated system testingincluding dry runs, mediaruns, wet runs, and first commercial production
• Lead troubleshooting during startup and early-life operations
• Ensure electronic records meet data integrity and regulatory standards (21 CFR Part 11-aligned where applicable), supporting regulatory inspections, audits, and startup readiness reviews
• Ensure complete as-built documentation, backups, and cybersecurity controlsare developed and lead transitionofsystems from project to operations ownership

skills/qualifications required:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineeringor IT(Electrical, Controls, Automation,Software,or related field)isrequired
• 5+ years of industrial automation experience,facility startup experience strongly preferred
• Experience integrating complex OEM equipment into a unified control system
• StrongproficiencywithMES, historians, SCADA, and PLCsrequired.Ignition SCADA, Allen Bradley Controls, and Canary Historianpreferred
• Must be highly organized and able to prioritize, manage time well, multitask and troubleshoot
• Strong interpersonal,oraland written communication skills
• Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment
• Prior experience in manufacturing environment isrequired, direct experience withfoodor beverageand aseptic manufacturing is preferred
  

working conditions and physical requirements:

• Factory floor as needed
• Extended hours duringvarious project phases
• On-site presencerequiredduringvarious project phases if notlocatedat project site
• Travel tootherplant,vendor and integrator sites as needed

food safety requirements:

• Notify supervision of any repairs oradjustments that are requiredthat may affect product quality or food safety.
• Understand,observe, andcomply withthe handling and usage of the color-coded container policy while in the Production Areas.
• Perform all duties necessary to meet Company, Customer and/or Government requirements/standards as prioritized by the Company.
• Ability toinitiateaction to prevent the occurrence of nonconformities relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the product, processes, quality system, or safety system.
• Identifyand record any problems relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the ingredients, processes, quality system, or safety system.
• Control further processing or delivery of nonconforming product in terms of Food Safety and Quality issues until the deficiency or unsatisfactory condition has been corrected.
• In the event ofabsence, another employee with the same skill level will assume the duties and responsibilities asrequired.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)
• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance
• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)
• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support
• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match
• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability
• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)
• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential
• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups

position location:Coopersville, MI; Webster, NY; Chicago, IL

reports to:Sr. Project Manager, Systems Integration

travel requirements:25-80%dependent on applicant's location

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