Automation Engineering Lead

UPS Supply Chain Solutions

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Lead Automation Engineer will influence the future of healthcare logistics operations by evaluating, designing, and implementing automation solutions. The role leads high-visibility, end-to-end projects and collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to develop scalable systems that improve operations across ambient, cold chain, and regulated distribution environments. It combines technical expertise, project leadership, and a focus on innovation. The position is based at UPS's KYLSE facility, 2240 Outer Loop, Louisville, Kentucky. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Candidates must currently be located in the same geographic location as the job or be willing to relocate themselves. The position is permanent and is listed at the Supervisor job level.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a technical field such as Engineering, Robotics, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Automation, or a related field.
At least 5 years leading automation, engineering, logistics, or distribution center implementation projects.
Experience managing projects from design and business case development through implementation.
Strong knowledge of industrial automation, material handling systems, equipment integration, and process improvement.
Proficiency in project management, data analysis, Microsoft Office, and AutoCAD.
Strong analytical, communication, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work in the United States for this employer.
Must currently be located in the same geographic location as the job or be willing to relocate.

Nice To Haves

Experience with warehouse automation technologies, including AMRs, AGVs, conveyor/sortation systems, robotic picking solutions, scanning/vision systems, put-wall technologies, and ASRS.
Knowledge of healthcare logistics and distribution operations, including cold chain, controlled substances, dangerous goods, and regulated healthcare environments.
Experience supporting healthcare-related customers such as pharmaceutical, medical device, nutraceutical, animal health, and vaccine manufacturers.
Understanding of warehouse technology platforms, including WMS, WES, and WCS.
Experience with equipment commissioning, validation, and quality assurance processes.
Strong knowledge of financial analysis, capital planning, ROI modeling, and business case development.
Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certification and/or experience.
Experience leading or supporting automation deployments across multi-site distribution networks.

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and recommend emerging automation technologies that support business growth and operational excellence.
Assess new applications for existing automation platforms and develop long-term automation roadmaps.
Maintain expertise on automation trends, best practices, and technological advancements.
Design and implement automation solutions for dedicated and multi-client distribution environments.
Lead the development of business requirements, process flows, operational workflows, equipment specifications, and facility layouts.
Support automation deployments through system configuration, testing, commissioning, and operational readiness activities.
Develop repeatable deployment methodologies and implementation standards that enable scalable growth.
Lead and support IQ/OQ/PQ validation efforts with Quality Assurance teams.
Ensure solutions meet regulatory, operational, and customer-specific requirements.
Develop validation documentation, standard operating procedures, and work instructions.
Facilitate collaboration among Operations, Engineering, IT, Quality, and external vendors to ensure successful project execution.
Lead stakeholder discussions to evaluate automation feasibility and business impact.
Manage project milestones, risks, dependencies, and resource requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
Conduct engineering studies, operational assessments, and data-driven analyses to support decision-making.
Develop capacity models, equipment strategies, performance metrics, and optimization plans.
Present recommendations, project updates, and business cases to senior leadership.
Mentor and support engineering team members through coaching, knowledge sharing, and project collaboration.
Assist with training initiatives and continuous improvement efforts across the organization.