Automation Manager for the Americas

Novonesis•Milwaukee, WI

6d•$145,000 - $170,000•Onsite

About The Position

Welcome to Automation Manager for the Americas where you will lead a high performing regional organization responsible for the design and execution of automation projects across multiple sites in the Americas. This role drives the deployment of scalable and standardized automation solutions that enhance operational performance, support strategic growth, and enable future‑ready factory capabilities. As a senior technical and organizational leader, the Regional Automation Manager connects technology, operations, and business strategy to ensure consistent, high‑quality delivery of automation scope within capital projects. In this role you’ll make an impact by : Lead and develop a regional team of engineers and project managers, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Define the strategic direction for the regional automation function to support organizational objectives and the broader CAPEX portfolio. Oversee the regional capital project portfolio to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget, while meeting quality and safety expectations. Manage stakeholder alignment and cross‑functional dependencies across operations, engineering, sourcing, and other business units. Directly manage automation project execution, including planning, design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and handover. Provide expert technical guidance on automation technologies and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. Oversee departmental budget management, resource allocation, and compliance with project models, policies, and procurement guidelines. Prepare clear and effective reports on project and departmental progress for leadership and stakeholders. Recruit, develop, and coach team members to build capability and support long‑term organizational needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent experience
10+ years of experience in automation systems required such as PLCs, SCADA, DCS, MES, robotics, and instrumentation (familiarity with Rockwell, Aveva SCADA, and ABB 800xA is a plus)
3+ years of management or project management
Strong background in capital project management within a processing or industrial environment.
Proven success in delivering automation projects in roles such as Project Manager, User Manager, or Subject Matter Expert.
Experience spanning IT, OT, automation, and digitalization initiatives.
Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues for diverse audiences.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships across all organizational levels and navigate cross‑functional environments effectively.

Nice To Haves

familiarity with Rockwell, Aveva SCADA, and ABB 800xA is a plus

Responsibilities

Lead and develop a regional team of engineers and project managers, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Define the strategic direction for the regional automation function to support organizational objectives and the broader CAPEX portfolio.
Oversee the regional capital project portfolio to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget, while meeting quality and safety expectations.
Manage stakeholder alignment and cross‑functional dependencies across operations, engineering, sourcing, and other business units.
Directly manage automation project execution, including planning, design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and handover.
Provide expert technical guidance on automation technologies and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Oversee departmental budget management, resource allocation, and compliance with project models, policies, and procurement guidelines.
Prepare clear and effective reports on project and departmental progress for leadership and stakeholders.
Recruit, develop, and coach team members to build capability and support long‑term organizational needs.