Automation Manager

CONA Services•North Cornwall Township, PA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Manager leads a team responsible for managing and maintaining the Vertique automated case-picking system. The role works cross-functionally with operations and other business functions to ensure optimal system performance and that the system and its components operate according to design. Responsibilities include establishing and executing preventative maintenance, advising on and overseeing enhancements and upgrades, and hiring, training, managing, and coordinating the technicians, contractors, processes, and applications required to maintain the system.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in engineering, mechatronics, or automation, or equivalent technical/trade school certifications.
At least 5 years of experience in industrial automation, preferably in beverage or food and beverage.
At least 5 years of experience leading, managing, and developing technical teams.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex concepts to all levels of the organization.
Skill in contractor management and project management.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and control-system documentation.
Knowledge of functional safety standards (such as ANSI, NFPA, and IEC), safety PLCs, OSHA requirements, lockout/tagout, arc-flash awareness, machine guarding, and electrical safety practices.

Nice To Haves

Experience with beverage distribution operations.
Experience with Vertique automated case-picking systems.
Experience leading automation projects from concept through commissioning.
Experience with HMI and SCADA platforms, such as Ignition.

Responsibilities

Manage and motivate technicians, mechanics, operators, and contractors by communicating company goals, safety practices, and deadlines.
Develop team members through performance management, coaching, and training.
Manage vendors and third-party contractors, including legal agreements, insurance validation, and communication of standards, policies, and safety requirements.
Serve as the primary technical liaison with Vertique/OEM representatives, integrators, vendors, and internal IT/automation support.
Implement and execute a preventative maintenance program.
Plan and schedule work through plant maintenance systems and procedures.
Perform electrical, mechanical, and security-access maintenance using internal and external resources.
Establish and manage tools, parts, and critical-spares inventory, including procuring materials and maintaining required systems and databases.
Provide technical support to operations to help ensure equipment runs at full capacity.
Manage the automation system's industrial sanitation program in compliance with corporate quality requirements.
Advise on future plans, designs, and upgrades to meet business goals and continuous-improvement expectations.
Participate in capital planning for automation improvements, major repairs, replacements, and lifecycle management.
Develop and track budgets in accordance with financial procedures and cycles.
Create and maintain procedures, standards, schematics, and other documentation to support safe and efficient system maintenance.