Director of Manufacturing Automation

nVent • Saint Louis Park, MN

84d • $172,900 - $256,880

About The Position

We’re looking for people who put their innovation to work to advance our success – and their own. Join an organization that ensures a more secure world through connecting and protecting our customers with inventive electrical solutions. We are seeking a visionary leader to drive the transformation of our global manufacturing operations through automation and digitalization. As Director of Manufacturing Automation, you will lead the strategy, design, and implementation of advanced automation technologies across our manufacturing, assembly, packaging, and distribution processes. This role is ideal for a dynamic leader with deep technical expertise and a passion for innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (Master’s preferred in Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Design).
• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing automation and transformation.
• Proven success leading global teams and large-scale automation initiatives.
• Expertise in robotics, mechatronics, AI, IoT, and vision systems.
• Deep knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies, automation systems, data analytics, and lean manufacturing.
• Strong analytical, project management, and interpersonal skills.
• Lean Six Sigma knowledge preferred.
• Ability to travel approximately 25%, domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive automation strategy aligned with enterprise goals.
• Collaborate to assess current capabilities and define future-state automation roadmaps.
• Identify and implement modern automation solutions including robotics, AI, IoT, and human-machine interfaces.
• Lead feasibility studies, business case development, and project execution tracking.
• Stay ahead of emerging technologies and assess their potential impact.
• Propose implementation approaches considering cost-efficiency, scalability, and alignment with strategic goals.
• Lead the design, programming, and implementation of automation systems incorporating PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and visual solutions.
• Secure seamless blending of automation with ERP, MES, and quality systems.
• Lead multi-functional teams in the execution of automation projects from concept through commissioning.
• Lead capital budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships for automation initiatives.
• Find opportunities for automation in existing processes to reduce cycle time, improve quality, and lower costs.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
• Develop and lead a team of automation engineers, controls specialists, and technicians.
• Provide mentorship, training, and development to build internal automation capabilities.
• Drive data-driven decision-making through advanced analytics and real-time monitoring.
• Uncover and implement process improvements to elevate efficiency and minimize inefficiencies.
• Anticipate and mitigate risks associated with automation deployment.
• Support assessments of operational technology risks and automation maturity levels.
• Define and track KPIs to measure the impact of automation initiatives on efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Continuously refine strategies based on performance insights.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans along with flexible spending accounts.
• Short-term and long-term disability benefits.
• Critical illness, accident insurance and life insurance.
• A 401(k) retirement plan and an employee stock purchase plan — both include a company match.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Caregiver, personal and parental leave.
• Back-up care services.
• Paid time off including volunteer time.
• A well-being program.
• Legal & identity theft protection.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree