Sr. Team Leader (Automation) - Pella, IA

Pella Corporation•Pella, IA

39d

About The Position

The Senior Team Leader (Automation) acts as a recognized authority leading advancing critical I4.0 intelligent operation automation technologies. This role ensures solutions are delivered with business impact, establishes engineering standards, and influences senior leadership decisions. Identifies, develops, and commercializes advanced automated technologies that are highly impactful to the business. This includes collaboration with vendors and engineers to define product requirements, design concepts, prototype, develop programs, debug, test, and provide post-release support. Develops estimates for time, cost, and quality for projects. Develop software to integrate IT systems with manufacturing controls

Requirements

BS in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; MS strongly preferred.
Proven ability to influence technical direction and senior stakeholders.
Expertise with PLC/HMI/SCADA platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Ignition, etc.)
Working knowledge of database systems, networks, APIs, and system interfaces between plant floor and IT/MES/ERP systems.
Demonstrated ability to develop or configure user interfaces for operator interaction, including traditional HMI/SCADA or modern low-code visualization environments.
Expertise in project management and systems integration.
Recognized as a subject matter expert in one or more domains.

Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems, including new and existing production equipment.
Integrate IT systems with industrial control systems such as PLCs, HMI/SCADA, CNCs, robotics, motion controllers, and data platforms.
Perform system debugging, troubleshooting, and optimization to ensure operational reliability and performance.
Develop technical specifications, design concepts, prototypes, testing protocols, and post-release production support for automation solutions.
Ensure safe equipment and system operation, in alignment with corporate safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Serve as a technical authority and advisor for automation strategy, control systems architecture, and technology selection.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners (Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, IT, Product/Process Engineering, and suppliers) to define requirements and deliver solutions.
Lead vendor engagement, RFQ processes, equipment evaluation, and acceptance testing.
Provide cost, scope, timing, and quality estimates for automation projects; ensure projects meet business case expectations.
Drive continuous improvement through lean, 3P events, kaizen, and standard work enablement.
Provide technical coaching, mentorship, and training to engineers, technicians, and plant teams.
Communicate progress, risks, and solution recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.