Technical Project/Program Manager- Automation (E3)

Applied Materials•Austin, TX

1d•$104,000 - $143,000

About The Position

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. We are seeking a Technical Project/Program Manager to join the Automation Technology Group. In this role, you will lead cross-functional projects that enable automation, process improvement, and operational excellence in our manufacturing operations. You’ll be responsible for managing the end-to-end lifecycle of automation projects — from requirements gathering and vendor coordination to implementation, testing, and handoff to production. This role requires strong technical acumen, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple complex projects involving both internal teams and external partners.

Requirements

Strong understanding of manufacturing automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, MES, and/or IoT technologies
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Works on issues where analysis of situation or data requires review of relevant factors
Demonstrates in-depth and/or breadth of expertise in own discipline and broad knowledge of other disciplines within the function
Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., PMP, Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall).
Ability to align automation, control, and data connectivity strategies with business goals and objectives.
Experience in analyzing business processes to identify automation and control opportunities.
Understanding of industry-specific regulations and compliance requirements.
Capability to assess the financial trade-offs when designing and selecting automation, control, and data connectivity projects.
Provide technical guidance and support to team members.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the automation, control, and data connectivity team.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve automation, control, and data connectivity issues.
Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex automation, control, and data connectivity challenges.
Enhance operational efficiency and productivity through effective automation, control, and data connectivity solutions.
Reduce manual intervention and human error in critical processes.
Contribute to the overall success of the organization by driving automation, control, and data connectivity initiatives.
Excellent communication skills to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Adaptability to changing project requirements and priorities.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of automation projects across multiple manufacturing sites.
Define project scope, goals, and deliverables in collaboration with engineering, operations, IT, and other stakeholders.
Coordinate cross-functional teams including controls engineers, mechanical engineers, software developers, and operations.
Track and manage timelines, budgets, resources, risks, and dependencies across all phases of the project lifecycle.
Work closely with automation vendors and system integrators to ensure on-time, high-quality deliverables.
Facilitate design reviews, FAT/SAT testing, and commissioning of automation equipment and systems.
Develop and maintain project documentation including project charters, schedules, risk registers, and status reports.
Champion continuous improvement by applying lean, Six Sigma, or Agile principles to project execution.
Support validation, change management, and documentation processes in compliance with industry and company standards.
Communicate project progress and risks to stakeholders and senior leadership.