Automation Engineering Manager

Job Title:            Automation Manager FLSA Status:     Exempt - Salaried Group:               Regular – Full Time Reports To:       Vice President of Engineering Department:      Engineering Location:           Houston, TX     About Cooper Machinery Services: Cooper Machinery Services provides natural gas compression equipment and services to customers globally in the Oil & Gas, Power, Transportation, and Marine sectors. With a proud heritage dating back to 1833, Cooper Machinery Services is the OEM for legendary product lines including Cooper-Bessemer™, Ajax™, Superior™, Gemini, TSI, CSI, Enterprise, and Joy. Headquartered in Houston, TX, but with commercial and services hubs around the world, Cooper Machinery Services provides world-class services to more than 22,000 units in its installed base. Our strength is our people. Each employee plays an integral role in our success and growth. With a commitment to our vision that strong relationships drive strong results and better business, our people make Cooper Machinery Services legendary.     Job Overview: We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Electrical, Controls, and Automation Engineering Manager to oversee all aspects of electrical, controls, and automation engineering for engines and compressors. This includes specifying, designing, configuring, testing, and managing hardware and software development for control systems. The role requires providing technical expertise in automation, controls, and electrical equipment within compressor stations while supporting the company’s strategic goal to grow its automation business. The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading the automation team, collaborating with the broader engineering organization, and driving innovation in control systems. This role also includes recruiting and staffing top talent to support the company’s growth and maintain excellence in engineering services.     Key Responsibilities   Engineering Leadership Oversee all aspects of electrical, controls, and automation engineering, including specification, design, configuration, testing, and manufacturing oversight. Serve as the technical expert for automation, controls, and electrical equipment in compressor station operations. Build and manage a high-performing team of engineers to address current and future business needs, ensuring the team has the necessary skills and expertise. Develop and implement engineering standards, processes, and best practices to improve system reliability, efficiency, and scalability. Strategic Development Partner with the Vice President of Engineering and other leadership to align the automation strategy with organizational goals, focusing on business growth, innovation, and operational excellence. Recruit, hire, and onboard talent to meet the demands of the expanding automation business. Develop and execute a roadmap for automation business growth, including exploring new technologies, market opportunities, and partnerships. Design and Development Lead the design and implementation of control systems (PLCs, SCADA, HMIs) for engines and compressors, ensuring seamless integration with other systems. Specify, design, and test hardware and software for automation systems, ensuring alignment with industry standards and safety regulations. Oversee the development of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts. Project Oversight and Collaboration Manage the installation and commissioning of automation systems, ensuring successful deployment and customer satisfaction. Work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, operations, and software engineers, to ensure cohesive system designs. Serve as the primary point of contact for automation-related technical inquiries, both internally and externally. Continuous Improvement and Innovation Identify opportunities to enhance automation and controls processes, focusing on continuous improvement in performance and efficiency. Stay updated on emerging technologies and industry trends to drive innovation within automation and control systems. Provide training and mentorship to team members, fostering a culture of learning and development.    Qualifications   Education and Experience Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field. 10 years of experience in electrical, controls, and automation engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Proven expertise in engines, compressors, or related industrial equipment. Experience in recruiting, managing, and developing engineering talent. Technical Skills Proficiency in designing and implementing PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Modicon). Strong knowledge of hardware and software design for control systems. Proficiency in electrical CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN). Familiarity with industry standards such as IEC, NEC, and ISA. Strong troubleshooting skills for electrical and control systems. Soft Skills Exceptional leadership, communication, and team management abilities. Strategic thinking with the ability to align technical efforts with business goals. Strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.   Preferred Qualifications Experience with engines and compressors in industrial applications (e.g., oil and gas, power generation, or manufacturing). Knowledge of IoT integration, predictive maintenance, and advanced analytics. Familiarity with hazardous area classifications and explosion-proof systems. Understanding of energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives in industrial systems.   Competencies:  Safety focused  Service-oriented  Business focused  A self-starter  Dependable  Strong teamwork skills  Results oriented   Sense of urgency    Cooper Machinery Services is an equal opportunity employer and gives all qualified applicants consideration of employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, any other characteristic protected by law.