Automation Systems Engineering Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Automation Systems Engineering Manager will play a crucial role in leading the factory automation workstream for our manufacturing facility in Sumter, South Carolina. This facility is currently being constructed as a Greenfield project and will house the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicles and defense applications. This role will be responsible for overseeing implementation of technology and managing system interfaces to automate the manufacturing processes, ensuring alignment with project and operational objectives. 

eVAC Magnetics LLC is collaborating with two of the largest factory automation companies in the US. The Automation Systems Engineering Manager will work closely with these vendors on the design, testing, and implementation of production line automation systems.  This position can be located remotely, preferably in the Portland, Oregon or Southwestern Michigan area. Frequent travel to the vendor sites in Oregon and Michigan, the eVAC facility in South Carolina, and VAC Global Headquarters in Germany will be required. The position will report directly to the Project Director. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following. 

• Lead an integrated project team of 5-6 members focused on factory automation in a Greenfield environment.
• Provide support and manage the release of Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) with work package leads.
• Manage the budget and schedule for the automation portfolio.
• Handle the claim and change management.
• Manage interfaces between Manufacturing Equipment and the Execution System.
• Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of automation systems.
• Manage the relationship with external factory automation companies. 
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality assurance protocols.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate regular project meetings and provide status updates to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
• Monitor project progress and performance, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project efficiency and effectiveness.
• Other duties as assigned. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Masters degree in Electrical or Automation Engineering. 
• 5-10 years of proven experience in automation and project management, including managing projects with budgets exceeding $10 million USD.
• Extensive background in factory automation, with roles such as Customer Project Lead, Technical Sales Manager, Project Manager, or Group Lead.
• Strong technical engineering background in automation, controls, and/or electrical engineering.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience, such as commissioning automation lines.
• Proficient in project management software and tools, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication skills, including verbal de-escalation, presentation skills, and the ability to manage cross-functional teams.
• High resilience, quick perception, and a balance of technical and management skills
• Willingness to travel internationally

REQUIREMENTS: 

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

English, German beneficial 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITES

No formal direct reports

EMPLOYMENT AT WILL

This job description is intended as an outline of the duties of the position at VACUUMSCHMELZE and is subject to change by VAC from time to time.  It is NOT a contract of employment.  Employment at VAC is voluntarily entered into and is subject to termination by you or VAC AT WILL, with or without cause at any time, either party believes such action to be appropriate.