Project Director

Job Description:Job Title: Director of Projects – Industrial Automation & Robotics (Powertrain Assembly Systems)

Job description: Join our elite team of engineers dedicated to designing and implementing cutting-edge software solutions for highly complex automation systems. The Director of Projects will lead the strategic planning, execution, and delivery of large-scale industrial automation and robotics projects, with a focus on powertrain assembly systems (engine, transmission, differential, and axle assembly lines). This role requires expertise in deploying modular, automated solutions for automotive and manufacturing clients, ensuring alignment with corporate goals, budget adherence, and client satisfaction.

Lead transformative projects for a top-tier automation integrator at the forefront of powertrain innovation. Drive sustainability in manufacturing through cutting-edge robotics and Industry 4.0 solutions while advancing your career in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Job responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Project Oversight

• Develop and execute project portfolios for powertrain assembly systems, including high-mix production lines for hybrid/electric and internal combustion engine components.
• Manage a portfolio size of $150M
• Align project objectives with company financial and operational strategies, leveraging standardized automation modules for scalability.
• Oversee $10M projects from design to commissioning, ensuring compliance with ISO, safety, and machine tool build standards
• Financial & Resource ManagementCreate and manage project budgets, optimizing resource allocation across engineering, procurement, and field teams.
• Implement risk mitigation plans to avoid cost overruns, utilizing tools
• Assist in negotiating contracts with suppliers and subcontractors for robotics, PLCs, and vision-guided systems.
• Team Leadership & Cross-Functional CoordinationLead a team of project managers, engineers, and technical staff, fostering innovation in automation design and process optimization.
• Lead lessons learned initiatives across all functions of project execution.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales, and operations to integrate emerging technologies (e.g., AI-driven robotics, IoT-enabled monitoring) into project workflows.
• Mentor junior staff and establish KPIs for on-time delivery (>95%) and client satisfaction.
• Client & Stakeholder EngagementServe as the primary liaison for key customer accounts, presenting progress reports to C-suite stakeholders and addressing technical/commercial changes.
• Manage reviews & analyses to refine processes and drive continuous improvement in execution throughput.
• Risk Management & ComplianceIdentify technical risks (e.g., equipment interoperability, software integration) and implement recovery plans.
• Identify revenue risks based on scope, budget & timeline shifts.
• Support compliance initiatives with OSHA, NEC, and regional regulations for automated manufacturing environments.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or related field. A masters/MBA will be desirable but not essential.
• Experience: 10 years in industrial automation project management, including 5 years in powertrain assembly systems (engine/transmission lines, differential assembly, or axle production).
• Technical Skills:
• Experience in managing schedules /budgets /performance for large assembly system projects
• Understanding of PLC based systems, robotic cell design (Fanuc/ABB), and CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies (digital twins, predictive maintenance).
• Leadership: Proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams of 20 members across global projects.

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience with automated engine, transmission & powertrain assembly projects.
• Experience with battery pack assembly lines for electric vehicles
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma
• Experience working with cross-geography multicultural & cross functional teams

Reports to: VP Operations / CEO