Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager

Manufacturing Automation Engineering ManagerLocation: Westminster, MDJob Type: Full-TimePay Range: $145,000–$150,000 annuallyPosition OverviewM Force Partners is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager to lead industrial automation, manufacturing process optimization, and engineering operations at a manufacturing facility in Westminster, MD. This leadership position is responsible for improving manufacturing efficiency through advanced automation technologies, robotics integration, optimized production processes, and the development of high-performing technical teams.The Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager will oversee Process Engineers and Setup Technicians while providing hands-on technical leadership in PLC programming, industrial robotics, automated controls, and custom manufacturing equipment. The position supports both low-volume and high-volume manufacturing operations, with an emphasis on transforming manual processes into efficient, scalable automated systems.The ideal Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager brings at least eight years of experience in industrial automation, process engineering, or manufacturing engineering, along with proven leadership experience. This individual must be comfortable working directly with production equipment while managing engineering projects, developing technical personnel, and implementing long-term operational improvements.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of Process Engineers and Setup TechniciansDirect industrial automation initiatives to improve manufacturing productivity, equipment reliability, product quality, and workplace safetyIdentify opportunities to automate manual manufacturing processes and reduce operational inefficienciesDevelop and implement automation strategies for both high-volume and low-volume manufacturing environmentsProvide hands-on technical expertise in PLC programming, industrial robotics, sensors, actuators, and automated control systemsOversee the design, installation, commissioning, and optimization of automated manufacturing equipmentIntegrate new automation technologies into existing production lines and manufacturing operationsCoordinate the implementation of equipment and engineering solutions developed by other facilities within the organizationLead the development and fabrication of custom tooling, fixtures, jigs, and automated workstationsManage engineering projects from initial concept through installation, testing, and production implementationEstablish project scopes, schedules, budgets, technical requirements, and performance objectivesCollaborate with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Research and Development teams to improve manufacturing processesSupport new product introductions by developing efficient manufacturing methods and equipment requirementsInvestigate equipment failures, production inefficiencies, and manufacturing quality concerns through root cause analysisImplement corrective actions to improve equipment performance, process stability, and operational efficiencyAnalyze manufacturing performance metrics to identify opportunities for cost reduction, increased throughput, and improved qualityEstablish and maintain engineering documentation, equipment setup procedures, and technical operating standardsSupport technical training programs to improve employee capabilities in equipment operation, troubleshooting, and process controlEnsure manufacturing processes and automated systems comply with applicable safety requirements and industry standardsPromote continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and engineering operationsWork directly with production personnel to troubleshoot technical challenges and implement practical engineering solutionsTravel domestically and occasionally internationally to support engineering initiatives and equipment implementationRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering disciplineMinimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation, process engineering, or manufacturing engineeringProven leadership experience managing engineering teams, technical personnel, or manufacturing support functionsStrong hands-on experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), industrial robotics, and automated control systemsExperience working with industrial sensors, actuators, automation hardware, and manufacturing control softwareDemonstrated success converting manual manufacturing operations into automated production processesExperience developing and implementing complete industrial automation solutionsStrong knowledge of manufacturing process design, equipment integration, and production optimizationExperience designing or implementing custom tooling, fixtures, automated workstations, or specialized manufacturing equipmentAbility to troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and automated manufacturing systemsExperience managing engineering projects, including budgets, schedules, technical requirements, and implementationStrong analytical skills with experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actionsAbility to interpret manufacturing performance data and identify opportunities for operational improvementExcellent leadership, communication, and team development skillsAbility to collaborate effectively with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering departmentsStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple engineering priorities and deadlinesAbility to exercise independent judgment and make informed technical and operational decisionsComfortable working directly on the manufacturing floor and providing hands-on technical supportAbility to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentWillingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationallyPreferred QualificationsExperience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologiesHands-on robotic programming experience with FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or Universal Robots (UR)Experience supporting both high-volume and low-volume manufacturing operationsBackground integrating modern automation technology into existing manufacturing equipment and legacy production systemsExperience improving manufacturing throughput, cycle times, equipment utilization, and process efficiencyKnowledge of automated assembly systems, robotic workcells, and industrial machine controlsExperience leading manufacturing automation projects involving multiple departments or facilitiesFamiliarity with new product introduction (NPI) processes and manufacturing engineering supportExperience implementing standardized engineering processes and technical documentationDemonstrated success developing engineering teams and supporting technical employee trainingWork Environment & Travel RequirementsManufacturing-based leadership position located in Westminster, MDRegular interaction with production personnel, engineering teams, and manufacturing equipmentHands-on involvement with industrial automation systems, robotics, and manufacturing processesAbility to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environmentCollaboration with technical and nontechnical teams across manufacturing operationsDomestic travel and occasional international travel requiredConsistent attendance and reliability are essential to the positionJob presented by M Force PartnersM Force Partners is a specialized recruitment partner connecting top-tier talent with leading organizations. With a deep understanding of engineering/technical, medical, professional and executive disciplines and industry demands, we deliver tailored recruitment solutions, including direct hire and contract placements, to ensure the right fit for both candidates and clients.If this role isn't the right fit for you, we encourage you to explore our other opportunities at mforcepartners.com.Do you know someone who may be a great match? Feel free to share this opportunity within your network.Equal Opportunity EmployerM Force Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.