Job Description

Automation Project Manager

Position Overview

As a Project Manager specializing in custom automation equipment, you will be the central force driving projects from concept to completion. Your role is to ensure that every project meets customer expectations, stays within budget, and is delivered on time—while maintaining crystal-clear communication across all stakeholders. You will serve as both the Voice-of-Engineering and the Voice-of-Customer (VOE), translating technical capabilities and limitations into actionable insights for sales teams and customers. Your ability to balance technical accuracy with customer empathy will be key to your success.

This position requires close collaboration with engineering, production, service, purchasing, accounting, and sales teams. You’ll be responsible for defining and maintaining project scopes, managing timelines and budgets, and ensuring that all parties are aligned through fast, effective, and transparent communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver custom automation solutions that meet customer specifications and internal quality standards.
• Communicate clearly and accurately with sales teams and customers regarding the capabilities, limitations, and performance expectations of custom machinery.
• Act as the Voice-of-Engineering, ensuring technical integrity and feasibility are upheld throughout the project lifecycle.
• Act as the Voice-of-Customer, advocating for customer needs and translating them into engineering and production requirements.
• Manage project scope, schedule, and budget with precision, using advanced project management tools.
• Maintain comprehensive order summaries and ensure all documentation reflects current project status.
• Provide strategic guidance to purchasing for sourcing ancillary equipment aligned with project goals.
• Ensure continuous alignment between internal departments and customer-facing teams.
• Deliver regular updates to customers via phone, email, and in-person meetings, ensuring transparency and trust.

Additional Responsibilities

• Champion the company’s Value Proposition in every customer interaction.
• Represent the company at industry trade shows and events.
• Stay current with industry trends and technologies through ongoing training and development.
• Maintain and optimize production schedules to support project efficiency and throughput.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in engineering, automation, or a related technical field.
• 3–5 years of proven project management experience, ideally in custom automation or high-speed machinery.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems in automated equipment.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, customer-friendly language.