Operational Technology Leader

Relocation Assistance Offered Within Country Job Number #173151 – Topeka, Kansas, United States Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Accordingly, all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full‑time basis and must not require the Company’s sponsorship to continue to work legally in the United States. Role Summary Developing the future of digital manufacturing starts with you. As the Operational Technology Leader, you will architect the site’s digital transformation by bridging the gap between industrial automation and data‑driven performance. You are the primary subject matter expert overseeing the convergence of plant floor systems and secure network infrastructure. By leading high‑impact technology projects, you ensure our operations deliver premium nutrition to pets everywhere while meeting global integration standards. Responsibilities Strategic OT Management: Lead and execute manufacturing system projects across areas of plant floor systems, PLC control, devices and instrumentation, and networking, from conception to completion. Enforce standards that ensure global consistency of manufacturing and integration systems. Automation & Controls Execution: Use technical skills including PLC /Archestra programming, HMI screen development, and data acquisition/analytics to integrate and improve automation and manufacturing system projects. Infrastructure & Security: Manage the configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of OT network infrastructure, ensuring cybersecurity integrity and reliable performance of plant floor control systems. Leadership & Partnership: Supervise OT resources and establish strong relationships with plant leadership, engineering, and global Manufacturing System, Automation, and IT teams. Participate in local plant meetings to provide updates on project performance. Continuous Improvement: Analyze system performance to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency improvements, and cost savings. Utilize Factory Performance & Reliability (FP&R) tools to deliver operational excellence. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field 5+ years of experience in plant floor systems, integration, and automation controls within a manufacturing environment Demonstrated expertise in Allen‑Bradley PLCs, Wonderware (Archestra, MES, InTouch), and Microsoft SQL Server Previous experience in people leadership or managing internal/external technical resources Preferred Qualifications Experience in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) or pet food manufacturing Advanced knowledge of Aveva system platform or similar (MES, SCADA, ERP Integration) Advanced knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server Advanced knowledge of IT/OT network design (Cisco, Industrial Ethernet) Familiarity with cybersecurity protocols specifically for industrial control systems Strong understanding of Factory Performance & Reliability (FP&R) and Operational Excellence metrics Compensation and Benefits Salary Range $115,000.00 – $150,000.00 USD Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit‑sharing, and long‑term incentives for Executive‑level roles. Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/ PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee’s hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies. Our Commitment to Inclusion Our journey begins with our people‑developing strong talent with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to best serve our consumers around the world and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual can be their authentic self, is treated with respect, and is empowered by leadership to contribute meaningfully to our business. Equal Opportunity Employer Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. 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