Automation Manufacturing Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

HumCap is recruiting an Automation Program Manager for a manufacturing client, to lead automation strategy across its Plano, TX site.
This is an owner's role, not a caretaker's. You'll shape the client's automation roadmap, build the business case for major initiatives, and carry them from concept through production — robotics, machine vision, MES, IoT, the full Industry 4.0 toolkit. You'll work across Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and IT, and your decisions will directly move the needle on productivity, quality, cost, and safety across the site.
If you want visible impact on a growing manufacturing operation — not just a seat managing someone else's plan — this is that role.

What You'll Do

• Set the roadmap. Build and drive the client's automation roadmap end to end — aligned to real business and operational goals, not automation for its own sake.
• Own programs, not tasks. Lead automation initiatives from business case through deployment and production support. Run multiple projects at once, on time, on budget, hitting performance targets.
• Find the opportunities. Spot where automation pays off — manufacturing, material handling, testing, inspection, packaging, warehouse — and make the case for it.
• Bring people with you. Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and IT to prioritize and land initiatives together.
• Choose the technology. Evaluate and select automation equipment, vendors, and system integrators.
• Push Industry 4.0 forward. Lead smart factory initiatives — data analytics, MES integration, robotics, IoT — that modernize how the site runs.
• Prove the value. Track program KPIs, ROI, productivity gains, and cost savings, and speak to them with confidence.
• Manage the risk. Lead risk assessments, change management, and resource planning across your programs.
• Make the investment case. Support capital expenditure planning and justification for automation spend.
• Keep it safe and compliant. Ensure every initiative meets safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Report up. Give leadership clear, regular updates on program status and results.
• Raise the bar. Champion continuous improvement and operational excellence across the site.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Automation, or Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
• 7+ years in manufacturing automation, industrial engineering, or operations improvement
• 3+ years leading cross-functional programs or projects
• Hands-on experience implementing automation in electronics manufacturing, EMS, PCBA, SMT, or assembly operations
• Working knowledge of robotics, PLCs, machine vision, automated inspection, conveyors, and AGVs/AMRs
• A track record managing project schedules, budgets, vendors, and capital investments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving instincts, with the stakeholder skills to bring people along
• Communication and leadership that holds up in front of executives and on the shop floor

Nice to Have

• PMP certification
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
• Experience with Industry 4.0, Smart Factory, MES, ERP, or IoT technologies
• Experience supporting new factory startups, line expansion, or manufacturing transformation
• Time inside a global manufacturing organization

Relocation & Sponsorship
Both are available for the right candidate.