Engineering Manager (Smart Manufacturing & Automation)

IMPORTANT: In order to be considered for this position, please complete our aplicant survey at the following link:

We will not be able to accept applications without a completed survey.

Full-Time | Remote with Travel | Must be located within easy driving distance of Central Ohio | 100% Employee-Owned

Are you someone who thrives at the intersection of people leadership and technical delivery? Do you enjoy developing engineers, solving complex problems, and delivering high-impact solutions for clients? At Polaris Automation, you’ll lead both people and projects that directly shape the future of smart manufacturing.

Who We Are

Polaris Automation is a fast-growing, 100% employee-owned smart manufacturing partner helping manufacturers improve quality, efficiency, and productivity. We deliver advanced control systems, MES and batch solutions, and cutting-edge digital transformation technologies.

The Role

We’re looking for an experienced engineering leader to develop and guide a team of engineers delivering smart manufacturing and automation solutions for our clients.

What You’ll Do

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers
• Provide performance feedback, coaching, and career development support
• Allocate engineers across projects to optimize team effectiveness
• Ensure adherence to company standards, processes, and best practices

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical expertise and guidance on automation and controls projects
• Serve as a technical resource on bids and proposals
• Interface with internal teams including Business Development, Manufacturing, and Operations
• Create and review technical documentation to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Support on-site startup and commissioning activities, both locally and remotely

Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure deliverables meet quality standards and client expectations
• Support safe execution of work in collaboration with safety leadership
• Contribute to improving internal processes, tools, and best practices

What Success Looks Like

• Your team consistently delivers high-quality work on time and within scope
• Engineers on your team are growing and engaged
• Clients are satisfied and coming back

What You Bring

• 7+ years of experience in engineering, automation, or a related technical field
• Proven experience leading both people and projects
• PLC programming experience
• On-site startup experience, both local and non-local
• Experience working in client-facing environments
• Strong communication skills and leadership presence
• Ability to manage competing priorities across multiple projects

Bonus Points For

• Experience with SCADA, MES, or industrial data environments
• Background in controls engineering or software delivery
• Ignition platform experience

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• 100% employee-owned: we think and act like owners
• Real autonomy and trust
• High-impact work with cutting-edge technologies
• Strong team culture with low turnover
• Growth opportunities in a scaling company

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (day 1)
• Company-paid life insurance
• Company-funded Health Reimbursement Account
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) with up to 6% match
• Wellness programs and gym membership reimbursement
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible schedule and remote work
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Mental health and wellbeing benefits

IMPORTANT: In order to be considered for this position, please complete our aplicant survey at the following link:

We will not be able to accept applications without a completed survey.