Director of Automation & Controls

Director of Automation & Controls
Location: Monroe, LA – This position requires traveling 50% of the time.

As the  Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across various disciplines to develop reliable, scalable, and secure industrial systems that boost productivity and quality.

The Director also supports plant-level processes through troubleshooting, solutions identification, maintenance, and programming. Strong collaboration with plant teams is vital.
Additionally, the Director provides input on plant design for both greenfield and brownfield projects from an automation perspective.

Why join Drax?

At Drax, we’re not just generating power; we’re transforming it. We’re a diverse and committed team, working together to create a brighter, more sustainable future. When you join us, you’ll find:

• A Clear Purpose: Be part of a company at the forefront of sustainable energy, making a real difference for the planet and our communities.
• Growth Opportunities: We believe in developing our people.
• Comprehensive Benefits: From day one, you’ll receive competitive wages, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and an RRSP matching plan to support your financial goals. You’ll also participate in a company bonus plan that rewards overall Drax performance and safety.
• A Supportive Team: Work in an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, and your contributions are valued. We’re a ‘can-do’ kind of place, empowering you to make informed decisions and do the right thing.

Your Day-to-Day as a Director of Automation & Controls.
Key Accountabilities:

Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement an automation strategy aligned with business goals.
• Manage and mentor a team of Automation Engineers, an OT Network Engineer, and an Electrical Engineer.
• Establish engineering standards and foster a culture of innovation. 

Automation & Control Systems 

• Oversee the design and commissioning of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Ensure standardization of platforms and documentation.
• Drive modernization efforts, including Industry 4.0 and IoT initiatives.
• Support capital projects from conception to startup.

Operational Support & Reliability

• Ensure high performance of automation systems in production.
• Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot and resolve system issues.
• Implement preventive maintenance and manage equipment obsolescence. 

OT Network & Cybersecurity 

• Oversee industrial network reliability and compliance with cybersecurity standards.
• Lead risk assessments for industrial control systems. 

Project Management 

• Manage multiple automation projects, ensuring timely and budget-friendly delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage external vendors. 

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure automation systems meet safety and regulatory standards.
• Support EHS initiatives to promote safe automated equipment operations. 

What you’ll bring:
To excel in this vital role, you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Control Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation, or related field
• Over 10 years of automation experience in forestry or manufacturing
• 5+ years in a leadership role within an automation team
• Strong experience with PLCs (Rockwell, Siemens), HMIs, SCADA, and communication protocols
• Knowledge of industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus)
• Proficient in electrical programming, troubleshooting, and sensor operations
• Familiarity with OT cybersecurity principles
• Experience with robotics and digital transformation initiative
• Awareness of manufacturing technology trends and their application
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Capable of managing multiple projects with competing priorities
• Proficient in personal computers and business applications

How we act at Drax:
Our culture is built on a few core beliefs that guide everything we do:

We care about what matters: We support each other to achieve important goals.
We’re a can-do kind of place: We’re empowered to make informed decisions and do what’s right.
We see things differently: We share insights, search for new ideas, and innovate.
We listen carefully: We ensure everyone feels heard and valued.
We do what we say we’ll do: We are proactive, committed, and reliable.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply today to help Drax discover the talented individuals we need to drive this change. A career at Drax is more than just a job—it’s a chance to make a difference.

Curious to learn more about us? We recommend you connect with us on LinkedIn for more insights.

The Drax Talent Acquisition team will never use third-party apps to make job offers. The recruitment process with Drax will always include at least one face-to-face interview, either in person or via an online video call, as well as several phone conversations. Drax will never ask you to download apps to enter timesheet details or ask you to purchase your own IT equipment. If you have any concerns during your recruitment process or suspect something isn’t right, please contact us via View email address on apply.j-vers.com to verify the application or details of the person you have been speaking to.