Head of Automation Project Management

Senior Project Manager - Machine Automation & Manufacturing Operations
Salary : Up to $135,000 + Bonus
Type : Full-Time | Direct Hire
We are seeking a Senior Project Manager with a strong background in manufacturing and machine automation to lead complex, high-impact projects within a highly engineered production environment.
This role is heavily focused on machine automation, production equipment, manufacturing operations, and process improvement - not IT infrastructure or software implementation projects. The company designs, builds, and supports much of its own automated manufacturing equipment in-house, making this an excellent fit for someone who has managed automation projects on the plant floor.
This is a hands-on operational leadership role where you'll work closely with engineering, manufacturing, automation, and production teams to drive projects from concept through implementation and production launch.
Lead multiple concurrent projects tied to machine automation, manufacturing equipment, and production operations
Manage full project lifecycles for automated machinery and manufacturing process improvements
Partner closely with Engineering and Operations teams on in-house machine automation systems
Drive automation-related initiatives involving production lines, equipment upgrades, tooling, and operational efficiency
Oversee project schedules, budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful execution
Coordinate cross-functional teams including Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Automation, Maintenance, and Supply Chain
Support facility expansion and manufacturing capacity projects
Identify production bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the manufacturing operation
Provide leadership updates regarding automation project status, risks, and implementation timelines
7+ years of Project Management experience within a manufacturing, industrial, or machine automation environment
~ Strong experience managing projects involving:

• Manufacturing equipment
• Automated production systems
• Robotics or controls-driven equipment
• Capital equipment or production machinery

Experience working directly with plant operations, manufacturing engineering, or automation teams
Background in companies that design/build/customize their own manufacturing equipment is highly preferred
Proven ability to lead complex manufacturing projects in fast-paced production environments
Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to drive projects cross-functionally
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field preferred
Lead impactful machine automation projects in a growing manufacturing environment
Work closely with engineering and production teams on highly customized automated systems
High-visibility role with direct influence on manufacturing operations and production growth
Competitive compensation up to $135K + bonus + strong benefits package
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.
As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.
He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.
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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place.