Head of Automation

Airbus; Prestwick; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Join Airbus as the Head of Automation, pivotal in deploying automated solutions for aircraft manufacturing in Prestwick. You will lead a team of automation professionals, manage significant capital projects, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, driving innovation and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in automation and team management.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholders pragmatically.
• Proficient in digital and data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Assembly Automation Team and drive automation projects.
• Manage major capital investment projects over €5M.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Project Management

Data Proficiency

Education

Degree-level qualification in Engineering

Job description

Job Description:

Are you an experienced automation leader ready to drive the future of aircraft manufacturing?

We're seeking a Head of Automation to join our Manufacturing Technologies team at our Prestwick plant. This is a pivotal role where you'll be instrumental in deploying and supporting cutting-edge automated machinery for the assembly of aircraft wing structures and sub-assemblies. If you're passionate about innovation, leading high-performing teams, and optimizing production through advanced automation, we want to hear from you!

Please note: This position is subject to the successful closing of the transaction with Spirit, after obtaining relevant regulatory approvals.

About the Role

As our Head of Automation, you'll be at the forefront of defining, developing, and deploying advanced automated assembly solutions. Your work will span a range of machinery, from large Cartesian systems and industrial robots to lightweight and collaborative robots (cobots), all supporting critical processes like drilling, fastening, cold-working, and sealing.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Leading the Assembly Automation Team: Provide strong leadership and guidance to a skilled team of automation professionals.

• Driving Automation Projects: Oversee the entire lifecycle of automated assembly systems, from defining requirements to managing installation, testing, acceptance, and entry into service.

• Strategic Capital Investment: Manage major capital investment projects (including high-value CapEx projects over €5M), leading multi-functional teams to ensure on-time and on-cost delivery.

• Ensuring Compliance & Safety: Guarantee all current and future automation assets comply with relevant Health and Safety requirements.

• Optimizing Performance: Oversee the provision of technical support, ensure robust Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) plans are in place, and continuously monitor Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) to drive improvement.

• Problem Solving & Expertise: Ensure your team provides timely problem-solving expertise, technical knowledge, and machine data analysis to support production machinery.

• Asset Strategy: Contribute to and manage the refurbishment and replacement strategy for existing automation assets across the Prestwick plant.

What You'll Bring

We're looking for a leader with a strong technical background and a proven track record in automation and team management.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Education: Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Engineering.

• Leadership: Strong leadership characteristics with a proven ability to task manage teams, whether directly or indirectly (project teams/subcontractors).

• Stakeholder Management: Ability to pragmatically manage demanding and wide-ranging stakeholders.

• Team Building: A talent for fostering a positive team spirit and atmosphere.

• Project Management Acumen: Awareness of project management skills and techniques, including CapEx processes.

• Data Proficiency: Proficient digital and data analysis skills, with the ability to translate and present complex data meaningfully to non-technical audiences and senior stakeholders.

Beneficial Experience:

• Direct experience in the fields of automation and/or robotics.

• General machines and systems knowledge and experience.

• Project management certification.

Ready to make your mark on the future of aerospace manufacturing?

If you're a driven automation leader with a passion for innovation and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply!

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This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Operations Limited

Employment Type:

Permanent

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Experience Level:

Professional

Job Family:

Manufacturing Engineering

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