Material Handling & Warehouse Automation Lead

Jabil; Gillingham; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing company is seeking a Material Handling and Warehouse Automation Leader located in Gillingham, England. This role will lead the development and improvement of automation systems to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness across global sites. The successful candidate will have a strong background in project management, expert knowledge in warehouse automation solutions, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams. The role promises a dynamic work environment focused on innovation and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in project management and procurement of automation equipment.
• Expert knowledge in Material Handling & Warehouse Automation solutions.
• Ability to specify requirements for Material Handling & Warehouse Automation solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of automation systems in warehousing and material handling operations.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Evaluate and implement cutting-edge automation technologies.

Skills

Project management

Automation design

Vendor negotiation

Communication

Strategic thinking

Data analytics

Knowledge of manufacturing processes

Education

B.Sc. in Mechanical or Electronics/Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

As the Material Handling and Warehouse Automation Leader, you will lead the development, deployment, and continuous improvement of automation systems in warehousing and material handling operations across our global network of sites in multiple regions. This role is critical in driving standardized, scalable, efficient, and cost‑effective automation solutions to support the business’s growth and operational excellence objectives. The role acts as liaison to sites and customers for project requirements, specification definition, planning and installation. Position ensures stipulated specification and requirements are met, and delivered within budget and on time. Position garners team contributions in the specification, execution and implementation of project goals, and supports Global Automation organization with proliferation of projects and equipment.

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a global automation strategy for Material Handling & Warehouse Automation systems with Jabil stakeholders.
• Partner with regional operations, supply chain, and engineering teams to align automation initiatives with business goals.
• Identify future trends and innovations in material handling and assess their fit for the enterprise.
• Create and own the baseline Automation specifications and Automation Preferred Vendor List for the automation systems.

Program and Project Delivery

• Oversee the end‑to‑end lifecycle of automation projects — from requirements gathering and vendor selection to deployment and operational handover.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and with measurable business value including safety & ROI.
• Build standard playbooks, guidelines, and rollout kits to enable consistent deployment across regions.

Technology and Innovation

• Evaluate and implement cutting‑edge technologies such as AS/RS, AMRs, AGVs, conveyors, sorters, WMS integrations, and vision systems.
• Lead trials and pilots to validate solutions before scaled deployment.
• Change the philosophy to Integrated Solutions versus point solutions.

Team and Vendor Management

• Lead a cross‑functional matrix team of automation engineers, project managers, and external integrators.
• Manage Engineering relationships with OEMs, system integrators, and automation technology partners.

Operational Excellence

• Establish and track KPIs to monitor the performance and impact of automation systems.
• Drive continuous improvement through data analytics, benchmarking, and site feedback.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

• Knowledge of manufacturing industries processes.
• Expert knowledge and skill in project management.
• Advanced knowledge of Material Handling & Warehouse Automation solutions.
• Advanced knowledge of automation design and installation.
• Ability to develop integrated Material Handling & Warehouse Automation solutions utilizing market available solutions to meet business needs.
• Strong vendor negotiation and management capabilities.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally and influence senior stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and change management skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, global environment.
• Ability to specify requirements for Material Handling & Warehouse Automation solutions including integration to SAP / MES / supervisory systems.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• B.Sc. in Mechanical or Electronics/Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics.
• Minimum 8‑10 years of working experience in project management and procurement of automation equipment.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training or experience.

Jabil, including its subsidiaries, is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Accessibility Accommodation

If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access Jabil.com/Careers site as a result of your disability. You can request a reasonable accommodation by sending an e‑mail to [e-mail] with the nature of your request and contact information. Please do not direct any other general employment related questions to this e‑mail. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to.