Senior Automation Manager

Flex; Seberang Perai; On-site; MYR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company is seeking a Senior Automation Manager based in Prai, Penang. This role involves driving efficiency and scalability in PCBA manufacturing through advanced automation. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in automation technologies and proven leadership skills to manage complex projects and improve production lines. Full medical benefits are offered.

Benefits

Full range of medical benefits

Dental and vision coverage

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in PCBA manufacturing and automation.
• Significant leadership experience in a high-volume production environment.
• Strong knowledge of DFM, DFT, and DFX principles.

Responsibilities

• Define long-term vision for PCBA automation.
• Research and recommend new automation technologies.
• Manage significant investments in automation projects.

Skills

Leadership

Automation technologies

Process optimization

Collaboration

Troubleshooting

Programming (Python, C++)

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Engineering/Computer Science

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Simulation tools

Industrial automation platforms

Job description

Overview

To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add a Senior Automation Manager located in Prai, Penang.

This role is to drive efficiency, quality, cost reduction, and scalability in PCBA manufacturing and system integration through advanced automation, process optimization, and technological innovation. This role often bridges the gap between design engineering, manufacturing operations, and IT/software development.

Responsibilities

• Define the long-term vision and roadmap for PCBA and system integration automation, aligning with business objectives, industry trends (e.g., Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing), and technology advancements.
• Research, evaluate, and recommend new automation technologies, equipment, software, and tools (e.g., robotics, AI, machine vision, advanced control systems, MES, PLM, ERP integration) to enhance manufacturing capabilities and efficiency.
• Plan, manage, and justify significant investments in automation projects, including capital expenditure and operational budgets. Allocate resources effectively to achieve strategic goals.
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of automation engineers, manufacturing engineers, process engineers, and potentially software developers. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and problem-solving.
• Influence Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Testability (DFT) to optimize designs for automated processes.
• Support and improve existing production lines, troubleshoot issues, and ensure smooth new product introduction (NPI) and ramp-up.
• Implement automation for quality control, inspection (e.g., AOI, AXI), and testing to minimize defects and ensure product reliability.
• Collaborate on supplier selection for automation equipment and components, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
• Ensure seamless data flow and integration between manufacturing systems (MES, SCADA), enterprise systems (ERP), and automation platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (typically 10+ years, with significant leadership experience) in PCBA manufacturing, automation, and system integration within a high-volume production environment.
• Deep understanding of PCBA processes including backend and system integration, SMT technology, and related equipment.
• Proven expertise in automation technologies (robotics, machine vision, PLCs, industrial controls, SCADA, MES).
• Strong knowledge of DFM, DFT, and DFX principles.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software, simulation tools, and industrial automation software platforms.
• Proficiency in programming languages relevant to automation (e.g., Python, C++, Ladder Logic).
• Experience in a global manufacturing environment and with contract manufacturers (CMs) is often highly valued.
• This role requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, strong leadership, and excellent interpersonal skills to navigate complex technical challenges and collaborate effectively across diverse teams.

Benefits

• Full range of medical benefits, dental, vision