Automation Engineer - Robotics & Capital Projects

Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.; Hilliard (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Welfare Benefits

Financial Benefits (401k, stock plan)

Job summary

Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, deploy, and optimize automated systems across our manufacturing network. The role focuses on delivering measurable operational improvements through disciplined project management and system integration.

The ideal candidate will lead capital projects, collaborate with maintenance and IT teams, and drive continuous improvement in safety, efficiency, and reliability. Travel to ADS facilities will be required.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical and problem solving abilities.
• Understanding of manufacturing operations and supply chain processes.
• Robotic automation experience (Fanuc preferred).
• PLC/HMI knowledge (Allen‑Bradley preferred).
• Working knowledge of machine safety and ergonomics.

Responsibilities

• Manage automation projects to ensure delivery dates, scope, and financial targets are met.
• Develop business cases for new capital projects.
• Lead capital projects using sound project management processes and principles.
• Facilitate training for plant personnel to support new technologies.
• Support plant integration projects and provide post-implementation assistance.
• Work closely with maintenance teams to ensure smooth, continuous operations.
• Manage internal, external, direct, and indirect project team resources.
• Communicate effectively at all organizational levels; strong presentation skills required.
• Manage multiple complex, multi-faceted projects simultaneously.
• Align teams to defined project charters, goals, and metrics.
• Apply systematic problem-solving tools to resolve technical challenges.
• Manage capital equipment suppliers and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Coordinate stakeholder alignment across departments.
• Partner with IT and plant teams to implement system upgrades aligned with future manufacturing vision

Skills

Leadership

Analytical abilities

Problem solving

Manufacturing operations knowledge

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Communication skills

Capital project management

Vendor management

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Electrical Engineering

Tools

Fanuc robotics

PLC/HMI (Allen-Bradley)

Pneumatic systems

Project management tools

Job description

Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, deploy, and optimize automated systems across our manufacturing network. The role focuses on delivering measurable operational improvements through disciplined project management and system integration.

The ideal candidate will lead capital projects, collaborate with maintenance and IT teams, and drive continuous improvement in safety, efficiency, and reliability. Travel to ADS facilities will be required.