Director, Digital Manufacturing & Industry 4.0 Lab

Institute For Advanced Learning And Research

Danville (VA)

On-site

USD 106,200 - 113,900

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Virginia Retirement System retirement

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Health plans

Job summary

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, VA seeks a Manager, Digital Manufacturing to lead the Industry 4.0 Lab and advance smart manufacturing initiatives. You will act as the technical expert on robotics, automation, PLCs, and industrial connectivity, guiding educators, manufacturers, and students in practical applications.

You will design hands-on trainings, demonstrations, and workshops, build partnerships with industry, and drive technology adoption across the region

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronic Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field.
Minimum of five years of manufacturing experience with robotics, automation, and process control.
Experience programming and troubleshooting Allen‑Bradley PLC systems.
Ability to travel as needed and represent the organization professionally.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary technical expert in digital manufacturing, Industry 4.0, automation, robotics, industrial connectivity, and emerging manufacturing technologies.
Lead the vision, development, and continuous enhancement of the Industry 4.0 Lab, ensuring demonstrations remain relevant, innovative, and aligned with evolving industry needs.
Design and deliver hands‑on training, workshops, educational programs, and experiential learning opportunities for manufacturers, educators, workforce partners, and students.
Develop engaging demonstrations, presentations, tours, and technology showcases for industry leaders, government officials, educators, and other visitors.
Partner with manufacturers to identify opportunities for automation, modernization, process improvement, and digital transformation.
Support manufacturing optimization and applied technology projects through technical consultation, evaluation of emerging technologies, and practical implementation strategies.
Build and maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, technology providers, educational institutions, workforce organizations, economic development partners, and government agencies.
Represent IALR at conferences, technical committees, industry associations, and professional organizations.
Contribute to grants, contracts, strategic initiatives, and organizational projects by providing technical expertise and stakeholder support.
Track, analyze, and communicate program outcomes, project metrics, and impact data.
Manage multiple initiatives while balancing strategic priorities, technical execution, stakeholder engagement, and program deliverables.