Director of Software Engineering & Automation

ZipRecruiter; Ridgefield (CT); On-site; USD 225,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company is seeking a Director of Software Engineering & Automation in Ridgefield to lead modernization of internal software platforms. This strategic position involves overseeing ERP consolidation, tech-driven innovation, and ensuring systems align with business goals while managing a growing team.

Qualifications

• Experience in ERP implementation and automation rollouts.
• Proven record in leading sprint cycles.
• Startup-to-scaleup transition experience is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead technology strategy from ERP systems to automation platforms.
• Own software roadmap and ensure successful data migration.
• Manage and develop a growing internal tech team.

Skills

Leadership

Systems migration

Automation

ERP ownership

Education

7–10+ years of experience in senior technology leadership

Tools

SaaS ecosystems

Cloud platforms

APIs

AI/ML

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Director of Software Engineering & Automation
Ridgefield, NJ | On-site Full Time
225K – 275K base + performance bonus

Company Overview

We're a fast-growing, operationally complex manufacturing company undergoing a major transition—from fast-paced startup to scalable, structured business. We're deeply committed to operational efficiency, automation, and long-term technology investments that drive measurable business value.

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on, execution-first VP of Software Systems & Engineering to lead the modernization of all internal software platforms, systems architecture, and tech-enabled processes. You'll report to the Integrator and work closely with senior leadership to translate company vision into systems that deliver faster, smarter, and more aligned execution.

This role requires someone who's led a company through tech transitions, thrives in fast-moving environments, and has a clear track record of migrating legacy systems, integrating platforms, automating operations, and implementing sprint-based delivery. You'll oversee a growing internal team (currently under 10) and expand capacity through hiring or outsourcing.

The Ideal Candidate

You've helped a company evolve from patchwork tools to unified systems. You see inefficiencies and immediately map out how to solve them. You have a startup work ethic, but a scale-up mindset. You can coach developers, manage third-party partners, and make big-picture tech decisions—while never losing sight of speed, quality, and ROI.

You don't just plan—you ship.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems & Software Ownership:
  Lead all technology strategy across the business, from ERP systems to automation platforms. Evaluate, implement, and retire tools based on impact, not politics.
• ERP Consolidation & Integration:
  Own the roadmap to unify software under one core system. Oversee vendor selection, architecture, implementation, and data migration—while minimizing manual work and sync issues during transition.
• Legacy Tech Cleanup:
  Audit underutilized tools and forgotten features. Identify what can be improved, salvaged, or retired. Avoid waste, maximize ROI, and educate teams on tools already in place.
• Sprint-Based Execution:
  Translate requests and business goals into weekly or bi-weekly sprints. Lead the team through structured development, ensuring consistent delivery with minimal delays.
• Automation & Process Alignment:
  Build software that aligns with real processes—not the other way around. Reduce manual workflows. Eliminate silos. Ensure all systems sync accurately in real time.
• Tech-Driven Innovation:
  Stay ahead of emerging tech trends—especially AI, machine learning, and automation. Constantly evaluate new opportunities that can drive competitive advantage.
• IT Infrastructure Oversight:
  Oversee internal tech functions including networking, security, user support, and surveillance. Maintain a reliable and secure tech backbone for all operations.
• People & Output Management:
  Ensure your team delivers real, business-impacting outcomes. Code must be clean, documented, and easy to maintain. Lead with accountability and clarity.

Qualifications

• 7–10+ years of experience in senior technology leadership (CTO, VP Eng, Head of Systems)
• Proven track record in ERP implementation, platform migration, and automation rollouts
• Manufacturing, supply chain, or operational tech experience
• Startup-to-scaleup transition experience required
• Experience implementing agile methodologies and leading sprint cycles
• Familiarity with SaaS ecosystems, APIs, system architecture, and cloud platforms
• AI/ML implementation experience required
• Strong leadership, team development, and third-party/vendor management skills
• Comfortable working cross-functionally and presenting tech strategy to non-technical leadership
• Experience with EOS operating system a strong plus

Must-Haves

• Prior experience delivering full tech transformations in a high-growth environment
• Systems migration, automation, and ERP ownership
• Strong business acumen and ability to tie tech investments to measurable ROI
• Hands-on mentality—ability to lead devs while also owning tech strategy
• Startup mindset with the discipline to scale and structure

If you're ready to lead from the front, scale what works, fix what doesn't, and implement technology that transforms—we want to hear from you.

Email Resume: [e-mail]

Apply Online:

https://jobs.crelate.com/portal/maiplacement/job/xwmqonfzrsfegc4z61njz38...