Expert Automation Project Manager

Davita Inc.; Gaffney (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry is seeking an Expert Automation Project Manager. This role focuses on designing and implementing automation systems to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Candidates should have extensive engineering experience, strong project management skills, and the ability to drive innovative solutions. The position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams and mentoring of junior staff. Candidates must be willing to travel 50% to 80%.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong focus on project management and automation systems.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Designing, developing, and implementing automated systems and processes.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to conceptualize automation solutions.
• Providing ongoing maintenance and support for automation systems.

Skills

Automation technologies

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Robotics

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Job description

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow.

At Nestle USA, we're all working towards the same goal - to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity - and responsibility - to be there for every moment in our consumers' lives.

Joining Nestle means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk-taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

Job Summary: The Expert Automation Project Manager is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and processes within the organization as a project manager. Working closely with Automation Contractors, OEMs, and cross-functional teams, this role aims to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and optimize productivity through the application of automation technologies. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying automation opportunities and driving innovative solutions that meet organizational needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand requirements and conceptualize automation solutions. Manage projects in design and develop automated systems, scripts, and workflows using appropriate tools and technologies.
• Implement automation solutions across various departments and processes. Ensure seamless integration with existing systems and workflows while minimizing disruption to operations.
• Develop comprehensive test plans and execute testing procedures to ensure the reliability, scalability, and robustness of automation solutions. Conduct validation exercises to verify compliance with functional and performance requirements.
• Provide ongoing maintenance and support for deployed automation systems. Troubleshoot issues, perform debugging, and implement enhancements or optimizations as necessary to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Create and maintain documentation for automation solutions, including design specifications, implementation guides, user manuals, and troubleshooting procedures. Ensure documentation is comprehensive, accurate, and accessible to relevant stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, trends, and best practices in automation. Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation enhancements to drive efficiency gains and operational excellence.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, digital & MES Engineering, IT, Operations, and other business units, to gather requirements, solicit feedback, and ensure alignment of automation initiatives with organizational goals. Communicate progress, challenges, and recommendations to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior team members and project stakeholders on automation best practices and methodologies.
• Lead change management efforts related to automation initiatives, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the process.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of automation initiatives and report on progress to senior management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field; minimum of 7 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment with a strong focus on project management; demonstrated expertise in automation, processing, and packaging systems.

• Knowledgeable of automation technologies, tools, and methodologies, development, and implementation."

• Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with the ability to align automation initiatives with business objectives and priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources effectively.
• Experience with change management principles and practices, with a focus on driving cultural and organizational change.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strong attention to detail and a results-driven mindset.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP), Food Processing experience, Lean/Sigma experience is a plus.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to align automation and robotics initiatives with manufacturing objectives, including cost reduction, quality improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic manufacturing environment, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principles.

Travel:50% to 80%

#LI-EW1

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.

To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestle. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestle seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you'll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestle home.

The Nestle Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at [e-mail] or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

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Job Requisition:355597