Global Manufacturing Automation Leader — Hybrid & AI-Driven

nVent; Saint Louis Park (MN); Hybrid; USD 173,000 - 257,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with company match

ESPP

Tuition reimbursement

Paid time off

Parental leave

Back-up care

Well-being program

Identity protection

Job summary

nVent seeks a Director of Manufacturing Automation to drive transformation across manufacturing, assembly, packaging and distribution. You will lead strategy, design, and implementation of advanced automation technologies, including robotics, AI, IoT, and HMIs.

You will manage capital budgets, lead cross-functional teams, and partner with ERP/MES/quality systems to optimize operations, with a global, hybrid work model and significant travel opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field.
• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing automation and transformation.
• Proven success leading global teams and large-scale automation initiatives.
• Expertise in robotics, mechatronics, AI, IoT, and vision systems.
• Deep knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies, automation systems, data analytics, and lean manufacturing.
• Strong analytical, project management, and interpersonal skills.
• Lean Six Sigma knowledge preferred.
• Ability to travel approximately 25%, domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an automation strategy aligned with enterprise goals.
• Identify and implement modern automation solutions including robotics, AI, IoT, and HMIs; lead feasibility studies and business cases.
• Lead design, programming, and integration of automation systems with ERP, MES, and quality systems.
• Direct multi-functional teams through concept to commissioning; manage budgets and vendor relationships.
• Drive process improvements using Lean, Six Sigma and other methodologies.
• Define and track KPIs to measure impact on efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Mentor and develop automation engineers and technicians.
• Drive data-driven decision-making and real-time monitoring.

Skills

Robotics & Mechatronics

AI & IoT

Vision systems

Industry 4.0

Lean manufacturing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field

Master’s preferred (Mechanical Eng or Industrial Design)

Job description

nVent seeks a Director of Manufacturing Automation to drive transformation across manufacturing, assembly, packaging and distribution. You will lead strategy, design, and implementation of advanced automation technologies, including robotics, AI, IoT, and HMIs.

You will manage capital budgets, lead cross-functional teams, and partner with ERP/MES/quality systems to optimize operations, with a global, hybrid work model and significant travel opportunities.