Machine Build Manager

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Michigan; On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical benefits from day one

Paid parental leave

1-of-1 automation projects

Job summary

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Machine Build Manager in Holland, MI. You will lead the Build Team, coordinate with multiple departments, and ensure safe, on-time, cost-conscious execution of custom automation projects.

The role emphasizes mentorship, lean practices, and strong leadership to advance engineering-driven automation solutions across North America.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Journeyman Certificate preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Direct supervision of the Build Team and other staff.
• Plan, direct, organize and control the build process and related costs.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineering, quoting and other departments.
• Provide technical guidance, promote lean practices, and balance quality, safety, cost, and morale.
• Develop the Machine Build department through leadership, mentoring, and training.
• Ensure safety, on-time delivery, and quality of our products.

Skills

Leadership

Microsoft Office

Reading drawings

Mechanical aptitude

Mentorship

Project coordination

Communication

Education

High School Diploma

Journeyman Certificate

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Location: Holland, Michigan, United States Job ID: R0142811 Date Posted: 2026-09-02 Company Name: J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC Profession (Job Category): Production & Skilled Trades Job Schedule: Full time Remote: No Job Description: The Opportunity:

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people and we’re always looking to get stronger across North America, Europe, and Asia. Join us as a Machine Builder Manager in Holland, MI as we work together to bring innovative automation solutions to life. Location Type: This is a full-time salary position based onsite in Holland, MI

What We Offer:

• Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
• Opportunity to work on customized, 1-of-1 automation projects
• A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
• Career growth and skill development opportunities
• A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter
• Work with cutting edge and innovative technologies

Role Overview

The Machine Build Manager will lead and support the Build Team in the successful execution of custom automation projects, ensuring work is completed safely, on time, within budget, and to JR Automation’s quality standards. This role partners cross-functionally with project managers, engineering, quoting, and other departments to plan resources, manage build activities, communicate project status, and resolve issues throughout the build process. The Machine Build Manager is responsible for developing team members through coaching, training, accountability, and performance feedback while fostering a collaborative, continuous improvement-focused culture. This position also supports internal and external customers by providing technical guidance, promoting lean practices, and balancing quality, safety, cost, and morale to achieve strong results.

How You’ll Make an Impact:

• Direct supervision of the Build Team and other staff.
• Work cross functionally with all departments.
• Plan, direct, organize and control the build process and related costs.
• Ensure that changes and problems get documented and communicated.
• Support project managers with customer service, runoffs, planning, and status reporting.
• The Build Manager may be required to assume some responsibilities of the Project Manager on an as needed basis.
• Strive to achieve the highest level of performance from team members as it relates to their individual ability.
• Promote training and the use of the 3 build development modules.
• Support, promote, and execute company initiatives.
• Provide timely customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Communicate technical information and critical processes to the project team.
• Manage the daily operations by planning the use of materials, floor space, and resources while also considering other needs within and across the business unit.
• Support the quoting team by giving input on concepts, hours, and material costs.
• Establish and maintain a teamwork culture plant wide through leadership, experience, positive attitude, encouragement, and training.
• Set employee expectations, provide feedback, coaching, and accountability to ensure employees meet company expectations as needed and during formal performance reviews.
• Develop the Machine Build department through leadership, mentoring, and training.
• Demonstrate a commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety, on time delivery, and quality of our products.
• Address current and future staffing needs along with participating in the interviewing process.
• Conduct team meetings to keep the team informed of workload, hours, and company policy updates.
• Champion continuous improvement activities and mentor team leaders in the use of lean philosophy and tools.
• Continuously analyze the assigned area of responsibility for improved methods of production, tool design, communication, reporting and cost controls; make recommendations to manager for improvements additional Responsibilities for High Volume Team Members:

Additional Responsibilities for High Volume Team Members:

• Facilitate general problem-solving activities with the intent of determining corrective and preventative actions.
• Understand and positively impact key measures.
• Balance quality safety, cost, and morale to achieve positive results in all areas.

What You’ll Bring:

• High School Diploma, or equivalent certification
• Related vocational education or Journeyman Certificate preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and the ability to navigate Excel.
• Proficient in reading part and assembly drawings.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and quality.
• Strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and initiatives with varying priorities.
• Experience in giving presentations to large groups.
• Proven ability to accept and give direction, set expectations, and hold team members accountable to meet timing, budget, and customer expectations.
• 1-3 years’ experience providing mentorship.
• Ability to maintain a steady pace while bending, kneeling, climbing ladders, and climbing onto and beneath machines.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as required.
• Ability to obtain a Hi-Lo (Forklift), Aerial Platform and Overhead Crane license, along with Lock Out Tag Out training, while employed at JR.

Disclaimer:

JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Company Overview:

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what’s possible to automate for tomorrow. Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators. Fueled by Possible. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to [e-mail]. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to. Hitachi brings together the world's greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities - and drive innovation for a better future. That’s why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world’s biggest challenges. Our people love technology - and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there’s no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting. To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons. E-mail us for data privacy inquiries or technical support.