Manager of Automation Engineering

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom; Charles City (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom is seeking a Manager of Automation Engineering in Charles City, Iowa. In this role, you will oversee and mentor an automation engineering team, ensuring that control systems operate reliably and efficiently while adhering to all regulatory standards.

This position offers exceptional growth potential, a competitive compensation package, including relocation assistance and performance bonuses, and the chance to work in a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on expertise in DCS and control system design.
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment required.
• 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role in automation.

Responsibilities

• Manage automation resources and lead high-impact projects.
• Supervise and mentor a team of Automation Engineers.
• Provide hands-on support for PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Lead automation roadmap for system modernization.
• Identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Ensure compliance with GMP and regulatory standards.

Skills

DCS expertise

PLC/HMI programming

Team leadership

Process optimization

Regulatory standards knowledge

Job description

Kelly Engineering is partnering with an industry-leading organization in Charles City, Iowa, to present an exceptional direct hire opportunity for a Manager of Automation Engineering. This dynamic role offers outstanding potential for professional growth, a highly competitive compensation package including relocation assistance and performance bonuses and the chance to work within a supportive, collaborative team environment.

The Manager of Automation Engineering is a first-line/hands on technical leader responsible for overseeing the automation engineering team and ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of control systems across the site.

What you will do

• Manages automation resources, develops team capability, and personally leads to high-impact automation projects or system upgrades.
• Directly supervise and mentor a team of 3-8 Automation Engineers, Technicians, and/or Controls Specialists.
• Provide hands‑on design, programming, configuration, and commissioning support for PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems.
• Lead the automation roadmap for the site including system modernization, digital transformation, and process optimization initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for automation or advanced controls to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and enhance product quality.
• Ensure all automation work adheres to GMP, GAMP 5, OSHA, and other relevant regulatory standards.

Qualification

• Strong hands‑on expertise in DCS, control system design, PLC/HMI programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and network communications.
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (pharmaceutical, biotech, or chemical) strongly preferred.
• 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role.