Operational Technology Leader

Colgate; Topeka (KS); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) with company match

15 vacation/PTO days and 13 paid holidays

Disability coverage

Job summary

Colgate is seeking an Operational Technology Leader in Topeka, Kansas. This role focuses on enhancing manufacturing digital transformation through robust plant floor systems and secure network infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will lead technology projects ensuring that operations provide high-quality nutrition for pets while adhering to global standards. Requires a Bachelor’s in Engineering and 5+ years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in plant floor systems and automation controls.
• Experience managing technical resources in manufacturing.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity protocols for industrial systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing system projects from conception to completion.
• Analyze system performance for efficiency and cost-saving opportunities.
• Manage OT network configuration and troubleshooting.

Skills

Plant floor systems

Integration

Automation controls

PLC programming

Cybersecurity

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Wonderware (Archestra, MES, InTouch)

Microsoft SQL Server

Job description

Job Title

Operational Technology Leader

Location & Travel

Topeka, Kansas, United States. Travel: up to 10% of time.

Role Summary

Develop the digital transformation of manufacturing by integrating plant floor systems and secure network infrastructure. Lead high‑impact technology projects, ensuring operations deliver premium nutrition to pets while meeting global integration standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute manufacturing system projects across plant floor systems, PLC control, devices and instrumentation, and networking, from conception to completion.
• Use PLC/Archestra programming, HMI screen development, and data acquisition/analytics to improve automation.
• Manage OT network configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring cybersecurity integrity and reliable performance.
• Supervise OT resources and collaborate with plant leadership, engineering, and global Manufacturing Systems, Automation, and IT teams; provide project updates.
• Analyze system performance to identify automation, efficiency, and cost‑saving opportunities; utilize Factory Performance & Reliability tools.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in plant floor systems, integration, and automation controls within manufacturing.
• Expertise in Allen‑Bradley PLCs, Wonderware (Archestra, MES, InTouch), and Microsoft SQL Server.
• Experience managing internal or external technical resources.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) or pet food manufacturing.
• Advanced knowledge of Aveva system platform or similar (MES, SCADA, ERP Integration).
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server.
• Advanced knowledge of IT/OT network design (Cisco, Industrial Ethernet).
• Familiarity with cybersecurity protocols for industrial control systems.
• Strong understanding of Factory Performance & Reliability and Operational Excellence metrics.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $115,000.00 – $150,000.00 USD. Pay is determined by experience, qualifications, and location.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in 401(k) with company match. Additional benefits: 15 vacation/PTO days for salaried employees, 120 hours PTO for hourly employees, 13 paid holidays, and sick leave per local laws.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging and can contribute meaningfully.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities.

Work Visa Sponsorship

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Accordingly, all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full‑time basis and must not require the Company’s sponsorship to continue to work legally in the United States.