Ormco Director, Automation/Controls (Pomona, CA)

Ormco; Pomona (CA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 244,000; Full time

Job summary

Ormco, a leader in orthodontic manufacturing, seeks a Director of Automation & Controls to guide global automation strategy and a team of engineers. You will shape the digital factory vision, drive advanced manufacturing initiatives, and ensure high-quality, compliant production across multiple sites.

Reporting to the VP of Global Manufacturing Engineering, you will oversee capital projects, vendor relations, and cross-functional collaboration to optimize Spark aligner and bracket production

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years leading a team in high-growth markets with demonstrated targets.
• 5+ years working with highly automated manufacturing cells/equipment.
• Experience in an FDA-regulated environment.
• Expertise in automation hardware and controls software.
• Experience managing large capital projects and automation investment portfolios.
• Strong financial acumen including budget management and ROI analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of automation and controls engineers.
• Collaborate with project managers, mechanical design engineers, and software groups on robust machine designs.
• Research and develop new technologies for Spark aligners, wire, and bracket production.
• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify automation opportunities.
• Design automated workflows and roadmaps to improve production efficiency and quality.
• Oversee programming for PLC, HMI/SCADA, Servo, Robotics, Vision, Laser.
• Provide sustaining engineering support for existing lines.
• Ensure compliance with FDA/ISO quality requirements.

Skills

Team leadership

Project management

Strategic thinking

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mech/Elect/Elect/Industrial)

Tools

Cognex VisionPro

InSight

Allen Bradley PLCs

FactoryTalk View

Ignition

CNC machines

Vision systems

HMI/SCADA

Job description

Job Summary

The Director of Automation & Controls provides strategic leadership for automation, controls engineering, robotics, industrial digitalization, and advanced manufacturing technologies supporting Spark aligners, orthodontic wire, and bracket manufacturing. This role is responsible for defining the future-state digital factory vision, leading automation innovation, and driving operational excellence across global manufacturing operations through scalable, validated, and compliant automation solutions. Reporting to VP of Global Manufacturing Engineering, the Director leads a team of automation and controls professionals and serves as the technical authority for automation strategy, controls standards, advanced manufacturing technologies, and operational technology infrastructure across global manufacturing operations. The role drives operational excellence through innovative automation solutions, standardization, capital project execution, and continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with FDA, ISO, and corporate quality requirements.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of automation and controls engineers, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
• Collaborate with project managers, mechanical design engineers, and software groups to develop low-risk and robust machine designs.
• Lead the research and development of new technologies and automation systems that enhance the production of Spark aligners and wire and brackets.
• Analyze current wire and bracket manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for automation.
• Research and evaluation automation technologies for wire and bracket manufacturing, including robotics, CNC machines, and automated assembly systems.
• Design automated workflows and roadmap to enhance wire and bracket production efficiency while maintaining product quality.
• Oversee the programming of software for unique projects with a variety of needs (PLC, HMI/SCADA, Servo, Robotics, Vision, Laser, etc.).
• Lead and guide the team to provide improvement and sustaining engineering support for existing production lines.
• Oversee the development, maintenance, and improvement of manufacturing and inspection processes and procedures using automated solutions.
• Provide guidance on equipment, process validations, and testing to internal procedures.
• Lead the development of equipment modifications to improve productivity and product quality.
• Establish a relationship with outside vendors for the development of manufacturing equipment and create methods/processes to improve capacities in production.
• Collaborate closely with the maintenance department to improve machine reliability/reduce downtime and define equipment maintenance requirements.
• Research and identify potential suppliers for automation control systems, components, and related services. Evaluate suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery time, and reliability.
• Partner with cross-functional leaders to monitor inventory levels of automation control components and systems to ensure optimal stock levels and avoid shortages.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. Address any issues or concerns promptly to ensure smooth and continuous supply chain operations.
• Oversee and ensure the timely repair of equipment and tooling as needed.
• Ensure that a thorough process failure mode effects analysis is completed to prevent or limit failures to drive efficiency and reliability.
• Continuously seek opportunities to reduce procurement costs without compromising quality. Implement cost-saving initiatives and track their impact on the overall budget.
• Establish project timelines, project justification, and budget forecasts.
• Manage the budget and ensure effective allocation of resources to maximize ROI.
• Drive continuous improvement by utilizing Envista Business Systems to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within the team.
• Remain compliant with regulatory requirements and quality targets for year over year results.
• Work within the company’s corporate quality system and ISO / FDA regulations to remain compliant.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering or related fields; a Master’s degree is preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in leading a team in high-growth markets with demonstrated history of meeting/exceeding targets and expectations.
• 5+ years of experience working with highly automated manufacturing cells/equipment.
• Experience working in an FDA-regulated environment.
• Expertise in automation hardware and controls software.
• Experience managing large capital projects and automation investment portfolios.
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management, ROI analysis, and business case development.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the activities of Pomona automations/controls and other specified geographies;
• Guide and influence a matrixed organization of operations leaders/teams (varies by geography) focused on Spark manufacturing, wire and bracket automation.
• Grow and develop organization through recruiting, selection, training, compensation and motivation of operations team.
• Guide and mentor direct reports to assist in their personal and professional development,

Preferred Skills

• Expertise in the design and troubleshooting of complex machine control systems and programs.
• Knowledge of Vision Inspection & Vision Guided motion (primarily Cognex VisionPro and InSight).
• In-depth knowledge of PC programming (C(s), .NET, data base)
• Knowledge in PLC controls (primarily Allen Bradley CompactLogix & ControlLogix).
• Knowledge of HMI (primarily Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View SE & ME and Ignition).
• Familiarity with mainstream manufacturing technologies such as CNC's, 3D prototyping, thermoforming, and automation within the manufacturing environment.
• Comprehensive experience in process/equipment validation and documentation.

Abilities

• Strong project management experience, excellent organization, and prioritization skills.
• Exceptional communication skills (Technical, Oral, Written) with the ability to describe complex technical issues clearly.
• Ability to follow instructions and guidelines set forth by senior management.
• Strong understanding of regulatory and compliance documentation processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills that create followership and motivate team members.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills.
• High ethical standards and attention to reputational and compliance risks.
• Organized thinker capable of prioritizing tasks in real-time and exercising judgment in a high-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Microsoft Project.
• Ability to travel at least 20% of the time to various manufacturing sites, both domestically and internationally, to oversee process implementation and provide on-site support.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Working hours and shifts will vary and are dependent upon business needs.
• The noise level in the office environment is low, but moderate to loud in manufacturing areas.
• The employee must follow applicable safety procedures when working near manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to stand and/or sit for long periods of time as required by business needs.
• Occasional bending, reaching, or handling of lightweight parts or test artifacts may be required.
• Occasionally push, pull, lift and/or bend as required.
• Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Actual compensation packages take into account a wide range of factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to geographic location; skill sets; relevant education and certifications; depth of experience; performance; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed reasonable estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Envista, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The total compensation package for this position may also include an annual performance bonus, medical/dental/vision benefits, 401K match, and/or other applicable compensation plans.

For Field Sales roles, the salary range listed reflects base pay only and does not include incentive pay opportunities under the applicable sales compensation plan.

$200,000 - $244,400

Operating company:Ormco

Envista and all Envista Companies are equal opportunity employers that evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other characteristics protected by law. The “EEO is the Law” poster is available at: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf