Robotics Automation Project Lead (Brownfield)

Mindlance; North Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Mindlance in North Chicago, IL seeks a Manufacturing Automation Project Lead for a 12‑month contract to steer robotics initiatives across US sites. You will partner with site stakeholders to define opportunities, translate needs into clear requirements, and drive projects from definition through startup with external system integrators.

You will be a hands‑off technical leader, evaluating feasibility, assessing risks, and ensuring solutions align with safety, quality, and regulatory demands.

Qualifications

• Experience evaluating or deploying robotics in brownfield manufacturing environments.
• Ability to translate workflows into requirements and plans.
• Experience managing external delivery partners and system integrators.
• Strong communication and leadership across technical and non-technical teams.
• Understanding of safety, controls, validation, and site expectations.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day automation and robotics projects from definition to implementation.
• Collaborate with site functions to capture workflows and desired outcomes.
• Assess brownfield constraints early to prevent unimplementable solutions.
• Translate needs into scope, requirements, success criteria, and deliverables.
• Manage system integrators, suppliers, and technology partners; review plans and risks.
• Provide technical oversight without detailing design or programming.
• Document decisions, risks, and handoffs; support startup and validation.

Skills

Brownfield robotics deployment

Project leadership

Stakeholder management

System integrator management

Robotics and automation knowledge

Industrial automation strategy

Risk assessment and mitigation

Job description

Mindlance in North Chicago, IL seeks a Manufacturing Automation Project Lead for a 12‑month contract to steer robotics initiatives across US sites. You will partner with site stakeholders to define opportunities, translate needs into clear requirements, and drive projects from definition through startup with external system integrators.

You will be a hands‑off technical leader, evaluating feasibility, assessing risks, and ensuring solutions align with safety, quality, and regulatory demands.