Automation & Controls Manager

The Automation & Controls Manager is responsible for leading the automation function, ensuring the successful design, programming, and delivery of control systems. This role plays a key part in driving operational efficiency, maintaining high-quality standards, and supporting business growth through strong technical execution and team leadership.

• Lead, supervise, mentor, and develop automation personnel; manage hiring, reviews, commendations, and disciplinary actions

• Plan staffing for projects; schedule internal resources and source subcontracted labor to meet manpower needs

• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and quality/safety standards

• Attend project meetings to define scope, develop functional specifications, and meet deadlines

• Oversee and review control system designs for accuracy, standards compliance, and constructability

• Specify and requisition automation components (enclosures, instrumentation, solenoids, PLC/remote I/O, terminal blocks, cabling, pneumatics)

• Evaluate PLC/HMI programming progress; provide technical guidance to programmers and field teams

• Manage AutoCAD Electrical design timelines and deliverables for control schematics

• Guide panel layout, assembly, and wiring; ensure proper installation of wireways, low-voltage wiring, pneumatic tubing, and terminations per schematics

• Support and oversee on-call service programs for technicians and programmers

• Provide hands-on assistance in the panel shop and at customer sites as needed

• Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and mechanical issues in the field

• Support sales with technical input influencing proposals, scope, and customer presentations

• Collaborate with estimators to develop cost estimates and written scopes of work

• Identify and execute revenue opportunities through controls/automation projects

• Build strong relationships with vendors for component selection and technical issue resolution

• Interface directly with customers for installation, commissioning, and service support

• Maintain effective cross-functional communication with internal teams and external partners

• Associate degree in Electrical or Mechanical Technology, or equivalent technical training

• Minimum 5 years of PLC and HMI programming/commissioning experience (Rockwell Automation preferred)

• Strong knowledge of electrical control wiring (24VDC, analog, digital) and AC power wiring (120V/1Ph/60Hz and 230–480V/3Ph/60Hz)

• Familiarity with variable frequency drives (terminations and parameter setup)

• Understanding of Ethernet network design for HMI and I/O communications

• Ability to interpret process instrumentation manuals and wiring diagrams (pressure, flow, level transmitters)

• Proficiency with testing instruments (multimeters, 4–20 mA signal generators)

• Excellent troubleshooting and diagnostic skills across electrical, controls, and mechanical domains

• Approximately 25% overnight travel to customer facilities nationwide; occasional international travel (primarily Canada); valid passport and eligibility for entry into Canada

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