Custom Automation Program Manager (Mechanical Systems)

A week in this role: You kick off a new machine program on Monday, translating a customer’s concept into a tangible plan with clear milestones, resources, and budget guardrails. Mid-week, you’re deep in a design review—probing tolerances, manufacturability, and performance while aligning mechanical, electrical, controls, and integration disciplines. By Friday, you’re on the floor coordinating build activities, preparing for FAT/SAT, and closing the loop with customers and leadership on status, risks, and next steps.

You are the orchestrator who keeps complex, custom automation projects moving confidently from concept to commissioning—on schedule, on budget, and to spec.

Core outcomes you’ll drive

• Own end-to-end delivery of custom automation and special machinery—from kickoff through commissioning and customer sign-off.
• Act as the customer’s primary point of contact, setting expectations and communicating progress and changes.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams: engineering, manufacturing, assembly, controls, purchasing, and field service.
• Build and maintain integrated schedules, budgets, milestones, and resource plans; keep them current and visible.
• Lead project reviews and provide timely status updates to internal leadership and customers.
• Review engineering outputs to confirm technical requirements and acceptance criteria are met.
• Manage scope and change orders; identify risks early and drive mitigation and issue resolution.
• Support mechanical design reviews and collaborate on manufacturability and overall system performance.
• Plan and coordinate machine build, FAT/SAT activities, installation, and startup support.
• Ensure delivery aligns with schedule, budget, and quality targets.
• Maintain rigorous documentation: schedules, notes, action logs, and project reports.
• Continuously improve execution processes and cross-team communication.

Qualifications — Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent relevant experience.
• 3+ years managing or executing projects in custom automation, special machinery, or industrial equipment.
• Hands-on background with automated machinery and manufacturing systems.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary efforts across mechanical, electrical, controls, and integration.
• Demonstrated ability to run multiple projects in parallel.
• Strong grasp of machine design, fabrication, assembly, and commissioning practices.
• Excellent communication, organization, and leadership capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project scheduling tools.

Preferred

• PMP certification or formal project management training.
• Exposure to robotic systems, material handling, vision systems, or assembly automation.
• Familiarity with CAD platforms and engineering documentation.
• Experience collaborating directly with manufacturing customers and suppliers.
• Ability to travel for customer meetings, installations, and on-site project support as needed.

Traits that set you apart

• Decisive problem-solver with sound judgment.
• Customer-first mindset.
• Thrives under deadlines in a fast-moving environment.
• Detail-oriented with thorough follow-through.
• Collaborative leader who influences across functions.

Proficiencies

• GD&T
• Leadership / People Management
• Project Management
• CAD Software
• Mechanical Design & Engineering
• Vendor & Supplier Management

Machines & technologies you’ll use

• 3D Modeling (AutoCAD, Solidworks)
• 2D Drawings (AutoCAD, Solidworks)
• Robotic Welder
• Industrial Robot (Fanuc, Kuka, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, Universal Robotics)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Performance bonus opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Career growth opportunities within a growing automation organization