Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay Range: $145,000–$150,000 annually

Position Overview: M Force Partners is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager to lead industrial automation, manufacturing process optimization, and engineering operations at a manufacturing facility in Westminster, MD. This leadership position is responsible for improving manufacturing efficiency through advanced automation technologies, robotics integration, optimized production processes, and the development of high-performing technical teams. The Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager will oversee Process Engineers and Setup Technicians while providing hands‑on technical leadership in PLC programming, industrial robotics, automated controls, and custom manufacturing equipment. The position supports both low-volume and high-volume manufacturing operations, with an emphasis on transforming manual processes into efficient, scalable automated systems. The ideal Manufacturing Automation Engineering Manager brings at least eight years of experience in industrial automation, process engineering, or manufacturing engineering, along with proven leadership experience. This individual must be comfortable working directly with production equipment while managing engineering projects, developing technical personnel, and implementing long-term operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities: Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of Process Engineers and Setup Technicians Direct industrial automation initiatives to improve manufacturing productivity, equipment reliability, product quality, and workplace safety Identify opportunities to automate manual manufacturing processes and reduce operational inefficiencies Develop and implement automation strategies for both high-volume and low-volume manufacturing environments Provide hands‑on technical expertise in PLC programming, industrial robotics, sensors, actuators, and automated control systems Oversee the design, installation, commissioning, and optimization of automated manufacturing equipment Integrate new automation technologies into existing production lines and manufacturing operations Coordinate the implementation of equipment and engineering solutions developed by other facilities within the organization Lead the development and fabrication of custom tooling, fixtures, jigs, and automated workstations Manage engineering projects from initial concept through installation, testing, and production implementation Establish project scopes, schedules, budgets, technical requirements, and performance objectives Collaborate with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Research and Development teams to improve manufacturing processes Support new product introductions by developing efficient manufacturing methods and equipment requirements Investigate equipment failures, production inefficiencies, and manufacturing quality concerns through root cause analysis Implement corrective actions to improve equipment performance, process stability, and operational efficiency Analyze manufacturing performance metrics to identify opportunities for cost reduction, increased throughput, and improved quality Establish and maintain engineering documentation, equipment setup procedures, and technical operating standards Support technical training programs to improve employee capabilities in equipment operation, troubleshooting, and process control Ensure manufacturing processes and automated systems comply with applicable safety requirements and industry standards Promote continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and engineering operations Work directly with production personnel to troubleshoot technical challenges and implement practical engineering solutions Travel domestically and occasionally internationally to support engineering initiatives and equipment implementation

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation, process engineering, or manufacturing engineering Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams, technical personnel, or manufacturing support functions Strong hands‑on experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), industrial robotics, and automated control systems Experience working with industrial sensors, actuators, automation hardware, and manufacturing control software Demonstrated success converting manual manufacturing operations into automated production processes Experience developing and implementing complete industrial automation solutions Strong knowledge of manufacturing process design, equipment integration, and production optimization Experience designing or implementing custom tooling, fixtures, automated workstations, or specialized manufacturing equipment Ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and automated manufacturing systems Experience managing engineering projects, including budgets, schedules, technical requirements, and implementation Strong analytical skills with experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions Ability to interpret manufacturing performance data and identify opportunities for operational improvement Excellent leadership, communication, and team development skills Ability to collaborate effectively with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering departments Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple engineering priorities and deadlines Ability to exercise independent judgment and make informed technical and operational decisions Comfortable working directly on the manufacturing floor and providing hands‑on technical support Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies Hands‑on robotic programming experience with FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or Universal Robots (UR) Experience supporting both high-volume and low-volume manufacturing operations Background integrating modern automation technology into existing manufacturing equipment and legacy production systems Experience improving manufacturing throughput, cycle times, equipment utilization, and process efficiency Knowledge of automated assembly systems, robotic workcells, and industrial machine controls Experience leading manufacturing automation projects involving multiple departments or facilities Familiarity with new product introduction (NPI) processes and manufacturing engineering support Experience implementing standardized engineering processes and technical documentation Demonstrated success developing engineering teams and supporting technical employee training Manufacturing-based leadership position located in Westminster, MD Regular interaction with production personnel, engineering teams, and manufacturing equipment Hands‑on involvement with industrial automation systems, robotics, and manufacturing processes Ability to work in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven production environment Collaboration with technical and nontechnical teams across manufacturing operations Domestic travel and occasional international travel required Consistent attendance and reliability are essential to the position Job presented by M Force Partners M Force Partners is a specialized recruitment partner connecting top-tier talent with leading organizations. With a deep understanding of engineering/technical, medical, professional and executive disciplines and industry demands, we deliver tailored recruitment solutions, including direct hire and contract placements, to ensure the right fit for both candidates and clients. Equal Opportunity Employer M Force Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.