Automation Project Manager

 

Foods people love. Brands people trust. And a career that nourishes your future like no other.

 

If you're driven by the passion to do something meaningful that changes lives, Nestlé is the place for you. Nestlé USA is one of seven operating companies that make up Nestlé’s presence in the United States. We're in 97% of American homes, and as the leading food and beverage company, our goals are to continue to deliver quality food and beverage products, strengthen our local communities, and reduce our environmental and climate impact.

 

We’re determined to challenge the status quo and be better tomorrow than we are today. As individuals and teams, we embrace our entrepreneurial culture and have created a workplace where collaboration is essential, courage is rewarded, speed is expected, and agility is the norm to delight our consumers every single day. Here, you will find limitless opportunities to learn and advance your career and feel empowered to succeed in the workplace and beyond. Because our focus is not only on nourishing our customers, but also about enriching you.

 

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

 

 

LOCATION: Solon, OH (Greater Cleveland) preferred, or within close driving distance of a Nestle USA Factory 

 

TRAVEL: 20 - 50%

 

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and processes within the organization. Working closely with Automation Contractors, OEM’s, and cross-functional teams, this role aims to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and optimize productivity through the application of automation technologies.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Collaborate with stakeholders to understand requirements and conceptualize automation solutions. Design and develop automated systems, scripts, and workflows using appropriate tools and technologies.
2. Implement automation solutions across various departments and processes. Ensure seamless integration with existing systems and workflows while minimizing disruption to operations.
3. Develop comprehensive test plans and execute testing procedures to ensure the reliability, scalability, and robustness of automation solutions. Conduct validation exercises to verify compliance with functional and performance requirements.
4. Provide ongoing maintenance and support for deployed automation systems. Troubleshoot issues, perform debugging, and implement enhancements or optimizations as necessary to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
5. Create and maintain documentation for automation solutions, including design specifications, implementation guides, user manuals, and troubleshooting procedures. Ensure documentation is comprehensive, accurate, and accessible to relevant stakeholders.
6. Stay abreast of emerging technologies, trends, and best practices in automation. Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation enhancements to drive efficiency gains and operational excellence.
7. Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, digital & MES Engineering, IT, Operations, and other business units, to gather requirements, solicit feedback, and ensure alignment of automation initiatives with organizational goals. Communicate progress, challenges, and recommendations to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

 

REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM EDUCATION LEVEL:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science or equivalent experience in lieu of a degree 
• Minimum of 7+ years Automation experience in the manufacturing environment

 

SKILLS:

• In-depth knowledge of automation technologies, tools, and methodologies, with hands-on experience in design, development, and implementation.
• Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with the ability to align automation initiatives with business objectives and priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources effectively.
• Experience with change management principles and practices, with a focus on driving cultural and organizational change.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strong attention to detail and a results-driven mindset.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP), Food Processing experience, Lean/Sigma experience is a plus.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to align automation and robotics initiatives with manufacturing objectives, including cost reduction, quality improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to