Manufacturing Engineering Manager 2 - Industrial Automation and Controls

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the Time

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At the heart of who we are, Northrop Grumman is an American manufacturing company building the next generation of innovation for the United States and its allies. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Waynesboro, VA will deliver advanced radars, communications antennas, and electronic warfare capabilities. Slated to open in 2026, we are adding hundreds of high-quality jobs in the heart of Virginia. Together, we will work to deliver the world’s most advanced technologies to protect our national security.

We are looking for you to join our team as a Manager 2, Industrial Automation and Controls Engineering based out of Waynesboro, Virginia.

We are seeking an Industrial Automation and Controls Engineering Manager to spearhead the development of advanced industrial automation systems at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities. This pivotal role blends technical leadership with management, focusing on building a new team of engineers to oversee the installation of a new robotic line, maintain operational efficiency, and drive programming updates that enhance the affordability of current and future products.

What You'll Get to Do:

As a hands-on leader, you will oversee the planning and deployment of robotic systems, leveraging strong architecture and system design skills. Your responsibilities include recruiting and developing a high-performing team, ensuring seamless integration of automation technologies, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

Collaboration with Product, Hardware, and Software teams is essential to deliver robust, scalable solutions. You will track key performance indicators related to automation efficiency and provide updates on project progress to senior management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish a competent team of automation engineers to support factory acceptance testing, tooling and end-effector design, automation programming, SCADA system architecture and data capture and analysis. 

• Coordinate/Lead the execution of industrial automation projects using systems engineering and program management best practices to achieve successful project outcomes. 

• Maintain team affordability and effectiveness, ensuring resources are aligned to meet technical and financial goals while promoting employee development and performance assessment.

We are looking for candidates who thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, possess excellent communication skills, and have a passion for innovation and teamwork.

Travel will be less than 25% and will decrease after the first 12-18 months.

Basic Qualifications for the Manager 2:

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in a STEM area and a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience in manufacturing, electrical or automation engineering; candidates who also have a Master's degree qualify with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in manufacturing, electrical or automation engineering.

• 5 or more years of experience in industrial automation and controls, with at least 1 year in a leadership role within that discipline

• Experience in project management and communication tools

• Experience with MS office and programming skills in C++, Python, or similar languages

• Experience in automation systems and experience in production environments

• Ability to obtain and maintain a US Secret level security clearance

• US Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Manager 2:

• Bachelor’s Degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering

• Experience with SCADA system architecture, Siemens PLCs, and FANUC automation solutions

• Six Sigma certification and proficiency in ap