Automation Project Manager
About the CompanyThe client is a major business conglomerate specializing in the manufacturing of iron and steel pipes, including Line Pipe, OCTG, Standard Pipe, Structural Pipe, Helical Seam (Spiral), and SAW Pipes, along with anti-corrosion coating solutions built to API, ASTM, CSA, NACE, and AWWA specifications.The organization operates manufacturing facilities in Baytown, Texas and BSL, Mississippi, with a Sales & Marketing Office located in Downtown Houston at 1201 Louisiana Street. The company serves major markets across the energy, infrastructure, and industrial sectors.About the RoleThe client is seeking a Project Manager – AI & Automation Strategy to support digital transformation, automation, and AI initiatives across manufacturing and business operations. This is an onsite role based in Houston, TX, primarily working from the Downtown Houston Sales & Marketing Office.This opportunity is ideal for someone who combines technical understanding with strong business and operational thinking. The role involves evaluating technology opportunities, assessing feasibility, comparing vendors, defining implementation requirements, and helping build practical automation and digital transformation roadmaps.The candidate will work closely with leadership and collaborate across production, safety, sales, IT, HR, and management teams. This is a high-impact role with strong visibility and long-term growth potential.Ideal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate should be technically capable, analytically strong, and comfortable working in industrial or manufacturing environments. They should be able to bridge the gap between business and technology teams by helping leadership prioritize practical AI and automation initiatives.The right person will be proactive, structured, curious, and comfortable working in fast-paced and evolving environments.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport and develop AI, automation, and digital transformation roadmapsIdentify technology opportunities to improve operational efficiency, workflow management, safety, reporting, and decision-makingSupport initiatives involving predictive maintenance, production analytics, quality inspection, inventory visibility, and process optimizationEvaluate technical feasibility, business value, implementation requirements, and project impactResearch and assess vendors, platforms, implementation partners, and emerging technologiesTranslate operational challenges into technology requirements and structured project plansSupport implementation activities including demos, pilots, testing, rollout planning, and post-implementation reviewsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business Analytics, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, or related fields4–8 years of experience in AI, automation, digital transformation, manufacturing systems, industrial technology, analytics, or related areasStrong understanding of software, automation, AI, and data-driven business solutionsKnowledge of Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, industrial automation, or connected factory systemsExperience evaluating vendors, platforms, and implementation partnersStrong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skillsExperience working with cross-functional technical and non-technical teamsFamiliarity with AI, machine learning, IoT, ERP, CRM, workflow automation, analytics dashboards, or industrial software systemsProficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and project management toolsPreferred QualificationsLeadership or managerial experience preferredMBA or Master’s degree is a plusExposure to Python, SQL, APIs, cloud platforms, BI tools, or low-code/no-code automation toolsExperience supporting technology pilots, vendor evaluations, software implementation, or digital transformation projectsFamiliarity with Power BI, Tableau, Azure, AWS, ERP systems, CRM platforms, or automation toolsUnderstanding of manufacturing and quality standards such as API, ISO, ASTM, or ASME