Director, Process & Automation Engineering

About our client:Our employer is the leading manufacturer of Premium Metal Payment Cards and also offers best-in-class Authentication and Digital Asset solutions. The Company's offerings combine elegance, simplicity, and security to deliver exceptional experiences and peace of mind, enabling trust for millions of people around the globe.Position SummaryThe Director, Process & Automation Engineering leads the development, validation, industrialization, and deployment of new manufacturing capabilities across Process and Automation Engineering. Serving as Advanced Manufacturing Engineering’s primary execution leader, this role translates enterprise manufacturing strategy into site-level delivery by managing engineering priorities, manpower allocation, project execution, technical direction, and production readiness. The Director oversees new process development, automation systems, controls, automated material handling, and the equipment-level foundation required for future connected manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives. This role is accountable for delivering projects on time and on budget through disciplined management of scope, schedule, budget, risks, and resources. The Director also provides technical guidance to engineers when needed, ensuring sound decisions, effective problem-solving, and successful execution. Success in this role requires strong leadership, execution discipline, and close partnership with Operations, Quality, IT, and other cross-functional stakeholders. The role ensures new capabilities are scalable, production-ready, and aligned with business priorities.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the Process and Automation Engineering teams and align priorities to business and manufacturing goalsDrive development and industrialization of new manufacturing processes and capabilities not currently performed in-houseOversee automation systems, controls, equipment integration, and automated material handling solutionsSupport development of systems that move material from storage to machines and between process steps in an efficient and repeatable mannerEstablish the equipment-level foundation for future IoT / Industry 4.0 capabilities, including machine connectivity, sensor integration, and data readinessDeliver projects on time and on budget by managing scope, schedule, budget, and execution riskPrioritize and allocate engineering manpower to support the highest-value initiatives and meet project goalsProvide technical guidance to engineers when needed to support sound decisions, problem-solving, and successful executionPartner with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and IT to ensure strong cross-functional alignment and effective implementationQualificationsBachelor’s degree in mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field10+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, automation, industrialization, or related rolesLeadership experience managing teams, technical projects, or cross-functional initiativesStrong background in developing new manufacturing capabilities, automation systems, and equipment integrationExperience managing projects involving scope, budget, schedule, and resource planningStrong communication, technical problem-solving, and organizational leadership skillsPreferred QualificationsProven experience in bringing new manufacturing capabilities in-house from concept through productionExperience with robotics, controls, vision systems, and automated material handlingFamiliarity with machine connectivity, sensor integration, and equipment readiness for future connected manufacturing initiativesExperience working with external integrators, equipment suppliers, or machine buildersWhat Success Looks LikeNew manufacturing capabilities are successfully developed and transitioned into productionAutomation and material handling solutions improve scalability, flow, and readiness for growthProjects are delivered on time and on budgetEngineering resources are prioritized effectively to meet business needsThe team builds the technical foundation for future connected manufacturing initiatives