Automation Engineering Department Head

About the Role Lead and direct a group of Engineers and Technicians responsible for the Fiber Processing Area (FPA), Warehouse/Shipping, and automated equipment across the facility. Establish and execute a project and process improvement portfolio to deliver new products and capabilities that meet business objectives, while developing top technical talent. What You'll Do

• Objectively assess department needs to ensure equipment can meet output requirements in all areas of the plant.
• Establish strategy and portfolio to deliver engineering and innovation solutions aligned with business needs.
• Partner with Operations to translate equipment performance requirements into efficient, lean staffing models for automated systems.
• Serve as the facility's main POC for Automation and utilize MIE for new product/process transfers to integrate into production.
• Collaborate with Division Engineering & Technology groups to execute the division's 5-year automation roadmap.
• Promote the use of PEX and project management tools to strengthen project and process execution.
• Translate business needs into actionable project goals and align project details with management expectations.
• Build and lead cross-functional project teams, motivating members to address critical opportunities and problems.
• Develop team members’ fundamental understanding and deep process knowledge; coach and institutionalize learnings in Manufacturing & Engineering systems.
• Stay aware of technology inventory in R&D and externally; advocate adoption of new technologies.
• Manage department and project budgets and forecasts; participate in monthly finance reviews.
• Foster effective people development and coaching across the engineering organization, extending mentorship beyond the immediate team. What We're Looking For
• Experience leading engineers and technicians in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to set strategy and portfolio for automation initiatives and translate business needs into actionable plans.
• Strong collaboration with Operations and Technology groups; effective cross-functional communication.
• Proficiency with automation, equipment transfers, and integrating new technologies into production (MIE) and lean staffing models.
• Budgeting, forecasting, and project management skills (PEX) with a track record of delivering results.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and people development capabilities.