Manufacturing & Automation Manager
We are partnering with a well-established manufacturer in the Twin Cities metro to identify an Automation & Manufacturing Manager. This is an opportunity to lead a talented engineering team, accelerate robotics and automation initiatives, and drive meaningful improvements across manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate brings a strong technical foundation, proven project leadership, and the ability to build a culture of continuous improvement while collaborating across the organization.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team of mechanical, electrical, and robotics engineers, providing direction, coaching, and support while removing roadblocks to execution.
- Drive manufacturing automation initiatives from concept through implementation, commissioning, and production handoff.
- Oversee robotics and automation projects involving CNC machine tending, injection molding, laser marking, and related production processes.
- Lead capital projects and new-product introduction initiatives, ensuring alignment with operational priorities, timelines, and business objectives.
- Champion Lean manufacturing and continuous-improvement initiatives to improve productivity, quality, efficiency, and process consistency.
- Establish standards, processes, and documentation to support sustainable automation and operational improvements.
- Partner with manufacturing, engineering, and cross-functional stakeholders to prioritize projects and implement organizational change.
- Maintain a balance of strategic leadership, project management, and hands-on engagement with shop-floor operations.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in engineering.
- 10+ years of manufacturing experience. 4+ years managing a team.
- Demonstrated experience implementing industrial automation, robotics, or manufacturing engineering projects.
- Experience leading capital projects from initial concept through implementation and production handoff.
- Leadership or project leadership experience, with the ability to develop technical talent and drive accountability.
- Working knowledge of Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or related operational excellence methodologies.
- Strong communication, collaboration, prioritization, and change-management skills.
- Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels and adapt to changing business and production priorities.
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ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
Start with your Short List
Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
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Our practice areas are led by highly experienced executive recruiters who take great care in fully understanding client requirements and candidate qualifications.
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Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
