Manager - Automation Systems Engineering Job Listing at Flex in Buffalo Grove, IL (Job ID WD222934)

Description

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world.A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary. Job Summary

The Manager of Automation Systems Engineering leads the design, development, implementation, and support of industrial automation and control systems.

This role manages a team of engineers and technicians while driving standardization, reliability, safety, and continuous improvement across 24x7 automated manufacturing or process systems

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, and deployment of automation and control systems (PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS, robotics, vision systems).
• Define automation standards, best practices, and system lifecycle strategies.
• Drive modernization initiatives, including digitalization, IIoT, and data integration.
• Ensure systems comply with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage, mentor, and develop automation/controls engineers and technicians.
• Set goals, conduct performance reviews, and support career development.
• Allocate resources effectively across projects and operational support needs.
• Foster a culture of safety, collaboration, and engineering excellence.
• Lead automation-related capital and improvement projects from concept through commissioning.
• Partner with project managers to define scope, schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
• Manage system integrators, OEMs, and technology suppliers.
• Review and approve technical documentation, FAT/SAT results, and change controls.
• Provide escalation support for automation-related production issues.
• Improve system reliability, maintainability, and uptime.
• Oversee change management, backups, version control, and cybersecurity practices.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Maintenance, IT, Quality, and EHS teams.
• Identify opportunities to improve throughput, quality, and cost using automation.
• Apply lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies where applicable.
• Track KPIs related to system performance, downtime, and project execution.
• Stay current on emerging automation technologies and industry trends.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of hire-fire engineering people management experience.
• 8+ years industry experience in industrial automation or control systems.
• Hands-on experience with PLC platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networks.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing or process environments.
• Above industry experience must be from highly regulated, high-speed automated assembly/processing / manufacturing companies or contract manufacturing, e.g. medical devices, pharmaceutical, automotive, or food processing.
• Proven ability to manage complex technical projects and cross-functional teams.
• MS Office, e.g. strong proficiency with Excel and PowerPoint, are musts.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and organizational skills, all required.

Nice to Have Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering or engineering management.
• Experience with robotics, motion control, vision systems, or MES integration.
• Knowledge of industry standards (ISA, NFPA, IEC, ISO).
• Experience with regulated industries (e.g., pharma, food & beverage, chemicals).
• PMP, PE, or similar professional certification.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Technical leadership and decision-making
• Team development and coaching
• Systems thinking and problem-solving
• Project and vendor management
• Communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Business acumen and continuous improvement mindset

What you'll receive for the great work you provide:

• Full range of medical, dental, and vision plans
• Life Insurance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability
• Matching 401(k) Contributions
• Vacation and Paid Sick Time
• Tuition Reimbursement

Application Deadline:

Applications for this job position will be accepted for at least five days following the job posting start date below and continuing until the end date below or until the position is filled. This posting may close sooner due to application volume.

Job Posting Start Date 06-15-2026 Job Posting End Date 08-21-2026

The base pay range for this position is provided below. The final base rate offered will be determined using job-related, non-discriminatory criteria, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, geographic location, education, external market data, and internal equity.

$146,700.00 USD - $201,700.00 USD Annual Job Category Production Engineering

Is Sponsorship Available?

NoFlex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email accessibility@flex.com and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).

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