Automation Engineer & Plant Manager

Automation Engineer & Plant Manager Location: West of Oklahoma City, OK - onsite 5x a week Compensation: $120,000-$130,000 Base Salary plus bonus, medical, dental, vision, 401K match Position Type: Direct Hire Authorization Requirement: Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States now and in the future without sponsorship assistance. A growing manufacturing organization is seeking a hands-on Engineering & Automation Leader to support plant operations, automation initiatives, equipment integration, and long-term facility growth. This is a highly visible role that combines plant operations leadership, automation engineering, controls expertise, and process improvement responsibilities. This person will become the internal technical expert on production equipment, controls systems, automation processes, and operational scalability initiatives. This role is especially critical as the company prepares for the arrival and implementation of new production equipment and continues planning for future operational expansion and automation upgrades. Key Responsibilities Lead automation and engineering efforts tied to manufacturing equipment and production systems Support installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of new production equipment Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs, controls systems, electrical panels, and industrial automation systems Analyze production and operational data to improve equipment performance, uptime, and scalability Track motor life cycles, equipment inputs/outputs, and production capabilities Partner with vendors and equipment suppliers during implementation and startup activities Evaluate current manufacturing capacity versus future operational needs Support process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing principles, including 5S, Kaizen, and value stream management Oversee equipment quality, maintenance coordination, and operational efficiency initiatives Assist with airflow, heat management, utilities, and facility infrastructure planning for production environments Serve as a technical resource for troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, controls, and automation-related issues Help drive a proactive, continuous improvement culture within the plant environment Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred 10+ years of experience in manufacturing, plant engineering, automation, controls, or industrial operations Strong PLC programming and industrial controls experience Experience with automation systems, electrical systems, and production equipment integration Understanding of high-voltage electrical systems within industrial/manufacturing environments Experience bridging mechanical, electrical, controls, and automation functions together Background in Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, 5S, process improvement, and operational efficiency Experience supporting equipment installations, capital projects, or facility expansions strongly preferred Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities Self-starter mentality with the ability to take ownership and lead initiatives independently This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization during a major expansion and automation phase where this individual will have significant influence on future operations and manufacturing strategy.