Job Title: Aerospace Automation Engineer

Job Summary:

The Aerospace Automation Engineer Manager is responsible for leading the development, integration, and optimization of automation systems within aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and testing operations. This managerial role requires overseeing a team of engineers and technicians to ensure automation systems improve operational efficiency, precision, and safety while meeting regulatory and performance standards. The Aerospace Automation Engineer Manager will collaborate with senior management, engineers, and cross-functional teams to align automation strategies with organizational goals and drive continuous improvement in aerospace automation systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Team Management:

   • Lead and manage a team of aerospace automation engineers and technicians, providing direction, mentorship, and support to ensure the successful implementation of automation solutions.
   • Oversee team operations, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of projects, meeting safety standards, and adhering to industry regulations.
   • Set clear objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the team and evaluate performance through regular reviews and feedback.
   • Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment, encouraging team members to share ideas and solve problems creatively.

2. Strategic Planning and Project Management:

   • Develop and execute strategies for the design, integration, and optimization of aerospace automation systems across various manufacturing and testing processes.
   • Lead the planning and execution of large-scale automation projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet technical specifications.
   • Coordinate the allocation of resources, track project progress, and manage risks to ensure successful project delivery.
   • Act as the primary point of contact for all aerospace automation-related projects and initiatives, managing communication between senior management, engineering teams, and other stakeholders.

3. System Integration and Optimization:

   • Oversee the integration of advanced automation systems (e.g., robotics, PLCs, SCADA) into aerospace platforms, ensuring seamless system performance and compatibility.
   • Lead efforts to optimize system performance, increasing efficiency, reducing downtime, and enhancing precision and safety in aerospace manufacturing and testing.
   • Ensure that automation solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of aerospace platforms, and align with both operational goals and regulatory requirements.

4. Troubleshooting and Complex Problem Resolution:

   • Provide leadership in troubleshooting complex automation system issues, coordinating with engineers and technicians to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
   • Address critical system failures that may impact operational continuity, ensuring prompt resolution and minimal disruptions to production.
   • Lead post-mortem analysis of significant system issues, developing solutions and strategies to prevent recurrence.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Assurance:

   • Ensure that all automation systems comply with industry safety standards, regulations (e.g., FAA, EASA), and internal policies.
   • Manage the documentation and certification processes required for system compliance, ensuring all systems are fully vetted and meet legal and operational safety requirements.
   • Conduct regular safety audits and implement improvements to enhance system reliability and safety.

6. Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

   • Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance system performance, reduce costs, and integrate new automation technologies.
   • Stay informed about emerging technologies in automation and aerospace, evaluating and recommending new tools and processes for integration.
   • Promote a culture of innovation by encouraging team members to explore new ideas, experiment with new technologies, and implement industry best practices.

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

   • Collaborate with engineering, operations, quality assurance, and other departments to align automation systems with broader organizational goals.
   • Serve as the liaison between management, project teams, and external stakeholders, ensuring smooth communication and efficient problem-solving.
   • Work with external vendors and suppliers to select and source the best automation technologies and components for aerospace applications.

8. Budget and Resource Management:

   • Develop and manage budgets for aerospace automation projects, ensuring effective allocation of resources and adherence to financial constraints.
   • Track project expenses, ensuring that costs are managed effectively while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
   • Oversee resource planning, ensuring that the team has access to the necessary tools, equipment, and training to complete their tasks efficiently.

9. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Ensure that all automation system designs, testing activities, performance evaluations, and troubleshooting efforts are thoroughly documented.
   • Prepare and present technical reports, project updates, and performance data to senior management, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders.
   • Maintain a repository of technical documentation for all aerospace automation systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and internal quality assurance processes.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Strong experience in designing, developing, and integrating aerospace automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and control systems.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace systems, including avionics, propulsion, and flight control systems, as well as their automation needs.
• Proven project management skills, with experience leading large-scale aerospace automation projects, managing budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to resolve complex technical issues in a timely and efficient manner.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards (e.g., FAA, EASA) and safety protocols for aerospace automation systems.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities, including mentoring junior engineers, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring high team performance.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement and innovation, incorporating the latest automation technologies and methodologies into aerospace systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to liaise with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Relevant certifications in industrial automation, control systems, or aerospace systems (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, FAA certifications) are desirable.

Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in aerospace systems, automation, or industrial control systems, with at least 3 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• Extensive experience in aerospace automation, including PLC programming, robotics, SCADA systems, and control systems.
• Proven track record of managing complex automation projects, optimizing system performance, and leading cross-functional teams.
• Hands-on experience with troubleshooting, testing, and optimizing aerospace automation systems.
• Experience working with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with aerospace industry safety and performance standards.

Tools and Technologies:

• Expertise in PLC programming and industrial control systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation).
• Experience with SCADA systems, automation design tools, and industrial control software (e.g., FactoryTalk, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Familiarity with simulation and testing software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, LabVIEW).
• Knowledge of data analysis and performance monitoring tools.

Other Requirements:

• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• A commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and regulatory compliance in aerospace automation systems.
• Willingness to travel to aerospace facilities, testing locations, or client sites as required.