We're a fast-growing organization seeking an experienced Sr. Manager, System Development who specializes in advanced manufacturing systems, medium machining operations, and AI-driven automation to lead the design and optimization of high-volume manufacturing facilities for industrial equipment.

This senior technical leader will own our smart manufacturing strategy end-to-end — from factory automation architecture and OT systems integration to AI/ML deployment at the edge. You are a systems thinker who understands how machines, software, data, and people interact across the full manufacturing stack. You bring hands-on experience with medium machining environments (roll forming, laser cutting, robotic assembly, powder coating) and know how to translate that domain knowledge into scalable, intelligent production systems.

You are a data-driven decision-maker who leverages digital twin modeling, simulation, and AI-powered analytics to rapidly evaluate options and drive decisive action. You bridge the gap between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), and you know how to architect systems — not just manage them.

Key job responsibilities
Systems Architecture & AI Integration

- Lead the design and implementation of AI-enhanced manufacturing systems, including SCADA, MES, PLC integration, edge computing, and IT/OT convergence layers

- Define and own the factory automation architecture, establishing integration standards across industrial protocols, data exchange formats, and AI inference pipelines

- Deploy AI/ML models at the edge to enable real-time process control, predictive maintenance, and automated quality inspection

- Develop and validate advanced factory simulation and digital twin models to optimize production flow, capacity, and system interactions

- Medium Machining & Process Engineering

- Apply deep knowledge of medium machining processes — including automated roll forming, laser cutting, powder coating, and robotic assembly cells — to drive process design and optimization

- Lead make-vs-buy decisions and evaluate supplier manufacturing capabilities using advanced analytics and systems-level thinking

- Drive smart factory layout planning and production line balancing with a focus on high-mix, high-volume operations with frequent program changes

Team Leadership & Organizational Development

- Lead and develop a team of systems development engineers spanning automation engineering, process engineering, industrial engineering, robotics, and manufacturing systems

- Mentor engineers in emerging technologies including AI/ML integration, OT systems, and Industry 4.0 toolsets

- Establish technical standards, best practices, and a culture of continuous improvement across the manufacturing systems organization

- Build a systems-first, AI-native engineering organization with differentiated capabilities across automation and process disciplines

Strategy & Executive Influence

- Develop comprehensive smart manufacturing strategies aligned with business objectives and growth targets

- Interface with and influence executive leadership to define manufacturing vision, resource requirements, and investment priorities for new operations

- Drive rapid, data-backed decision-making using AI-powered analytics, predictive modeling, and real-time manufacturing metrics