Maintenance & Automation Manager

We are seeking a highly experienced Maintenance & Automation Manager to lead and optimize maintenance operations and automated manufacturing systems. This role is responsible for ensuring maximum equipment uptime, improving automation performance, and driving continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced industrial environment.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in robotics, PLC programming, and manufacturing process optimization , along with strong leadership skills to manage multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and manage multidisciplinary maintenance teams (electrical, mechanical, and automation).
• Design and implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs to ensure equipment reliability and production continuity.
• Drive automation strategies and improvements across manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex failures in PLC systems, robotics, and automated production cells .
• Oversee robotics programming and modifications (FANUC, Motoman, ABB).
• Manage and optimize PLC systems including Siemens (Step 5/Step 7), WinCC , and RS Logix platforms.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, line balancing, waste reduction).
• Develop and maintain process documentation :
• AMEF (FMEA)
• Process Flow Diagrams
• Standard Work Instructions
• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) using methodologies such as 5 Whys and Cause-and-Effect diagrams.
• Implement Poka-Yoke systems to reduce defects and improve product quality.
• Monitor and report maintenance KPIs and performance metrics to leadership.
• Support new product launches and equipment integration into automated cells.
• Coach and develop automation and robotics technicians .
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, engineering, and quality teams.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related field .
• Minimum 8–10+ years of experience in maintenance, automation, or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong hands-on experience with:
• PLC programming (Siemens Step 5/7, Allen Bradley)
• Industrial robotics (FANUC, Motoman, ABB)
• Automated production systems and manufacturing cells
• Proven experience in troubleshooting complex automation systems .
• Knowledge of preventive and predictive maintenance methodologies .
• Experience with continuous improvement tools (Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing).
• Strong leadership and team management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in automotive or metal-mechanics industry .
• Exposure to blow molding, welding processes, or press/assembly operations .
• International experience or training in manufacturing environments.
• Certification or advanced training in automation or robotics .

Languages

• Spanish: Native
• English: Advanced