POSITION SUMMARY

The Automation Manager is responsible for safely leading all automation, programming, and instrumentation maintenance efforts in the manufacturing plant while advancing new technologies and driving continuous improvement. Executing direction set by the Director and ensuring consistent performance across their team. This position is accountable for team performance, operational results, and developing front-line leadership capability. This role plays a critical part in driving consistency, reinforcing standards, and ensuring that systems, processes, and expectations are effectively implemented to support Valley Queen's operational and business objectives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Owns the day-to-day performance of department, ensuring safety, quality, and operational standards are consistently met along with schedules, staffing plans, and processes.
• Executes departmental goals and priorities aligned with company strategy.
• Establishes, monitors, and delivers KPI's aligned with departmental and organizational goals.
• Leads and develops Supervisors and Leads to ensure strong execution and team effectiveness.
• Reinforces culture, expectations, and leadership behaviors established by the organization.
• Ensures role clarity and accountability across their team to drive efficient operations.
• Builds and maintains a highly engaged, performance-driven team environment.
• Supports talent development by coaching employees and identifying growth opportunities.
• Drives accountability through regular performance discussions and follow-up.
• Identifies operational challenges and implements solutions to improve performance.
• Ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Executes continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency and cost control.
• Utilizes data and metrics to improve decision-making and performance.
• Supports budget adherence by managing resources effectively.
• Coordinates and supports execution of projects within scope and timelines.
• Communicates effectively across departments.
• Partners with cross-functional teams to improve operations.

COMPETENCIES

• Leadership / Accountability
• Business Acumen
• Communication Proficiency
• Problem Solving / Analysis
• Technical Capacity

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position supervises supervisors, leads, and/or employees and is responsible for the day-to-day direction, coordination, and performance management of the assigned team.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands for this position primarily involve sedentary and light activity. The employee may be required to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

TRAVEL

This position will require occasional travel.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience in the applicable area of responsibility. Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience, including at least two (2) years demonstrated success leading teams and delivering results is essential.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Experience in dairy processing or manufacturing. Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

OTHER DUTIES

This job description is not designed to cover all duties. Responsibilities may change at any time.

Monday-Friday Schedule