Job DescriptionWhat you will be doing
The Automation Reliability Program Manager - Distribution Automation is responsible for leading and governing automation maintenance and reliability programs across multiple automated distribution centers. This role provides enterprise-level ownership of maintenance standards, performance management, training, and continuous improvement for advanced warehouse automation systems, with a primary focus on case automation platforms including Witron, Dematic, Symbotic, and KNAPP.
This position operates as a corporate, multi-site role and partners closely with site maintenance leaders, corporate automation, engineering, IT, and OEM service organizations to drive equipment uptime, reliability, cost efficiency, and workforce capability. While not a resident, hands-on maintenance role, this position requires sufficient technical depth to coach teams, troubleshoot complex issues, and serve as the escalation point for automation reliability challenges.
Travel is expected to be 30-50% across the distribution center network.
Main responsibilities:
Automation Systems Reliability & Maintenance Governance
- Own automation maintenance and reliability standards across multiple distribution centers, ensuring consistency and best-in-class practices.
- Lead predictive and preventive maintenance strategies for advanced automation systems, including conveyors, sortation, AS/RS, shuttle systems, robotics, and AGVs.
- Serve as the technical escalation and coaching resource for site maintenance and reliability leaders.
- Partner with automation OEMs and integrators (Witron, Dematic, Symbotic, KNAPP) on system support, lifecycle management, and reliability improvements.
- Establish governance for critical spare parts strategies, inventory optimization, obsolescence management, and procurement alignment.
Training, Certification & Workforce Development
- Design, implement, and continuously improve formal automation maintenance training programs and certification paths for internal technicians.
- Establish and manage automation training centers to support skill development and succession planning across the network.
- Define competency standards and certification requirements for automation maintenance personnel.
- Track training completion, certification compliance, and skills readiness across all supported facilities.
Performance Management, KPIs & Reporting
- Define, standardize, and manage network-level KPIs, including system uptime, MTTR, downtime drivers, and maintenance cost performance.
- Analyze site performance trends and identify systemic reliability risks and improvement opportunities.
- Prepare and deliver Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) with data-driven insights and actionable recommendations for senior leadership.
- Ensure accurate and consistent maintenance data entry for automation assets, work history, and parts usage.
Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
- Collaborate with corporate automation, engineering, IT, and operations teams on system upgrades, modifications, and future automation deployments.
- Support integration of maintenance strategies with CMMS/EAM systems, data analytics platforms, and reporting tools.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives that enhance reliability, safety, and lifecycle cost performance.
- Influence site leadership through data, standards, and coaching without direct line authority.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Deep understanding of warehouse automation maintenance and reliability in high-volume distribution environments.
- Demonstrated experience with large-scale case automation systems, preferably Witron, Dematic, Symbotic, and/or KNAPP.
- Strong knowledge of predictive and preventive maintenance methodologies applied to automation.
- Proven ability to develop and deploy multi-site maintenance standards and training programs.
- KPI-driven mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with frontline technicians through executive leadership.
- Comfortable operating in a matrixed organization with indirect influence.
We are looking for candidates who possess the following:
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field (preferred).
- Working knowledge of maintenance operations and industrial automation systems.
Experience:
- 7+ years of experience in automation maintenance, reliability, or engineering roles.
- Prior experience in multi-site or network-level automation support is strongly preferred.
- Hands-on exposure to conveyor systems, robotics, AGVs, AS/RS, and controls-based automation.
Experience partnering with automation OEMs and system integrators
Performance Metrics
- System uptime and reliability (>98% uptime for automation systems).
- Reduction in maintenance costs through high-quality maintenance practices.
- Timely delivery of QBRs and actionable insights.
- 100% technician certification within defined timelines.
Working Conditions
- Work performed in both office and warehouse environments, including temperature-controlled office settings
- Extended periods sitting at desk or computer terminal
- Potential hazards from machinery (forklifts, pallet jacks, mechanized systems, trucks, trailers, etc.)
Fast-paced work environment
- Equipment Used
- Office equipment (PC, FAX, Scanner, Copier, etc.)
- Analytical equipment (Infrared Imaging, Amp Draw Gauge, VOM, Data Logger, etc.)
We also provide a variety of benefits including:
- Competitive wages paid weekly
- Associate discounts
- Health and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical, Dental, 401k and more!)
- Time off (vacation, holidays, sick pay). For eligibility requirements please visit myACI Benefits
- Leaders invested in your training, career growth and development
- An inclusive work environment with talented colleagues who reflect the communities we serve
A copy of the full job description can be made available to you.
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About the TeamPay Transparency:Starting rates will be no less than the local minimum wage and may vary based on criteria such as location, experience, and qualifications.
Candidates with unique qualifications may be considered for compensation above this range. Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance, sick pay, PTO/Vacation Pay or Flexible Time Off, paid holidays, bereavement pay, and retirement benefits (pension and/or 401k eligibility). [If applicable:] Associates in this position may be eligible for a quarterly bonus.
