About the Role
As a CBRE Technical Manager focused on automation, you will serve as the technical specialist and subject-matter expert for advanced automated material handling and robotics systems. You will provide hands-on technical guidance, training, and troubleshooting support to the automation technician team. This role concentrates on elevating technical capability across ASRS crane racking systems, Kuka Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Gideon self-guided forklifts, Cognex vision/scanning systems, conveyors, and related controls. You will drive continuous improvement of maintenance practices, standards, and knowledge transfer without direct people-management responsibilities. This position is part of the Engineering and Technical Services job function.
What You'll Do
• Act as the primary technical resource for the automation technician team, providing real-time guidance, coaching, and knowledge transfer on complex automated systems.
• Lead advanced troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for ASRS crane systems, AMRs, autonomous forklifts, Cognex vision systems, conveyors, sensors, drives, and related electromechanical and controls equipment.
• Develop, refine, and implement preventive and predictive maintenance strategies specific to automation assets. Continuously improve work instructions, troubleshooting guides, and technical standards.
• Train and mentor technicians on proper diagnostic techniques, OEM procedures, electrical/mechanical schematics interpretation, CMMS documentation, and safe work practices around automated equipment.
• Coordinate technical efforts with OEMs, external service providers, and internal stakeholders to resolve complex issues and support system upgrades or modifications.
• Maintain strong technical documentation, including as-built drawings, system configurations, and updated maintenance procedures for all assigned automation assets.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and recommend process or equipment improvements that enhance reliability, uptime, and operational efficiency.
• Support communication with client operations, facility leadership, and vendors on technical matters related to automation performance and reliability.
• Respond to escalated technical issues and urgent equipment failures, providing expert-level support to restore operations quickly and safely.
• Model CBRE RISE values and apply deep technical knowledge of automation systems while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Identify, diagnose, and resolve moderately complex to advanced technical issues that impact system performance, reliability, or safety.
What You'll Need
• Bachelor's Degree preferred with 3-5 years of relevant experience in industrial automation, robotics, mechatronics, or related technical fields. In lieu of a degree, a combination of experience and education will be considered.
• Strong hands-on experience with automated material handling systems such as ASRS, AMRs/AGVs, autonomous industrial vehicles, vision systems, conveyors, and industrial controls.
• Proven ability to train, coach, and technically guide technicians without formal supervisory authority.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and controls domains, including the ability to interpret complex schematics and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with CMMS platforms, preventive/predictive maintenance programs, and technical documentation standards.
• In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
• Strong organizational skills, technical curiosity, and the ability to communicate complex technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across teams to achieve shared technical and operational goals.Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Applicant AI Use Disclosure
We value human interaction to understand each candidate's unique experience, skills and aspirations. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to make hiring decisions, and we ask that candidates disclose any use of AI in the application and interview process.
