Project Manager - Automation

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What we offer:
At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.
Group Summary:
The Magna Exteriors portfolio of products includes access systems such as liftgates, exterior trim, modular systems, front-end modules including fascia, active aerodynamic systems and other lightweight structural components for automotive, commercial truck and other industrial markets.
Recognized globally as an innovator in all aspects of vehicle exteriors, Magna provides everything needed, from materials development and design through manufacturing and assembly, to help automakers create sleek, state-of-the-art vehicles across the world.
Job Responsibilities:
SALARY:
$110,000 - $115,000
VACANCY STATUS:
Immediate, Open Position
RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for leading the planning, implementation, and optimization of assigned automation projects and workstreams that support advanced manufacturing and operational excellence
• This role drives the successful delivery of automation initiatives by collaborating with other Project Leads, Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, IT, Quality, and external partners to deploy scalable, safe, and reliable automation solutions
• This role is instrumental in helping the organization become a Factory of the Future
• Lead end-to-end assigned automation projects and workstreams in support of the Factory of the Future roadmap, from concept development and business case creation through design, implementation, commissioning, and post-launch optimization
• Partner with cross-functional teams and other Project Leads to define project scope, technical requirements, timelines, budgets, and success measures for automation initiatives
• Coordinate internal resources and external vendors, system integrators, and equipment suppliers to ensure assigned projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to specifications
• Support the design and integration of automation technologies such as robotics, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, machine vision, SCADA, MES, and industrial network systems
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory standards throughout project execution and system implementation
• Lead risk assessments, issue resolution, and change management activities to minimize operational disruption and support successful adoption of new technologies
• Track and report project milestones, budgets, risks, and performance outcomes to leadership
• Drive standardization of automation practices, documentation, controls architecture, and implementation methods across projects
• Collaborate with plant teams and other Project Leads to support equipment validation, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement efforts following deployment
• Promote workforce capability by supporting training, knowledge transfer, and user readiness for new automated systems and digital tools
• Stay current on emerging smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0, and automation technologies to recommend solutions that support future scalability and competitive advantage
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity
• Report all accidents/incidents and unsafe conditions/behavior
• Train employees on the specific job hazards
• Enforce safety rules and correct unsafe acts or conditions
• Be involved in the accident/incident investigation process
• Inform Plastcoat Management of any additional training or resources required by their employees to effectively perform their work
• Perform all job functions in a safe and healthful manner, abiding by all health, safety and environmental rules and regulations, promoting safety in the workplace
• Comply with the requirements of CTPAT/PIP
• Conduct business in an ethical manner in compliance with the Magna Code of Conduct
• Adhere to applicable quality systems and IATF 16949 standards
• Adhere to and promote the Employee Charter and work within the rules, regulations and guidelines of the Plastcoat Employee Handbook
• Participate in and support Continuous Improvement initiatives
• Maintain work area in accordance with the principles of 5S and operate daily within these standards
• Ensure work area is kept neat and organized
• Perform other duties as required

QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION:

• Minimum completion of a college diploma / University degree in a technical field, or equivalent experience
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field
• Knowledge of manufacturing safety standards, machine safeguarding, and risk assessment practices
• Knowledge of data analytics, digital dashboards, traceability systems, and connected factory solutions.
• Certification or training in project management, Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or automation platforms

EXPERIENCE:

• 5+ years of experience leading automation, controls, manufacturing engineering, or industrial technology projects in a manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional projects involving automation equipment, process improvements, or digital manufacturing systems
• Experience with project planning, budgeting, scheduling, vendor coordination, and implementation tracking
• Experience supporting Factory of the Future, Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, or digital transformation initiatives
• Exposure to automated assembly, robotics integration, autonomous material handling, industrial IoT, or data-driven manufacturing systems
• Experience working with system integrators, OEMs, and external technology providers

SKILLS:

• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, sensors, machine vision, SCADA, MES, and industrial communication protocols
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple functions
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:
At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.
AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure
As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.
Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.
If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.
Worker Type:
Regular / Permanent
Group:
Magna Exteriors