Director of Automation

Description

We are a fast-moving startup developing breakthrough digital printing technology for optical lens coatings. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Automation to lead our multidisciplinary Automation group. This key leadership role holds disciplinary responsibility over the mechanics, software, control, and electrical engineering teams. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic startup environment, driving the team forward with a strong sense of ownership, excellent interpersonal skills, and a collaborative mindset. You will oversee the development of cutting-edge technologies, manage the delivery of the software and control systems, and ensure successful technological implementations at customer sites.

Key Responsibilities:

- Multidisciplinary Leadership: Provide direct management and disciplinary leadership for the mechanics, software, control, and electrical engineering teams.
- Delivery Management: Lead and manage complex software and control plans from concept through development to successful deployment.
- Technology Development & Innovation: Drive the research, design, and development of new automation technologies to enhance our industrial equipment platforms.
- Customer Implementation & Support: Oversee the deployment and integration of new technologies, ensuring seamless implementation at customer site and providing ongoing top-tier support.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Foster a culture of exceptional teamwork and cross-functional collaboration. Work closely with other R&D groups: System Engineering, Process, Materials, Integration & Testing as well as with Operations and Customer support.
- Execution & Ownership: Take full ownership of the Automation roadmap. Push projects forward proactively, overcome obstacles in a fast-paced environment, and lead the team to meet ambitious technological and business milestones.

REQUIREMENTS

- Education & Experience
- B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- Extensive, proven management experience leading multidisciplinary teams (specifically encompassing mechanics, software, control, and electrical disciplines).
- Demonstrated experience working and thriving in the dynamic, fast-paced environment of a startup.
- Advantage: Previous experience in the printing industry.

Technical Skills

- Deep understanding and hands-on background in multi-disciplinary machine development, automation, motion control, and software architecture.
- Proven track record in managing complete technological lifecycles, from R&D to field deployment and customer support.

Leadership Skills

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- A proactive "driver" who pushes execution forward with high energy and dedication.
- Strong sense of accountability, capable of taking full ownership and leading by example.
- Outstanding teamwork capabilities with the ability to build strong, collaborative relationships across the organization.

Key Competencies:

- Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, fast-moving environments.
- Holistic, system-level thinking combined with deep technical domain expertise.
- Customer-centric approach to field implementation and technical support.