The Director – Automation and Mechanical Systems is responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of automation technologies and mechanical systems to enhance operational efficiency, product reliability, and manufacturing scalability. This position plays a key role in driving innovation, integrating smart technologies, and aligning automation strategies with business and engineering goals. The director will oversee multidisciplinary teams and partner with cross-functional departments to deliver high-impact solutions in industrial automation, robotics, controls, and mechanical systems.
Strategic Leadership:
Define and execute automation and mechanical engineering strategy to support digital transformation and smart factory initiatives.
Develop long-term roadmaps for systems integration, robotics deployment, and mechanical innovations.
System Design & Integration:
Oversee design and development of automated equipment, material handling systems, custom machinery, and mechanical subsystems.
Ensure seamless integration between hardware (mechanical systems), controls, and software (PLCs, SCADA, HMI).
Project Management:
Lead large-scale automation and mechanical projects from concept to commissioning.
Manage scope, cost, timeline, and quality across internal and vendor-driven initiatives.
Process Optimization:
Drive continuous improvement through automation in manufacturing, assembly, inspection, and logistics processes.
Implement predictive maintenance and condition monitoring using IIoT tools.
Innovation & R&D:
Evaluate emerging automation technologies such as cobots, AGVs, machine vision, and digital twins.
Pilot new mechanical solutions and automation systems to enhance productivity and reduce manual intervention.
Team Leadership & Development:
Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, automation engineers, controls specialists, and technicians.
Build a collaborative, performance-oriented engineering culture.
Compliance & Safety:
Ensure systems comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO, CE, UL, OSHA, IEC).
Incorporate safety interlocks, risk assessments, and ergonomic design in automation systems.
Automation Engineering & Systems Integration
Mechanical Design & Robotics Application
Industry 4.0 / Smart Manufacturing Initiatives
Control Systems (PLC, SCADA, HMI)
Material Handling, Motion Control, and Custom Machinery
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Plant Support
Proficient in mechanical system design, automation architecture, and electromechanical integration.
Strong knowledge of PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics (ABB, Fanuc, KUKA), and SCADA/HMI.
Ability to align automation initiatives with business strategy and operational goals.
Forward-thinking in adopting digital tools and smart systems.
Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary technical teams across large engineering organizations.
Skilled at driving collaboration between engineering, operations, maintenance, and IT teams.
Experienced in managing large automation projects and implementing lean automation solutions.
Strong understanding of process control, machine safety, and reliability engineering.
Excellent stakeholder communication and external vendor coordination skills.
Education:
B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical, or Automation Engineering (required)
M.E./MBA or Master’s in Automation/Robotics/Engineering Management (preferred)
Certifications (Preferred):
PMP, Six Sigma, TUV Functional Safety, or Robotics Programming Certifications
Experience:
15+ years of experience in mechanical and automation engineering
7+ years in a leadership or director-level role managing automation projects and engineering teams
Industry background in automotive, electronics, FMCG, energy, or heavy manufacturing