Sr Operations Project Manager - Robotics - GCG Automation & Factory Solutions - Greater Detroit Area

GOGcG • Rochester Hills, MI

3d

About The Position

GCG Automation & Factory Solutions (AFS) is seeking a highly disciplined, execution-focused Operational Project Manager with 5–10 years of experience in industrial automation, specifically robotics systems, to lead complex initiatives from concept through deployment!
This role requires a leader who can bring structure, accountability, and process rigor while maintaining strong cross-functional alignment. The ideal candidate is PMP-certified, operationally grounded, and highly effective in communication and change management.
In this hands-on, customer-facing role, you’ll be responsible for leading robotics and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) projects from kickoff through commissioning and closeout. You'll not only deliver projects — you will elevate execution standards within the organization, serving as the central point of accountability for project execution and working closely with engineering, operations, vendors, and customers to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to defined technical and safety requirements.
You’ll stay close to both the technology and the customer, balancing detailed execution with clear communication and strong project leadership.
While this role requires up to 50% travel to facilitate onsite testing and project oversight work, we are ideally seeking candidates in the Greater Detroit area to facilitate collaboration with our leadership, engineering, and commercial teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, Mechatronics, or related field) or equivalent practical experience
• 5–10 years of experience managing automation or robotics projects in industrial or manufacturing environments
• PMP certification in good standing
• Hands-on experience working with industrial robotics and automation systems
• Demonstrated experience working in environments with evolving or low Project Management maturity
• Proven ability to implement structured processes in ambiguous settings
• Strong experience with robotics platforms (articulated robots, cobots, automated material handling systems)
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and system layouts
• Proven customer-facing communication and leadership skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as project needs require (location and travel expectations to be determined)

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of automation and robotics projects across manufacturing or industrial environments
• Develop structured project plans including scope, schedule, cost control, risk mitigation, and resource planning
• Apply PMP methodology aligned with standards from the Project Management Institute.
• Establish project governance, reporting cadence, and accountability mechanisms in a developing PM environment
• Drive schedule adherence, budget discipline, and performance tracking with measurable KPIs
• Introduce and reinforce project management best practices where processes may be informal or inconsistently applied
• Create clarity of roles, responsibilities, and decision rights
• Build operational discipline without creating unnecessary bureaucracy
• Coach functional teams on structured execution and risk awareness
• Influence stakeholders who may not be accustomed to formal project rigor
• Lead change management efforts related to new robotics systems, workflows, and operational processes
• Develop stakeholder communication plans that ensure alignment from shop floor to executive leadership
• Translate technical automation concepts into clear business impact narratives
• Manage resistance, resolve conflict, and align diverse teams toward common outcomes
• Deliver concise executive updates and clear escalation pathways
• Coordinate engineering, controls, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams
• Oversee robotics system integration, installation, commissioning, and ramp-up
• Ensure readiness for production including safety, training, documentation, and process validation
• Manage system integrators, robotics OEMs, and external automation partners
• Identify and mitigate technical, financial, and operational risks
• Enforce disciplined scope and change control practices

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and annual bonus based on company and individual performance
• Comprehensive health coverage with multiple plan options (CDHP and PPO)
• Company-paid life and disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, and supplemental insurance options
• Generous time off including PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, and compassionate care leave
• Wellness and support programs including EAP resources, wellness incentives, and telehealth
• Additional benefits such as dental and vision coverage, FSAs/HSAs with company contributions, pet insurance, legal services, and identity theft protection
• A people-first culture that values collaboration, development, and long-term career growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level