Job Title: Automation Project Manager

Who We Are: USCS is driven to advance, innovate and serve companies seeking the best service, facilities, and logistics in the cold chain. We are employee focused, an equal employment opportunity employer and would love to have you join our team.

The Job Details:

The Automation Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing and supervising the implementation of new or changed automated material handling systems.  Supervises, directs and motivates the project team during planning, estimating, design, installation, start up, commissioning, turnover and warranty of assigned projects. Ensures customer satisfaction during and at final project completion.

Primarily involves 2 areas of automation:

Project Management Construction/Commissioning/Startup Execute the projects in a leadership role based on all defined requirements – scope, schedule, and budget. Identify and resolve mechanical and technical issues during all phases of the project. Ensure quality work is completed by vendors. Ensure all equipment and designs meet industry safety standards. Training / Processes / Maintenance and Operation’s Ensure site is prepared for execution of automated facility management. Ensure proper training is achieved for each discipline. Prepare KPIs and SOPs.

The Automation Project Manager will work independently with minimal supervision to efficiently oversee all aspects of building, implementation, and commissioning of automated systems and ensure the solution meets the operating and customer requirements.  Will be responsible for coordinating execution of automation site operations to ensure successful ROI achievement.

Using Microsoft tools (Excel, MS-Project) the Automation Project Manager will manage quality, timelines, cost, and scope of the project, ensuring that all operational and customer requirements are addressed, with a focus on achieving the ROI.

This individual will be expected to assist with all reasonable requests and is also expected to maintain a professional, helpful, and cooperative demeanor toward all individuals they contact during the execution of their duties. 

Responsibilities:

Utilize engineering principles to design, develop, document, and lead cross functional matrix teams to implement automated equipment and processes into USCS Distribution Centers. Work with teams to develop drawings, assessments, cost plans, project tracking, EHS assessments, risk assessments, technical specifications, scope documents, etc. Meet agreed upon delivery dates of automation projects. Assist management and staff with vendor selection and equipment analysis, reviewing specifications and making recommendations for selection. An understanding of Control and Software philosophies for automated material handling systems is preferred. Collaborate with project team to optimize implementation of automation in the sites. Participate in ROI development to evaluate accuracy of the cost estimate and automation fit for Distribution Center profile. Follows up with appropriate management to assure understanding and satisfaction of job scope. Develop and submit specifications and bid packages as required. Acquire quotes, requisitions and purchase orders.  Manage costs, timelines, resources contracts and quality of implement services and equipment to ensure projects are on-time, within budget, and meet requirements. Collaborate with all involved departments (IT, Engineering, Operations, Safety, Finance), vendors, consultants and engineers to create effective, sound project teams. Safety is paramount with familiarity with safe work practices in automated. Ensuring safety is part of every component of automation, from the construction and implementation to the ongoing execution and maintenance. Manages the development of the project plans and holds individuals accountable for executing against agreed upon tasks. Ensure plan will successfully deliver projects that satisfy internal and external requirements. Develop communication plans and processes with all functional departments affected by assigned projects. Prepares or oversees preparation of engineering reports. Utilizes financial and monthly forecasting to manage and contain costs. Utilizes financial and monthly forecasting tools and works with other team members to monitor, manage and control costs. Prepares or oversees preparation of progress billings, pursues timely payments from the customer and authorizes payments to material suppliers and subcontractors. Participates in job site final walk through and manages the completion of all close out documentation such as As-Built drawings and system operating instructions, transfers or excess materials, billings, collections and payments, and all project records. Ensure the site is taking ownership of the Preventative Maintenance & Inspection (PMI) schedule. Drive automation improvement projects. Build a strong relationship with the management & operations teams of the Distribution Center. Drive and build upon continuous improvement through team and documentation. Interact courteously and professionally with clients, other engineers, managers, subcontractors, and other communications as assigned. Must be capable of generating thorough and comprehensive reports with computer skills including MS Office and MS Project.

The Job Specifics:

Location and Department: Camden NJ, Engineering, Automation Reports To: Senior Manager Automation Projects Travel Amount: 50% Job Type, EEO, and Job Code: Full-Time, Exempt JOB CODE

What We Are Looking For:

The Ideal candidate will have or be able to complete the below qualifications.

BS degree preferred, in Engineering, Supply Chain, Information Systems or Business. 3+ years of project management experience, preferably within automated material handling and logistics applications. Experience in leading projects from inception to conclusion. Ability to manage more than one project in various sizes and complexities, for retrofit and Greenfield applications. Ability to communicate clearly, both written and orally. Ability to schedule own tasks and handle all facets of assigned projects independently and with minimal supervision. Proficient in written and oral presentation, in writing and presenting technical documents, in explaining technical concepts tailored to the audience. Project Management software experience: MS Project or related software preferred. Strong financial and quantitative analysis highly preferred. Must be able to analyze, prioritize projects and be a self-starter.

Other Abilities You Will Need to Have: The physical demands described below are representative of those required of an individual performing the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential duties.

Good arithmetic, reading, and typing skills. Sit and/or stand for extended periods of time. Be able to see, speak and hear. Ability to work overtime as needed. May require physical effort associated with using the computer to access information, or occasional standing, walking, lifting needed to carry out everyday activities. Understand and follow verbal instruction, written instruction and company policies.  A starter that can work independently and coordinate with others. Always follow safety procedures. Ability to manage stress and productivity guidelines.

The Standard Details:

Always maintain a professional manner in appearance and communications. Participate in staff and/or customer meetings if required. Initiate action to prevent the occurrence of any non-conformities relating to product, process, and quality systems.  Identify and record any issues relating to product, processes and/or quality. Initiate, recommend, or provide solutions through appropriate channels. Verify the implementation of solutions. Always follow posted security procedures while in the building. Participate in Safety and Educational Training.

What’s In It for You:

A great company with great people. Full-time employees not under contract are offered:  401K and Educational Assistance after 1 year; If elected, Blue Cross Blue Shield after 30 days of service; Company Life Insurance; and a bunch of other great perks.

Things We Need to Mention:

The above job description may not include all tasks necessary to complete the job. Job functions may vary based on area of operation.  The job description is a listing of the most common tasks the associate will be required to perform in that job area. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.