Description
The East Coast Automation and Service Manager is responsible for executing the operational strategy of the Packaging Automation Group (PAG) across the East Coast region for Pratt Agriculture. This role focuses on regional implementation of national standards, efficient flow of capital equipment (CapEx), coordination of automation projects, technician deployment, and ensuring consistency in processes, systems, and service delivery. The position serves as a key operational leader, bridging national strategy with field execution, while driving efficiency, accountability, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Regional Operations Execution
- Execute and uphold national PAG operational standards, processes, and initiatives across the East Coast region.
- Ensure operational readiness, responsiveness, and service quality across all assigned locations.
- Identify and communicate opportunities for continuous improvement to national leadership.
CapEx & Automation Procurement Management
- Manage the regional execution of the internal CapEx process for new automation purchases.
- Utilize and continuously improve the PAG Capex Tracking process to ensure visibility and accountability.
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely CapEx approvals and processing.
- Oversee automation order execution, ensuring:
- Required documentation is completed accurately and on time.
- Corrugated samples are provided for engineering and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT).
- Vendor payment schedules are followed.
- FAT schedules are coordinated with appropriate personnel.
CMMS (Limble) Support and Execution
- Maintain active use and working knowledge of Limble CMMS software.
- Support the National Business Systems Manager with:
- Execution and optimization of CMMS thin the Spare Parts Rooms.
- Field technician utilization of CMMS at customer sites.
- Promote compliance, accuracy, and accountability in system usage.
Vendor & Purchasing Support
- Serve as a backup for spare parts purchasing as needed.
- Assist in managing vendor relationships in alignment with national direction.
- Support vendor qualification and onboarding efforts.
Project & Shop Operations Management
- Lead and manage automation projects, as directed, from initiation through completion in alignment with national standards.
- Lead semi-weekly project meetings to track progress, resolve issues, and escalate risks.
- Oversee machine re-tooling, with the guidance of the shop foreman, and upgrades within regional shops.
- Lead weekly shop production meetings to ensure timelines, quality, and efficiency targets are met.
- Receive, review, and manage all service documentation completed by technicians, including:
- Preventative Maintenance Reports
- Service call work orders
- Maintain organized digital and physical records of all the technicians service activities.
Asset & Fleet Management
- Ensure the Master Machine List is consistently updated and validated.
- Maintain accurate tracking of all automation equipment within the region.
- Conduct semi-annual reviews with technicians to confirm machine locations.
- Coordinate internal machine movements between warehouses, shops, and customer sites.
Technician Scheduling & Field Operations
- Manage technician scheduling, including weekly assignments, seasonal planning, and vacations.
- Improve scheduling processes to enhance communication, efficiency and transparency.
- Dispatch technicians to respond to customer needs and emergency situations.
- Provide input on technician account assignment and reassignments to optimize coverage and performance.
Training, Safety, & Development
- Ensure technician safety training records are current and compliant.
- Coordinate vendor-led and internal technical training opportunities.
- Facilitate leadership development through enrollment in Pratt U courses.
- Support continuous skill development and operational readiness of field technicians.
Administrative & Operational Support
- Support technician recruiting efforts as needed.
- Approve designated technician expense reports in accordance with company policy.
- Support trade shows and industry events as needed to represent automation capabilities.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 5-8+ years of experience in automation, industrial service, or operations management.
- Experience coordinating projects, field service teams, and vendor relationships.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Working knowledge of automation systems and industrial equipment.
- Experience with CMMS platforms (Limble preferred).
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and cross-functional coordination skills.
- Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail.
- Proficiency in scheduling, tracking systems, and operational reporting.
Work Environment & Expectations
- Regional role covering East Coast operations with periodic travel.
- Combination of office, shop, warehouse, vendor, and customer site environments.
- Requires responsiveness to urgent service needs and operational demands.
