Custom Automation Program Lead

Custom Automation Program Lead (1703595) $90k – $105k per year
Downers Grove, IL
Full Time; Direct Hire

Join a High-Impact Role in Custom Industrial Equipment Design & Delivery


Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where you manage full lifecycle engineering projects? Are you looking for an opportunity to lead multidisciplinary teams and deliver custom automated machinery that drives real-world results?

We are seeking a skilled Engineering Project Manager with experience in custom industrial automation or engineered machinery solutions. This position requires a strong understanding of electrical or mechanical systems, as well as a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects from concept through installation.

You'll work with a talented cross-functional team of engineers, designers, and fabricators to bring innovative machinery to life for a wide range of industries. You’ll serve as the primary liaison between internal teams and customers, ensuring that every solution is delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with expectations.

What You’ll Be Doing:
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules including critical path timelines and milestone targets
• Lead cross-departmental collaboration between engineering, purchasing, production, sales, and accounting
• Translate customer specifications into actionable project scope and deliverables
• Ensure technical accuracy and scope alignment during design and execution phases
• Manage cost control across all stages of the project lifecycle
• Maintain ongoing communication with clients, providing regular status updates and building long-term trust
• Conduct post-project reviews to identify opportunities for process improvement
• Travel up to 15% for site visits or customer meetings

What You Bring:
Minimum Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent technical experience
• Experience leading technical projects in a manufacturing environment
• Strong organizational, communication, and client-facing skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and scheduling tools
• Proven ability to follow through and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications :
• Hands-on experience with automated process equipment or industrial machinery
• Working knowledge of electrical or mechanical blueprints
• Understanding of industrial contract documentation and specifications
• Background in managing projects with engineered-to-order or build-to-spec components

Why This Role?
• Be the Lead: Own complex, high-impact engineering projects from start to finish
• Real Engineering: Work with innovative machinery, controls, and automation—not cookie-cutter systems
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team that values autonomy, flexibility, and professional respect
• Strong Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, Life Insurance, LTD, 401(k) with match, and educational assistance

Upon Applying:
You’ll likely receive a chatbot with basic questions, then upon receiving your timely answers it’s possible that you’ll receive additional outreach of emails, texts and/or telephone calls from our recruiting firm if you’re being considered for this or another similar position. Upon their recommendations after having discussed the position with you, it can lead to phone, virtual, and face-to-face conversations, and interviews with hiring managers at the company.

If the job description, location, and compensation, align with your qualifications, we encourage you to apply.

To explore additional opportunities, visit our job board: confidentsearchconsultants.com

Confident Search Consultants, a division of Confident Staffing, specializes in connecting engineers and qualified professionals with exceptional career opportunities across the United States.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Employees and applicants are provided a full and fair opportunity for employment, career advancement, and access to programs without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, or parental status, and will not be discriminated against for any other legally protected group or status.