Automation Engineering Lead

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Job Description: The Senior Lead Automation Engineer will play a key role in influencing the future of healthcare logistics operations through the evaluation, design, and implementation of cutting-edge automation solutions. This individual will lead high visibility end-to-end projects, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and develop scalable automation-driven systems that improve operational performance across ambient, cold chain, and regulated distribution environments. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with project leadership and a passion for innovation.

Additional Information:

• Must be currently located in the same geographic location as the job or willing to relocate yourself – Required

• Location: KYLSE, 2240 Outer Loop, Louisville, KY 40219

• Job Level: Supervisor

• Internal Salary Grade: 20G

• Work Schedule: M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• Internal applicants must apply by end of day Friday, 9/18/26

Key Responsibilities:

Automation Strategy & Innovation

• Identify, evaluate, and recommend emerging automation technologies that support business growth and operational excellence.

• Assess new applications for existing automation platforms and develop long-term automation roadmaps.

• Maintain industry expertise on automation trends, best practices, and technological advancements.

Solution Design & Implementation

• Design and implement automation solutions for dedicated and multi-client distribution environments.

• Lead the development of business requirements, process flows, operational workflows, equipment specifications, and facility layouts.

• Support automation deployments through system configuration, testing, commissioning, and operational readiness activities.

• Develop repeatable deployment methodologies and implementation standards that enable scalable growth.

Validation & Compliance

• Lead and support IQ/OQ/PQ validation efforts in partnership with Quality Assurance teams.

• Ensure solutions meet regulatory, operational, and customer-specific requirements.

• Develop validation documentation, standard operating procedures, and work instructions.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Facilitate collaboration among Operations, Engineering, IT, Quality, and external vendors to ensure successful project execution.

• Lead stakeholder discussions to evaluate automation feasibility and business impact.

• Manage project milestones, risks, dependencies, and resource requirements throughout the project lifecycle.

Analytics & Continuous Improvement

• Conduct engineering studies, operational assessments, and data-driven analyses to support decision-making.

• Develop capacity models, equipment strategies, performance metrics, and optimization plans.

• Present recommendations, project updates, and business cases to senior leadership.

Team Development

• Mentor and support engineering team members through coaching, knowledge sharing, and project collaboration.

• Assist with training initiatives and continuous improvement efforts across the organization.

Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (Engineering, Robotics, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Automation, or related).

• 5+ years leading automation, engineering, logistics, or distribution center implementation projects.

• Experience managing projects from design and business case development through implementation.

• Strong knowledge of industrial automation, material handling systems, equipment integration, and process improvement.

• Proficiency in project management, data analysis, Microsoft Office, and AutoCAD.

• Strong analytical, communication, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills.

The following qualifications are highly desirable and will help candidates stand out:

• Experience with warehouse automation technologies, including AMRs, AGVs, conveyor/sortation systems, robotic picking solutions, scanning/vision systems, put-wall technologies, and ASRS.

• Knowledge of healthcare logistics and distribution operations, including cold chain, controlled substances, dangerous goods, and regulated healthcare environments.

• Experience supporting healthcare-related customers such as pharmaceutical, medical device, nutraceutical, animal health, and vaccine manufacturers.

• Understanding of warehouse technology platforms, including WMS, WES, and WCS.

• Experience with equipment commissioning, validation, and quality assurance processes.

• Strong knowledge of financial analysis, capital planning, ROI modeling, and business case development.

• Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certification and/or experience.

• Experience leading or supporting automation deployments across multi-site distribution networks.

Employee Type: Permanent UPS is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Other Criteria: UPS is an equal opportunity employer. UPS does not discriminate on the basis of race/color/religion/sex/national origin/veteran/disability/age/sexual orientation/gender identity or any other characteristic protected by law.

Basic Qualifications: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National of the U.S., an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or an alien authorized to work in the U.S. for this employer.