Automation/Controls Supervisor

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The Automation/Controls Supervisor leads the design, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of automated systems and controls in a high-volume automotive parts assembly plant. This role ensures reliable operation of PLCs, robotics, vision systems, conveyors, and related equipment to maximize uptime, quality, safety, and throughput. The supervisor manages a team of technicians and engineers while partnering closely with production, quality, and maintenance departments

• Supervise, train, mentor, and schedule a team of automation technicians, controls engineers, and related specialists.

• Oversee the design, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization of PLC (Omron, Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), HMI, SCADA, robotics (ABB, KUKA, Fanuc preferred), vision systems, and motion control systems.

• Lead root-cause analysis and permanent corrective actions for automation-related downtime, quality issues, and process deviations.

• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, OEE improvement, and Industry 4.0 initiatives (data collection, predictive maintenance, IIoT).

• Develop and maintain documentation including control narratives, electrical schematics, PLC programs, robot programs, and standard work for automation systems.

• Ensure all automation and controls work complies with plant safety standards, Ontario electrical code (CSA), automotive quality requirements (IATF 16949), QMS (IATF16949), Health and Safety (ISO 45001), EMS (ISO14001), and security (PIP) requirements and customer specifications.

• Coordinate with equipment suppliers, integrators, and internal stakeholders during new equipment installations, upgrades, and major overhauls.

• Manage spare parts inventory for critical automation components and develop preventive/predictive maintenance strategies for controls and robotic systems.

• Support production during launches, model changes, and volume ramps by ensuring automation readiness and rapid issue resolution.

• Track and report key performance indicators (uptime, mean time to repair, first-time quality related to automation, project timelines, and team development metrics).

• Enforce lockout/tagout, arc flash, and machine guarding practices; participate in safety audits and incident investigations involving automated equipment.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and extensive hands-on experience).
• 5+ years of progressive experience in industrial automation and controls, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role, preferably in automotive manufacturing or high-volume assembly.
• Strong proficiency with PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text), HMI development, robot programming, and industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, etc.).
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting servo systems, VFDs, sensors, safety PLCs, and vision systems in a production environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, prioritize work under pressure, and deliver results in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing, TPM, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Compensation: $95,000- $115,000

At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That’s why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.

If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.