The Role
The Sr. Automation Engineer is a recognized professional in supplier automation assessment and manufacturing optimization. This role leads strategic initiatives to evaluate and elevate supplier automation capabilities, with a focus on material handling, material flow, and integration with GM’s industrialization and sourcing strategies. The Engineer serves as a key interface between suppliers, Industrialization teams, Purchasing Program Management (PPM), Product Program Cost Optimization (PPCO) and direct purchasing, driving cross-functional alignment and execution. This position requires independent judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence change across the organization.
What You’ll Do
- Lead complex assessments of supplier automation maturity using GM-defined frameworks and advanced analytics.
- Develop and implement automation maturity strategies that align with GM’s long-term operational goals.
- Evaluate and optimize supplier material handling and material flow systems to support cost and efficiency targets.
- Facilitate high-impact workshops and improvement plans with suppliers to address automation gaps.
- Act as a strategic liaison between suppliers, industrialization & internal GM teams to support sourcing and negotiation strategies through data-driven insights on supplier automation capabilities.
- Mentor junior specialists and guide cross-functional teams in automation maturity best practices.
- Present strategic recommendations to senior leadership and drive adoption across global teams.
- Own the development and continuous improvement of GM’s automation maturity model and supplier evaluation processes.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in engineering, manufacturing, automation, supply chain, purchasing, procurement, logistics, business or related field.
- 5+ years relevant work experience (any internship or co-op experience will not be considered)
- Strong understanding of material handling and material flow optimization in complex manufacturing environments.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence senior stakeholders.
- Advanced analytical skills proficiency in tools such as Power BI, Excel, and data modeling.
- Excellent communication, consulting, and strategic problem-solving skills.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally to supplier locations (up to 50%).
What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, automation systems, industrial engineering, supplier development, value chain engineering, supply chain, or purchasing.
- Experience with automation maturity models, Industry 4.0, or digital manufacturing assessments.
- Exposure to lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Working knowledge of automation technologies including robotics, PLCs, MES, and smart manufacturing systems, with exposure to WMS and ERP environments.
- Project management experience in cross-functional or supplier-facing roles.
- Experience in purchasing or purchasing program management, including supplier negotiations and sourcing strategies.
- Experience in mentoring and developing talent within technical teams.
- Familiarity with global manufacturing practices and automation trends.
