Head of Automation

Who We Are:
Headquartered in Austin, TX with operations in Kermit and Monahans, TX, Atlas Energy Solutions is the leading provider of high-quality frac sand and innovative logistics solutions to Exploration & Production operators and oil field service providers in the Permian Basin. We are proud of what we do – we have state of the art manufacturing facilities, premium offerings, outstanding customer service, and exceptional work culture and a commitment to giving back to the community.

We’re very excited about what we see in front of us, and we think you will be too – so come join our team and contribute   to our growth!

How You Will Make an Impact:
We are seeking a results driven servant leader to spearhead the development and implementation of comprehensive automation short and long term roadmap across our manufacturing facilities, driving operational efficiency, productivity, and quality improvements through the deployment of advanced automation technologies. The Head of Automation will lead a team of process and automation engineers and process techs, overseeing the design, integration, and maintenance of automated systems while collaborating closely with cross-functional departments to align automation initiatives with overall business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a short and long automation roadmap aligned with business objectives, identifying opportunities to leverage emerging technologies like robotics, machine learning, and predictive analytics to optimize production processes.
• Manage complex multi-site automation projects from conception to implementation and support, including feasibility studies, system design, vendor selection, budget planning, and project timelines.
• Lead and mentor a teams of automation engineers, process engineers, and process technicians providing technical guidance, career development opportunities, and performance management.
• Oversee the seamless integration of automation systems with existing plant infrastructure, ensuring data compatibility and smooth operational transitions.
• Actively monitor and analyze automation system performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions to maintain optimal efficiency and uptime.
• Manage automation project budgets, identifying cost-saving opportunities and ensuring projects are delivered within budget constraints.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with relevant safety regulations and industry standards, prioritizing employee safety throughout implementation and operation.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional departments including engineering, manufacturing, quality, and maintenance to ensure alignment and smooth project and operational execution.
• Stay abreast of emerging automation technologies, evaluating their potential impact on production processes and recommending new solutions as needed.
• Manage change both organization and technical. Fully document and vet changes at project and day to day tactical level.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, with a proven track record of successful project delivery in a manufacturing environment.
• Deep expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI, and other industrial automation technologies.
• Demonstrable experience in Ignition, Rockwell PLCs, Factory Talk, general network architecture, SQL, etc.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate a diverse engineering team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
• Proven experience in implementing continuous improvement and change management and lean manufacturing principles.

What You’ll Love About Us:

• Best People and Great Places to Work, Hire Vets ,Top Place to Work For – Austin American Statesman
• Your Well-Being is a 100% covered Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Invest in Your 401K with company match, immediate vesting