Technical Project Manager - Vision Systems

Technical Project Manager - Automation & Customer Engagement
Location: Springfield NJ or Greenville, SC / (Hybrid flexibility)
Travel Required: Extensive international travel (Mexico, Brazil, Poland, India, Thailand, China)

Overview

A growing automation business is seeking a Technical Project Manager to lead day-to-day project execution and customer engagement. This role is critical in transitioning customer interaction responsibilities from the founder and sales team to a dedicated technical leader. The ideal candidate will bring strong automation experience-particularly in vision systems-along with the ability to manage complex projects across international borders and with sophisticated customers in industries such as Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG).

This is a high-impact opportunity for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys solving complex challenges, and can lead initiatives without a defined playbook.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring clear communication and alignment on technical and delivery expectations.
• Lead and manage multi-site vision system implementation projects across international locations.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and coordination between internal teams, customers, and third-party integrators.
• Coordinate with third-party system integrators, including contract negotiation and performance oversight.
• Lead technical discussions and provide guidance on automation solutions, with a focus on vision systems.
• Conduct site visits (domestic and international) for initial assessments, integration planning, and post-deployment support.
• Navigate operational complexities such as currency transactions (e.g., pesos), local contracting, and on-the-ground project support.
• Collaborate with engineering and sales teams to ensure seamless handoffs and consistent customer experience.
• Establish processes and frameworks where none currently exist, ensuring smooth execution and delivery.
• Drive project momentum with urgency, ownership, and proactive problem-solving.
• Navigate cross-border project dynamics, including cultural, logistical, and regulatory considerations.

What We're Looking For

Required:

• Strong technical background in automation, with hands-on experience in system integration.
• Familiarity with vision systems and their application in industrial environments.
• Proven experience leading complex, ambiguous projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments and resolve issues proactively.
• Strong sense of urgency, initiative, and accountability.
• Experience working with large, sophisticated organizations (e.g., CPG companies).
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally as needed.

Preferred:

• Experience working with international teams and integrators.
• Background in managing automation projects across multiple sites or regions.
• Located within commuting distance of Newark, NJ (not mandatory, but preferred for occasional office presence).