Manager Digital Manufacturing Systems

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The Manager, Digital Manufacturing Systems leads the vision, strategy, and execution of Generac's digital factory ecosystem. This role drives the adoption of manufacturing technologies including MES, connected worker solutions, industrial data platforms, and advanced analytics to improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.

This leader will partner across Operations, Engineering, and IT to build scalable digital solutions that enable real-time visibility, operational excellence, and the future of smart manufacturing.

Major Responsibilities:

Digital Factory Strategy & Roadmap

• Own and advance the Digital Factory roadmap across manufacturing operations.

• Define scalable architectures for MES, connected worker technologies, data platforms, and analytics.

• Align digital initiatives with Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and enterprise transformation goals.

• Drive standardized, repeatable solutions while supporting site-specific business needs.

Manufacturing Execution & Digital Shop-Floor Enablement

• Lead digital solutions that improve: 

• Work order execution and production flow

• Electronic work instructions and standard work

• Routing, sequencing, and changeover efficiency

• Production, labor, and equipment visibility

• Downtime, exceptions, and issue escalation management

• Partner with Operations and Industrial Engineering to digitize processes and improve shop-floor execution.

Connected Worker & Human-Centered Design

• Implement technologies that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.

• Ensure digital tools are intuitive, effective, and adopted by frontline teams.

• Support digital capability development for operators and supervisors.

Quality, Traceability & Closed-Loop Improvement

• Drive digital quality management including defect tracking, corrective actions, and issue resolution.

• Enable product and process traceability across manufacturing operations.

• Create closed-loop systems that connect quality insights to continuous improvement.

Data, Analytics & Performance Visibility

• Build the foundation for real-time manufacturing visibility and decision-making.

• Enable performance metrics including OEE, throughput, cycle time, downtime, scrap, and labor efficiency.

• Automate data collection and reporting to improve accuracy and speed.

• Provide leaders with trusted data to support operational excellence.

System Integration & Digital Architecture

• Lead integration of manufacturing systems with ERP, PLM, QMS, SCADA, PLC, and enterprise data platforms.

• Ensure solutions are secure, scalable, and reliable across sites.

• Establish data standards that support analytics, AI, and automation initiatives.

Automation & Industry 4.0 Enablement

• Help prepare manufacturing operations for advanced automation and smart factory capabilities.

• Collaborate with Engineering and IT/OT teams on robotics, connected equipment, and advanced controls.

• Build the digital foundation required for future Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Governance, Change Management & Adoption

• Establish standards, governance, and best practices for digital manufacturing systems.

• Drive adoption through training, communication, and partnership with plant leadership.

• Serve as a key escalation point for critical digital manufacturing issues.

Team, Program & Vendor Leadership

• Lead and develop a team of digital manufacturing professionals.

• Manage external technology partners, vendors, and system integrators.

• Own program budgets, timelines, and project delivery.

• Prioritize initiatives based on business impact, strategic value, and operational needs.

Minimum Job Requirements:

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Information Systems, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Work Experience

• 5+ years supporting manufacturing systems within a discrete manufacturing environment.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to travel to manufacturing sites (approximately 20-50%).

• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, production execution, and Lean principles.

• Experience leading cross-functional digital transformation or manufacturing systems initiatives.

• Proven ability to convert operational challenges into scalable technology solutions.

Preferred Job Requirements:

Work Experience

• Experience managing large-scale programs, portfolios, or digital transformation initiatives.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Experience with digital manufacturing platforms such as Tulip and Ignition.

• Knowledge of ISA-95 standards and manufacturing systems architecture.

• Experience supporting high-mix, configurable, or engineered-to-order manufacturing.

• Prior leadership experience managing technical or manufacturing-focused teams.

• Exposure to Industry 4.0, IIoT, automation, and smart manufacturing technologies.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls.  The employee is regularly required to stand and walk.  On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders.  The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel. 
 

“We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”