Automation Lead – Material Handling & AGV Systems

About the role

The Automation Lead role is critical to maintaining system uptime, supporting continuous improvement, and partnering with cross‑functional teams to enhance automation capabilities, ensure safety compliance, and drive operational excellence within the Cash & Custody Function of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day operations of Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) systems, troubleshooting issues and guiding rapid resolutions.
• Serve as the primary leader for a team of automation technicians, providing hands‑on coaching, skill development, and shift coverage coordination.
• Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation problems, ensuring timely resolution.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, and IT to implement system upgrades, software patches, and automation improvements.
• Develop and maintain documentation for SOPs, maintenance schedules, incident response plans, and performance reporting.
• Monitor system KPIs, analyze trends, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements for equipment and personnel.
• Support business continuity and contingency planning for automated systems.

Required profile

• Natural leader who communicates clearly, exercises sound judgment, and invests in team success.
• Proven ability to manage day‑to‑day operations, including scheduling, prioritization, coaching, and process execution.
• Background in mechanical, electrical, automation engineering, or a related technical field.
• Hands‑on experience with automation systems and industrial equipment maintenance.
• Working knowledge of AGVs, robotics, PLCs, sensors, and other material handling technologies.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision to manage projects and processes.
• Availability for on‑call support, shift flexibility, or rotating schedules as needed.

Required skills

• AGVs
• Robotics
• PLCs
• Sensors
• Material handling equipment
• Automation systems

What we offer

• Educational assistance and career development tools.
• Parental leave, adoption assistance, backup dependent and elder care, and college planning resources.
• Comprehensive insurance plans, onsite Health & Wellness Center, and onsite Fitness Center.
• Pension plan, 401(k) with generous match, and financial planning resources.
• Subsidized public transportation program.