Director/Sr. Director, Factory Automation Engineering

Niron Magnetics is scaling the world’s first advanced manufacturing process for the mass production of permanent magnets powered by its breakthrough material formulation. The company’s proprietary magnet technology based on Iron Nitride enables magnets that are inherently high magnetization, free of rare earths and other critical materials, and will drive innovation in various industries. Niron Magnetics is comprised of a team of professionals with a desire to make a positive impact on the global community. We were named one of “America's Top GreenTech Companies” for 2024 and 2025 by TIME Magazine and the “Innovation of the Year” at the 2025 mHUB Fourth Revolution Awards.

Our team is made up of people who think big, dare to innovate, and strive to impact the planet through technological innovation for our customers. Ready to learn alongside amazing people, solve complex problems, and leave a legacy? Join us.

What you’ll do

As Director, Factory Automation & Controls, you will own the end-to-end automation strategy and execution for Niron’s magnet manufacturing—spanning robotics, controls, motion, vision, MES/SCADA, and OT infrastructure. You will build and lead a world-class, multidisciplinary automation engineering organization, standardize our automation architecture across both the Minneapolis Pilot and Sartell, MN High Volume facilities, and deliver automated, robust, and scalable production systems that enable Niron’s growth.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Strategy & Standards

• Define automation vision and roadmap aligned to scale-up goals.


• Establish ISA/IEC standards, safety, and OT cybersecurity frameworks.

Systems Integration

• Integrate automation assets with MES, SCADA, PLCs, and enterprise data systems.


• Ensure interoperability and cybersecurity (TLS, OPC UA, zero-trust).

Lifecycle Management

• Own FAT/SAT, commissioning, CQV, and change control.

Team Leadership

• Build and lead a multidisciplinary, world class automation engineering team.

Program Delivery

• Lead greenfield and brownfield automation projects from concept through ramp.

Vendor & CapEx Management

• Manage automation OEM partnerships and multi-million-dollar investments.

Continuous Improvement

• Apply Lean/Six Sigma and CI methodologies to optimize throughput and reliability.

What We’re looking for

• 15+ years in factory automation; 5+ years leading engineering teams.


• Expertise in robotics, PLC/HMI, motion control, vision systems, MES/SCADA.


• Strong program management, financial acumen, and executive communication.


• Preferred: MES/SCADA deployment, OT cybersecurity, greenfield scale-up.


• Start-up or scaling a business experience


• Maintain a “Safety First” mindset, adhering to all company safety policies and procedures.


• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and maintain a clean, organized work environment.


• Commit to delivering high-quality solutions with a strong customer focus.

Our pay and benefits

We believe great work deserves great support. Here’s how we invest in you:

• Competitive Salary: $180,000–$230,000 annually, based on your experience and impact.


• Ownership Opportunity: Equity in Niron through a meaningful stock option grant—your success is our success.


• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family well.


• Mental Health Support: Because your well-being matters just as much as your work.


• 401(k) with Company Match: Helping you plan for the future while building something big today.


• Ample Time Off: Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays to recharge and reconnect.


• A Place to Thrive: Join a high-performing, purpose-driven manufacturing environment where innovation and collaboration fuel every day.