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# Chief Technology Officer with an Industrial Automation Firm – Pittsburgh, PA


Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer with an Industrial Automation Firm – Pittsburgh, PA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering force in the industrial automation sector, located in the vibrant technology hub of Pittsburgh, PA. Our client is a market leader, renowned for developing cutting-edge solutions that redefine manufacturing efficiency, safety, and productivity. They are at the forefront of the Industry 4.0 revolution, integrating robotics, AI, machine learning, and IoT to create the smart factories of the future. We are seeking a transformative and visionary Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to join their executive leadership team and steer the company’s technological direction during a period of unprecedented growth and innovation.
As the CTO, you will be the principal architect of the company’s technology strategy, responsible for the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and research to execution and market launch. This is a strategic role that requires a unique blend of deep technical expertise, exceptional leadership acumen, and a forward-thinking mindset. You will be instrumental in identifying and capitalizing on emerging technological trends, ensuring our client maintains its competitive edge and continues to deliver groundbreaking solutions to a global clientele. You will lead a world-class team of engineers, data scientists, and product developers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. This position offers a rare opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of industrial automation, working with a dynamic team dedicated to solving complex challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned technology leader with a proven track record of success within the industrial automation, robotics, or advanced manufacturing industries. You possess a profound understanding of both hardware and software systems, including control systems, IoT platforms, and data analytics. Your strategic vision will not only guide product development but also influence the company’s overall business strategy, partnerships, and market positioning. If you are a passionate innovator, a strategic thinker, and an inspirational leader ready to shape the future of an industry, we invite you to apply for this career-defining role.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer with an Industrial Automation Firm – Pittsburgh, PA
Technology Vision and Strategic Roadmap
Develop and articulate a clear, compelling long-term technology vision and strategy that aligns with the company’s business goals. Create and maintain a comprehensive technology roadmap, outlining key initiatives, timelines, and resource allocation.
Research, Development, and Innovation
Lead the R&D department to explore, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies such as AI/ML, computer vision, digital twins, and advanced robotics. Champion a culture of continuous innovation and experimentation to drive the development of next-generation products and solutions.
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing, multi-disciplinary technology organization. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and results-oriented environment that attracts and retains top talent. Provide technical guidance and professional development opportunities for your team.
Product Lifecycle Management
Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from concept and design through to development, testing, deployment, and post-launch support. Implement agile methodologies and best practices to ensure timely and high-quality product delivery.
Technical Architecture and Infrastructure
Define and govern the company’s technical architecture, ensuring all systems are scalable, secure, and reliable. Make critical decisions regarding technology stacks, platforms, and infrastructure to support current and future growth.
Intellectual Property Strategy
Develop and manage the company’s intellectual property portfolio, including patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Work closely with legal counsel to protect the company’s innovations and maintain a competitive advantage.
Cybersecurity and Compliance
Establish and enforce robust cybersecurity protocols for both corporate IT and operational technology (OT) environments. Ensure all products and systems adhere to the latest industry standards in industrial automation, including ISA/IEC 62443, and comply with relevant regulatory requirements.
Executive Collaboration and Stakeholder Management
Serve as a key member of the executive team, providing technical insights to inform strategic business decisions. Effectively communicate the technology strategy and progress to the CEO, board of directors, investors, and other key stakeholders.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual technology budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources. Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and return on investment (ROI) for all technology initiatives.
Customer and Partner Engagement
Act as a senior technical evangelist for the company. Engage with key customers, technology partners, and industry forums to understand market needs, build strategic relationships, and promote the company’s technological leadership.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer with an Industrial Automation Firm – Pittsburgh, PA
Educational Background
Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field is required.
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in technology roles, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership position (e.g., VP of Engineering, Director of R&D, CTO) within a relevant industry.
Industry Expertise
Deep domain knowledge in industrial automation, robotics, manufacturing technology, or a closely related field is essential. Proven experience in bringing complex hardware and software products to market in this sector.
Technical Acumen
Extensive hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge across a broad range of technologies, including:

Control Systems (PLC, SCADA, HMI, DCS)
Industrial IoT (IIoT) platforms, sensors, and connectivity protocols (e.g., MQTT, OPC-UA)
Robotics, machine vision, and motion control
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization
Cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and edge computing architectures
Software development methodologies (Agile, Scrum) and DevOps practices
Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity principles and frameworks

Strategic Vision
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute a technology strategy that drives business growth and creates a sustainable competitive advantage. Experience with technology M&A and integration is a plus.
Leadership and Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills. The ability to inspire and motivate large technical teams is crucial. Must be an articulate and persuasive communicator, capable of presenting complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Business Acumen
Strong understanding of business principles, including finance, marketing, and operations. Experience managing significant budgets and a proven ability to align technology investments with business outcomes.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity incentive package.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, with low employee contributions. Access to wellness programs, mental health support, and a generous health savings account (HSA) with company contributions.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A substantial annual budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, executive coaching, and continuing education.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package for qualified candidates and their families to help with the move to Pittsburgh.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Work in a modern, collaborative office and lab environment equipped with the latest technology and tools.
Additional Perks
Company-sponsored social events, catered lunches, and other perks designed to foster a positive and engaging work culture.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal Chief Technology Officer role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic vision for technology in the industrial automation space. We are looking for leaders who are not just technically proficient but who can inspire teams and drive transformative change. If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and lead a company at the pinnacle of industrial innovation, we encourage you to apply.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for technology and manufacturing sectors. Learn more about our expertise in the Industrial Technology recruiting practice area. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company and our clients. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.