Digital Innovation & AI Specialist

About Us:

Alliance Machine Systems International, LLC is a privately held company with over 35 years of history dedicated to providing corrugated box manufacturing machines and services to the changing industry. As the paperboard packaging industry's premier global supplier of productivity-enhancing process machinery and systems, we supply innovative designs, intelligent automation, and optimized workflow, coupled with highly responsive parts and service support. Our United States and Europe based engineering, manufacturing, sales and service operations provide a global support system covering the full product portfolio of Alliance, Serco, TEI, ASC, Pallmac, J&L and Tanabe machines.

 

Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.

 

Job Description:

THIS IS AN ON-SITE ROLE LOCATED IN SPOKANE, WASHINGTON.

SUMMARY

We are seeking a forward-thinking AI & Digital Innovation Specialist to join our engineering team and drive digital transformation within our manufacturing operations and equipment. This role focuses on identifying, piloting, and implementing cutting-edge digital tools—including AI, machine learning, and process automation—to increase engineering efficiency, reduce waste, improve product development cycles, enhance data-driven decision-making and provide innovative digital solutions for our customers.

As part of our digital transformation journey, the AI & Digital Innovation Specialist will work closely with engineers, data scientists, and the Digital Innovation Team to identify high-impact opportunities for AI and turn them into scalable, real-world applications that enhance productivity, precision, and innovation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Includes the following, other duties may be assigned.)

• Digital Tool Integration: Evaluate, implement, and support emerging digital tools (e.g., generative AI, digital twins, industrial IoT, AR/VR, robotic process automation) to enhance engineering workflows.
• AI Application: Collaborate with engineering and the Digital Innovation Team to deploy AI/ML tools such as:
  • Predictive maintenance models using sensor data
  • Generative design and simulation tools (e.g., Autodesk Fusion 360, Siemens NX, nTopology)
  • Computer vision for quality inspection
  • Large Language Models (LLMs) for document automation and technical support
• Innovation Pipeline: Create a digital innovation roadmap aligned with business goals. Run pilot projects, track outcomes, and scale successful solutions.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Act as a liaison between engineering, DI Team, production, and R&D to ensure cohesive adoption of digital solutions.
• Data Strategy: Help develop data governance practices, ensuring data collected from machinery, sensors, and ERP systems is clean, usable, and integrated for advanced analytics.
• Regulatory Compliance: In collaboration with the Data Governance team, ensure that solutions adhere to emerging regulatory requirements as well as complete any required reporting on our data practices.
• Training & Change Management: Develop training materials and lead change management efforts to ensure team adoption and understanding of new digital tools.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay ahead of industry trends, benchmark competitors, and propose continuous improvements using digital methodologies such as lean digital manufacturing or Industry 4.0/5.0 principles.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

The AI & Digital Innovation Specialist position has no direct reports and is not directly responsible for managing others, but may be asked to lead small, temporary teams that may include Engineers, Engineering Aides or Technicians.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Technology, or related field
• Master’s degree a plus
• Certifications in AI, machine learning, or cloud AI platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
• Certifications in digital transformation (e.g., MIT Digital Transformation, Industry 4.0)

• Must be able to perform each essential duty with a high degree of satisfaction.
• Work effectively in cross-functional teams, collaborating with individuals from diverse fields such as engineering, product, and more to achieve common goals.
• The experience and skill requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job.
• Qualified candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• 1-3 years of experience in digital transformation, industrial engineering, or manufacturing innovation roles.
• Proven experience with digital tools such as:
  • Generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot, Jasper, Claude)
  • Predictive analytics tools (e.g., Azure ML, TensorFlow)
  • CAD/CAM with AI-enabled design tools (e.g., SolidWorks with xDesign)
  • Digital twin or simulation software (e.g., Ansys, Siemens)
  • Data visualization platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau)
• Understanding of manufacturing systems such as MES, SCADA, ERP, and PLM.
• Familiarity with programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) is preferred.
• Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

To successfully perform the essential functions of this job, an individual must be willing and able to

• Travel as needed.
• Sit at a desk or computer for extended periods of time.
• Move about the office and factory with occasional lifting, bending and reaching.
• Dial, hear and respond to telephone calls and inquiries.
• Communicate effectively (visually and verbally) with internal and external contacts.
• Meet requirements of daily attendance on job for a full, continuous work schedule.

ADVANCEMENT

The successful candidate for advancement has:

• Good knowledge of company equipment, controls systems and software tools.
• Good application of company’s engineering processes and lean product development practices.
• Ability to work in teams and follow direction.
• Ability to flex tasks on a moment’s notice.

Compensation: $85,000-95,000 salary (DOE)

Benefits: Alliance offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K with employer match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.

 

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process. ​

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

 

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.

 

Company:

Alliance