Automation PLC Engineer

Working at Knobelsdorff 

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions. 

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core value. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work. 

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you. 

Job Purpose 

This role supports the Automation division by leading and executing control system design, programming, and commissioning on automation projects. You’ll be responsible for delivering reliable, scalable, and well-documented industrial control solutions that directly impact customer success and project outcomes. Success in this role means meeting project requirements with technical excellence and clear communication, all while upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in doing things the right way and thrives in a fast-moving environment, this position is built for you. 

What You’ll Do 

You’ll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include: 

• Technically lead automation projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgetary constraints. 
• Provide detailed design of industrial control systems including control panel design, networking design, and field device specification. 
• Interpret P&ID, Process Flows, Specifications, and other system design documentation to use as the basis of control system design and programming. 
• Create I/O lists, specifications, test procedures, FDS manuals, and other project documentation as needed. 
• Create and document control system PLC/HMI/SCADA programs using modular and reusable programming techniques. 
• Configure and program control system devices such as managed Ethernet switches, protocol converters, VFDs, and other controllers. 
• Provide on-site control system start-up and commissioning. 
• Assist technicians with field modifications as needed. 
• Participate in client meetings to define scope and functional and operational requirements of the PLC/HMI/SCADA system. 
• Provide technical assistance to field technicians on PLC/HMI/SCADA programs. 
• Troubleshoot, test, and analyze existing project program errors and revise programs to operational order. 
• Work independently and as part of a team on multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Proven ability to develop professionally through direct mentorship and personally sourced academics. 
• Ability to stay aware of industry best practices and emerging technological developments. 
• Effectively communicate with clients, vendors, and internal teams. 
• Excellent critical thinking skills supporting sound technical solutions to complex problems. 
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. 

What You Bring 

You’re someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring: 

• 5+ years’ programming experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA applications. 
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, or Computer Science, or equivalent education/experience. 
• Detailed knowledge of industrial control systems, motor control, and field instrumentation. 
• Highly proficient at creating complete PLC programs using RSLogix 5000, FactoryTalk View SE, and the Rockwell portfolio suite. 
• Experience with Step 7 and TIA Portal is beneficial. 
• Experience with HMI/SCADA screens, preferably using Ignition, FactoryTalk View, or Wonderware. 
• Working knowledge of Ethernet/IP industrial communication protocol. 
• Experience with Modbus TCP, Modbus Serial, Profibus, Profinet, ControlNet, Ethernet and DeviceNet is also beneficial. 
• Knowledge of scripting languages and databases. 
• Time management skills and ability to meet deadlines. 
• Proven communication, organizational, interpersonal and problem-solving skills. 
• Work occasional start-ups which may include extended working hours. 
• Required travel up to 30% of the time. Most start-ups are local or regional travel and are typically 2 weeks or less in duration. 

Pay Range

We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.

Pay Range: $105,000 – $120,000 per year plus per diem and discretionary incentive opportunities

Total Rewards 

As a full-time employee at Knobelsdorff, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future. 

• 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employees 
• HSA contributions to support your medical expenses 
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage 
• 401(k) with competitive company match 
• Profit sharing and performance-based incentives 
• Paid weekly with competitive wages 
• PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement 
• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage 

We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing. 

Physical Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities. 

Typical requirements may include: 

• Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time. 
• Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 20 lbs. 
• Must be able to climb ladders on equipment mezzanines. 
• Must be able to climb stairs over 100 feet. 
• Must be able to periodically work in a noisy and dirty environment. 
• Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources at 651-923-4970or via email at [email protected]. 

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Knobelsdorff is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. 

We believe in hiring the best person for the job, period. If you’ve got the skills, work ethic, and mindset to Own It, you’ll find a place here. If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we’ll work with you.

Knobelsdorff is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

• Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
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