Automation PLC Engineer

About the role

Working at Knobelsdorff (KE) 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 KE 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, KE is the place for you.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• 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

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