Automation PLC Engineer

About the Role

This role supports the Automation division by leading and executing control system design, programming, and commissioning on automation projects. You will deliver reliable, scalable, and well-documented industrial control solutions that directly impact customer success while upholding KE’s commitment to safety, people, passion, and performance. Success means meeting project requirements with technical excellence and clear communication in a fast-moving environment. • Lead automation projects from concept through commissioning, ensuring schedule and budget compliance. • Design control panels, network architecture, and specify field devices for industrial control systems. • Interpret P&ID, process flows, and specifications to develop control system designs and programs. • Produce I/O lists, specifications, test procedures, FDS manuals, and other project documentation. • Develop modular PLC, HMI, and SCADA programs using Rockwell RSLogix 5000 and FactoryTalk View SE. • Configure Ethernet/IP switches, protocol converters, VFDs, and other control devices. • Perform on-site start-up, commissioning, and provide technical assistance to field technicians. • Facilitate client meetings to define scope, functional, and operational requirements of control systems. • Troubleshoot, test, and revise existing programs to resolve errors and improve performance. • Manage multiple projects independently and collaboratively, staying current with industry best practices. • Communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and internal teams, delivering clear documentation and presentations. • Apply critical thinking to devise sound technical solutions to complex automation challenges. • Perform physical tasks including lifting up to 20 lb, climbing ladders and stairs, and working in noisy or dirty environments.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸plc programming
• ▸control design
• ▸network configuration
• ▸commissioning
• ▸client meetings
• ▸documentation

What You Bring

The position requires occasional travel up to 30 % of the time, typically local or regional for start-ups lasting two weeks or less, and may involve extended working hours. Physical demands include the ability to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, lift up to 20 lb, climb ladders and stairs, and work in noisy or dirty environments. Knobelsdorff is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to providing accommodations throughout the hiring process. • Maintain proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite for reporting and project tracking. • Bring 5+ years of PLC/HMI/SCADA programming experience, preferably with Rockwell and Ignition platforms. • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience. • Demonstrate knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, Profinet, ControlNet, and DeviceNet. • Possess experience with scripting languages and databases to support automation tasks. • Exhibit strong time-management, organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. • Travel up to 30 % of the time for local or regional start-ups, often lasting two weeks or less.

Requirements

• ▸plc/hmi/scada
• ▸rockwell
• ▸ignition
• ▸bachelor's
• ▸industrial protocols
• ▸scripting

Benefits

Knobelsdorff offers a competitive compensation package with a base salary range of $105,000 to $120,000 per year, plus per diem and discretionary incentive opportunities. Full-time employees receive comprehensive benefits, including 100 % employer-paid health and dental coverage, HSA contributions, company-paid life and disability insurance, a 401(k) with match, profit sharing, weekly paid wages, PTO, paid holidays, education reimbursement, and exclusive employee discounts.

Work Environment

Hybrid