Automation PLC Engineer

Knobelsdorff (KE)

Eagan, MN

Pay: $105,000-$120,000/yr

Shift: Full time

**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.

**Job Purpose**

This role supports KE's Automation Division by leading the design, programming, and commissioning of industrial automation and control systems. You'll be responsible for developing PLC, HMI, and SCADA solutions, supporting system integration, and providing technical leadership throughout project execution that directly impacts project success, system reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Success in this role means delivering high-quality automation solutions that meet project requirements, perform reliably in the field, and support customer operations while maintaining strong communication and technical excellence, 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:

• Lead automation projects from design through startup and commissioning.
• Design industrial control systems, including control panels, networking architecture, and field device integration.
• Interpret P&IDs, process flow diagrams, specifications, and customer requirements to develop control system solutions.
• Develop and document PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications using standardized and reusable programming practices.
• Configure automation hardware including PLCs, HMIs, managed switches, VFDs, protocol converters, and related control devices.
• Create project documentation including I/O lists, functional design specifications, test procedures, and commissioning documents.
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), startup, and commissioning activities.
• Troubleshoot control systems and implement programming modifications to optimize system performance.
• Provide technical support and mentorship to field technicians and project team members.
• Participate in customer meetings to define project scope, operational requirements, and automation strategies.
• Collaborate with customers, vendors, and internal teams to ensure successful project delivery.
• Stay current on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and automation platforms.

**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 of experience programming and commissioning PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• Strong knowledge of industrial control systems, motor controls, instrumentation, and industrial networking.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation platforms, including Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000 and FactoryTalk View.
• Experience with SCADA and visualization platforms such as Ignition, FactoryTalk View, or Wonderware.
• Working knowledge of industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP; experience with Modbus, Profinet, Profibus, DeviceNet, or similar protocols is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to travel up to 30% for startup, commissioning, and customer support activities.

**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 Statement**

As a full-time employee at KE, 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 compe