Automation PLC Engineer

Knobelsdorff Electric Inc.; Sweetwater, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental coverage

HSA contributions

Life insurance

Disability coverage

401(k) with match

Paid weekly

PTO & holidays

Education reimbursement

Employee discounts

Job summary

Knobelsdorff Electric Inc. in Texas is seeking a seasoned automation professional to lead control system design, programming, and commissioning on industrial projects.

You will deliver reliable, scalable, and well-documented control solutions and ensure safety, quality, and timely delivery. The role requires leading projects from conception to startup, creating I/O lists, PLC/HMI/SCADA programs, and collaborating with clients, vendors, and field technicians.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ programming experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA applications.
• Degree in electrical engineering or computer science or equivalent experience.
• Deep knowledge of industrial control systems, motor control, and instrumentation.
• Proficiency with RSLogix 5000, FactoryTalk View SE and Rockwell tools.
• Step 7 and TIA Portal experience is beneficial.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA screens such as Ignition, FactoryTalk View, Wonderware.
• Knowledge of Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/Serial, Profinet, and related protocols.
• Scripting and database knowledge; strong communication and time management.
• Openness to travel up to 30% (local/regional startups may require more).

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects from conception to completion within timelines and budgets.
• Design control panels, networks, and field devices specs.
• Interpret P&ID, process flows, and specs for system design.
• Create I/O lists, test procedures, and manuals.
• Develop PLC/HMI/SCADA programs using modular techniques.
• Configure devices such as switches, protocol converters, and VFDs.
• Provide on-site startup and commissioning support.
• Assist field technicians with modifications and troubleshooting.
• Participate in client meetings to define scope and requirements.
• Provide technical guidance to field staff on PLC/HMI/SCADA programs.
• Troubleshoot and revise programs to meet operational requirements.
• Work independently and in teams on multiple projects.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Industrial control systems

Ethernet/IP proficiency

Modbus/Profinet knowledge

Troubleshooting

Client communication

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Tools

RSLogix 5000

FactoryTalk View SE

Rockwell software portfolio

Step 7

TIA Portal

Ignition / Wonderware

Job description

• Compensation: USD 105,000 - USD 120,000 - yearly

Company Description

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 Description

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.

Qualifications

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.

Additional Information

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
• 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.
• Must be able to travel up to 100% or be on-site

Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact KE Human Resources [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO 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.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we’ll work with you.