Lead Automation Technician Commissioning Specialist

Company DescriptionWorking 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 DescriptionJob PurposeThe Lead Automation Technician – Commissioning supports the goals of the Automation division by leading onsite commissioning and startup activities for industrial and mission‑critical automation systems. This role plays a key part in delivering high‑quality, reliable control systems by ensuring automation, instrumentation, and industrial networks are installed, tested, and validated to project specifications.You’ll be responsible for leading field commissioning efforts that directly impact system performance, project schedules, and customer confidence. Success in this role means delivering systems that are ready for operation, mentoring technicians in the field, and upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you thrive in fast‑paced environments and take pride in technical leadership and ownership, this role is built for you.What You’ll DoYou’ll be part of a team that gets things done and takes pride in the results. Your responsibilities may include:Lead onsite commissioning activities for automation and control systems, ensuring work aligns with project schedules and specificationsPerform I/O checkout, loop verification, and point‑to‑point wiring verification for sensors, actuators, and instrumentationSupport and guide PLC configuration, startup, and troubleshooting efforts (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)Configure, install, and validate automation devices including VFDs, motor starters, remote I/O, IO‑Link devices, and control panelsConfigure and troubleshoot industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP), including IP addressing and communication verificationInstall and support managed/unmanaged Ethernet switches, fiber optics, and structured cablingLead troubleshooting efforts to identify and resolve complex control system and network issuesCoordinate daily commissioning activities and provide technical direction to technicians onsiteServe as the primary technical point of contact during commissioning activitiesDocument commissioning results, deficiencies, system configurations, and network/IP schemesCommunicate progress, risks, and system readiness to project teams and customersEnsure all work complies with safety requirements, project standards, and KE quality expectationsQualificationsWhat You BringYou’re someone who shows up ready to lead, solve problems, and support the team. Successful candidates typically bring:5–10+ years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation, controls, electrical systems, or commissioning environmentsStrong working knowledge of PLC‑based control systems, field instrumentation, and electrical fundamentalsProven experience with:I/O checkout and system commissioningPLC configuration, startup, and troubleshootingIndustrial networking and IP addressingAbility to read and interpret electrical schematics, loop drawings, and network diagramsExperience with Ethernet switches, gateways, distributed I/O, and networked field devicesStrong troubleshooting skills and ability to drive issues to resolutionPrior experience mentoring technicians or acting as a technical lead in the fieldPreferred QualificationsExperience leading commissioning activities onsiteExperience with IO‑Link systems (devices, masters, and gateways)Experience in data centers or other mission‑critical facilitiesKnowledge of fiber optics, VLANs, and industrial network designOSHA 10, OSHA 30, or equivalent safety certificationsAdditional InformationPay RangeWe believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.$49/hr- $53/hrTotal Rewards StatementAs 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 employeesHSA contributions to support your medical expensesCompany-paid life insurance and disability coverage401(k) with competitive company matchProfit sharing and performance-based incentivesPaid weekly with competitive wagesPTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursementExclusive employee discounts through Working AdvantageWe believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.Physical RequirementsThe 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:Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, and stoop for extended periodsAbility to lift and carry up to 50 lbsAbility to work in close proximity to team members in a production environmentAccessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources at [email protected].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:EEO is the Law (English/Spanish) 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. Travel Requirement: Yes - 50% Division: Automation Compensation: USD 49 - USD 53 - hourly