Automation Project Manager

Automation Project ManagerThis role supports the Automation division by leading the full lifecycle of industrial automation projects, ensuring technical accuracy, strong customer communication, and successful project delivery. You'll be responsible for managing PLC, HMI, SCADA, and network-based automation projects that directly impact customer operations, project performance, and KE's reputation as a trusted automation partner. Success in this role means delivering projects on time and within budget, maintaining strong customer relationships, and driving clear communication across engineering, field teams, and stakeholders—all while upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you take pride in doing things the right way and thrive in a fast-moving environment, this position is built for you.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 the full lifecycle of automation projects from kickoff through execution, testing, and final handoverServe as the technical-facing project leader for customer engineers, plant personnel, and decision-makersTranslate customer requirements and control narratives into actionable scopes and detailed project plansCoordinate engineering resources, procurement, and subcontractors to meet project goalsConduct internal and customer-facing project reviews to track progress, manage risk, and resolve issuesSupport design reviews, panel builds, software development timelines, and commissioning activitiesMaintain strong customer relationships and act as a trusted advisor throughout the projectCollaborate with sales and engineering during pre-project planning and post-project lessons learnedLead status meetings, track milestones, manage budgets and financials, and process change ordersEnsure all projects meet quality standards, safety protocols, and customer expectationsSupport onsite commissioning activities as needed, including travel to customer facilitiesYou'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:5–7+ years of experience managing automation projects involving PLC, HMI, and SCADA systemsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or related field (or equivalent experience)Strong understanding of industrial control system architecture, panel design, and field instrumentationAbility to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholdersStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneouslyFamiliarity with industry standards such as ISA, NFPA, and UL508APMP certification is a plusAbility to travel up to 20%$128,400 - $144,450, plus incentive opportunities, or additional compensation.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 employeesHSA contributions to support your medical expensesCompany-paid life insurance and disability coverage401(k) with competitive company matchPerformance-based incentivesPaid weekly with competitive wagesPTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursementExclusive employee discounts through Working AdvantageThe physical demands described here represent those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.Ability to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, and walk for extended periodsAbility to lift and carry up to 20 poundsSufficient vision and hearing to review detailed drawings, communicate effectively, and observe safety hazardsRegular use of computer, phone, and standard office equipmentAbility to travel to job sites and customer locations as requiredKnobelsdorff (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.