Special Projects Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

The Special Projects Engineer plays a critical role in delivering high impact automation solutions by supporting customer projects through advanced software development, system design, product implementation, and integration of third-party equipment into TwinCAT based systems. Serving as a dedicated engineering resource, this role is responsible for implementing Beckhoff technologies within customer environments while collaborating closely with internal teams and client engineering staff. The Special Projects Engineer not only drives successful technical outcomes but also strengthens customer capability through mentorship, troubleshooting expertise, and guidance across complex automation challenges.

Key Responsibilities 

Technical Solution Delivery

• Provide application support for customer projects, including software development, system design, product implementation, and integration of third-party equipment into a TwinCAT system.
• Perform software development across the Beckhoff Automation product line at the client’s direction to bring projects to completion.
• Diagnose and resolve customer implementation issues using advanced troubleshooting tools and techniques.

Customer Enablement & Engineering Guidance

• Mentor and train client engineering staff throughout system development and implementation. 
• Provide clients the ability to develop and implement systems they may not have the resources or expertise to complete independently.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Partner directly with Product Management on implementation of key technologies.
• Support Professional Development teams with feedback on developing engineers’ strengths and career trajectories.

Operational Execution

• Embrace complex challenges and expand skillsets as new technical questions arise. 
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Disclaimer:   This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The company reserves the right to modify duties or assign additional responsibilities as necessary to meet business needs. Other duties as assigned.

What Makes This Role Unique 

• Best in Class Tech: Represent a highly differentiated automation platform.
• High Impact Engineering:  Work directly with OEMs and clients implementing Beckhoff systems for the first time.
• Deep Technical Challenge:  Design, deploy, and troubleshoot cutting edge control, motion, and IoT solutions.
• Values Driven Culture:  Join a strong, collaborative organization built around engineering excellence.

What We’re Looking For – Required Skills & Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Computer Science, Business, or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and 4–6 years of relevant experience.
• Deep experience with industrial systems design and application-level engineering solutions. 
• Hands on experience with industrial control technologies including PLC, embedded systems, and PC based automation.
• Strong ability to manage and prioritize multiple issues while effectively engaging cross functional resources. 
• Demonstrated capability to lead team efforts on large‑scale projects and collaborate to resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Proven ability to excel in customer facing technical environments and communicate effectively with technology end users.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, composure, and sound judgment in high pressure or fast paced environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including comfort presenting to clients and internal teams.

Work Location 

This is a remote work position. Team members can work from any location within the United States, with occasional virtual meetings and collaboration. Annual team and company meetings will be held in-person to facilitate learning, professional development, and team building.

Travel 

This position requires varying travel up to 50%, which may include day trips, overnight stays, and occasional extended travel depending on business needs. Travel may be local, regional, or national. All travel-related expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy. Candidates must be able to meet the travel requirements of the role, and reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

What We Offer 

Benefits 

At Beckhoff Automation USA, our privately held, family-owned culture empowers candid collaboration, the freedom to create innovative solutions, and strong relationships built around cutting-edge technology and shared purposes.

• Generous Paid Time Off + 12 Paid Holidays
• Employer paid High-Deductible Medical Plan, Dental, and Vision for Employee + Family!
• 401(k) with up to 6% employer match
• Employer-Paid Insurance: Life, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Elective Benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Indemnity, and Pet Insurance
• Professional Development Opportunities

Physical Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods.
• Including the ability to drive in a car between 2 to 5 hours, one-way, multiple times a month.
• Ability to use a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move as needed to perform job duties.
• Manual dexterity for operating tools and equipment.
• Adequate vision and hearing to perform essential tasks safely.

About Beckhoff

At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders –– to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT, and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation.

As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and support for the people behind the automation. So, whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites, or developing fusion energy solutions – you can reach new heights for your business, industry, and humankind.

Beckhoff is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, participate in an interview, or otherwise take part in the recruitment process, please contact our Talent & Culture Team.