Automation Project Manager

Job Purpose

The 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—while upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance.

• Lead the full lifecycle of automation projects from kickoff through execution, testing, and final handover.
• Serve as the technical‑facing project leader for customer engineers, plant personnel, and decision‑makers.
• Translate customer requirements and control narratives into actionable scopes and detailed project plans.
• Coordinate engineering resources, procurement, and subcontractors to meet project goals.
• Conduct internal and customer‑facing project reviews to track progress, manage risk, and resolve issues.
• Support design reviews, panel builds, software development timelines, and commissioning activities.
• Maintain strong customer relationships and act as a trusted advisor throughout the project.
• Collaborate with sales and engineering during pre‑project planning and post‑project lessons learned.
• Lead status meetings, track milestones, manage budgets and financials, and process change orders.
• Ensure all projects meet quality standards, safety protocols, and customer expectations.
• Support onsite commissioning activities as needed, including travel to customer facilities.

• 5–7+ years of experience managing automation projects involving PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong understanding of industrial control system architecture, panel design, and field instrumentation.
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as ISA, NFPA, and UL508A.
• PMP certification is a plus.
• Ability to travel up to 30%.

$128,400K - $144,450K, plus incentive opportunities, or additional compensation.

• 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.
• Profit sharing and performance‑based incentives.
• Paid weekly with competitive wages.
• PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement.
• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage.

• Ability to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds.
• Sufficient vision and hearing to review detailed drawings, communicate effectively, and observe safety hazards.
• Regular use of computer, phone, and standard office equipment.
• Ability to travel to job sites and customer locations as required.

If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources at

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.