Lead Solutions Specialist - Industrial Controls and Automation

Automation Application Engineer-OEM

Date:
May 13, 2026

Location:

Houston TX

Position: Automation Application Engineer-OEM

Crawford Electric Supply is an electrical distribution company in the southeast United States, part of the Sonepar group.

The Automation Application Engineer serves as the primary technical authority supporting industrial automation solutions for End Users and OEM customers. This role partners closely with Automation Sales Specialists and Account Managers by providing application expertise, solution design, and technical guidance throughout the pre‑sales and post‑sales lifecycle.

• Provide technical expertise to support automation sales opportunities by developing system architectures, validating applications, and partnering with Automation Sales Specialists to deliver technically sound solutions.
• Design and recommend industrial automation solutions—including PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networking—that meet customer performance, reliability, and scalability requirements.
• Engage with End Users and OEMs to assess applications, provide technical guidance, support troubleshooting and escalations, and ensure successful adoption of recommended solutions.
• Coordinate with manufacturers, system integrators, and internal teams to support implementation, commissioning, and alignment between customer requirements and delivered solutions.
• Deliver technical training, product demonstrations, and application workshops for customers and internal stakeholders to drive solution understanding and adoption.
• Stay current on automation technologies, industry trends, and competitive platforms, and provide technical insights to support solution positioning and continuous improvement.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience)
• Experience: 5–10 years of experience in industrial automation application engineering, controls engineering, or technical pre‑sales supporting End Users, OEMs, and/or system integrators.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Hands‑on knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motion control, industrial safety, and industrial communication protocols (Ether Net/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.). Familiarity with major automation platforms such as Schneider Electric, Rockwell Automation, and Siemens.
• Professional
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. Effective time and priority management across multiple opportunities and projects.

• Paid time off
• Paid parental leave
• 401(k) retirement savings with company match
• Professional and personal development programs
• Opportunity to become a shareholder
• Employer‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability
• Employer‑paid life insurance for spouse and dependents
• Robust wellness program
• Gym reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Sonepar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, or an unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other categories protected by federal, state or local law.

Sonepar and our family of brands are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, we will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please call  or email

Applicants and employees are protected under Federal law from discrimination. To learn more, .

Sonepar follows Executive Order 11246, including the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. To learn more, .