Lead Automation Technician Commissioning Specialist
Posted about 8 hours ago
Job Description
Job Purpose
The 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 Do
You’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 specifications
- Perform I/O checkout, loop verification, and point‑to‑point wiring verification for sensors, actuators, and instrumentation
- Support 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 panels
- Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP), including IP addressing and communication verification
- Install and support managed/unmanaged Ethernet switches, fiber optics, and structured cabling
- Lead troubleshooting efforts to identify and resolve complex control system and network issues
- Coordinate daily commissioning activities and provide technical direction to technicians onsite
- Serve as the primary technical point of contact during commissioning activities
- Document commissioning results, deficiencies, system configurations, and network/IP schemes
- Communicate progress, risks, and system readiness to project teams and customers
- Ensure all work complies with safety requirements, project standards, and KE quality expectations
Qualifications
What You Bring
You’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 environments
- Strong working knowledge of PLC‑based control systems, field instrumentation, and electrical fundamentals
- Proven experience with:
- I/O checkout and system commissioning
- PLC configuration, startup, and troubleshooting
- Industrial networking and IP addressing
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, loop drawings, and network diagrams
- Experience with Ethernet switches, gateways, distributed I/O, and networked field devices
- Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to drive issues to resolution
- Prior experience mentoring technicians or acting as a technical lead in the field
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience leading commissioning activities onsite
- Experience with IO‑Link systems (devices, masters, and gateways)
- Experience in data centers or other mission‑critical facilities
- Knowledge of fiber optics, VLANs, and industrial network design
- OSHA 10, OSHA 30, or equivalent safety certifications
Additional Information
Pay Range
We 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/hr
Total Rewards Statement
As 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 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
We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.
Physical Requirements
The 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 periods
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
- Ability to work in close proximity to team members in a production environment
Accessibility: 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:
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.
Other open roles at Knobelsdorff Enterprises(6)
At Knobelsdorff (KE), we power what’s next, safely, reliably and with purpose. KE is a leading electrical solutions provider delivering engineering, construction and field services that help clients stay compliant, reduce risk and improve performance. From complex industrial environments to critical infrastructure, we bring deep expertise and a proactive approach to every project. But what truly sets KE apart is our people. We’ve built a culture rooted in safety, ownership, and continuous improvement, where individuals are empowered to lead, innovate and make an impact. Our teams don’t just execute work, they solve problems, build lasting partnerships, and take pride in doing things the right way. Whether you’re a customer or a future team member, you can expect: • A safety-first mindset in everything we do • A commitment to quality, accountability and results • A team that values collaboration, growth, and doing meaningful work We’re growing, and we’re always looking for driven individuals who want to be part of something bigger. If you’re ready to build a career where your work matters and your voice is heard, KE is the place to do it. Let’s build what’s next, together.
Key team members
Megan Ramaker
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