Automation Project Manager
About The Position
This 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.
Requirements
- 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
- Ability to travel up to 30%
Nice To Haves
- PMP certification is a plus
Responsibilities
- 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
Benefits
- 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
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
