Control Panel Tech Jobs in Northfield, MN (NOW HIRING)

Working at Knobelsdorff 

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions. 

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core value. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work. 

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you. 

This role supports KE's Automation division by designing and developing industrial automation hardware solutions that power complex control systems and industrial processes. You'll be responsible for creating hardware designs, schematics, and documentation that directly impact project execution, product quality, and customer satisfaction. Success in this role means delivering reliable, compliant, and efficient hardware designs while collaborating with engineering, production, and field teams to ensure successful project outcomes, all while upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in doing things the right way and thrives in a fast-moving environment, this position is built for you.

What You'll Do

You'll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include:

• Design and develop industrial automation hardware schematics that meet customer requirements.
• Create hardware layouts, wiring drawings, and bills of materials.
• Collaborate with software, controls, manufacturing, and panel shop teams to ensure successful project execution and production handoff.
• Develop and execute hardware documentation and quality verification processes prior to production release.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware-related issues during development, manufacturing, and startup phases.
• Ensure hardware designs comply with applicable industry standards and regulatory requirements, including UL508A standards.
• Support the implementation of industrial networking and communication systems.
• Research and incorporate emerging automation technologies and engineering best practices.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on hardware design processes, engineering tools, and methodologies.
• Support occasional startup and commissioning activities at customer sites.

What You Bring

You're someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring:

• 2+ years of experience designing industrial control panels, automation hardware, and associated networking systems.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of industrial control systems, motor controls, and field instrumentation.
• Experience designing hardware using electrical CAD software; EPLAN experience preferred.
• Knowledge of UL508A panel design requirements and industry electrical standards.
• Working knowledge of Ethernet/IP industrial communication protocols.
• Familiarity with Modbus TCP, Modbus Serial, Profibus, Profinet, ControlNet, and DeviceNet is preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screening.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%, primarily for regional startup and commissioning support.

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.

Pay Range: $100,000- $120,000 per year

Total Rewards Statement

As a full-time employee at KE, 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
• 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 KE 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:

• EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

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.