Junior Networking Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (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. 

Job Purpose 

This role supports KE's Automation division by assisting with the installation, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of industrial communication networks that support manufacturing facilities, industrial automation systems, and data center environments. You'll be responsible for supporting network infrastructure projects, configuring network equipment, and helping ensure reliable communication between critical industrial systems. 

Success in this role means contributing to safe, efficient, and reliable network deployments while developing technical expertise through hands-on field experience, training, and mentorship from senior engineers. All work is performed while upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who enjoys solving technical challenges, learning new technologies, and working in a fast-paced project 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: 

• Assist with installing, terminating, labeling, testing, and troubleshooting copper and fiber optic network infrastructure. 
• Support network installation and commissioning activities at customer sites throughout the United States. 
• Assist with patching and maintaining network connections in control panels, network cabinets, and data center environments. 
• Configure and commission managed network switches under the guidance of senior engineers. 
• Troubleshoot basic network connectivity, communication, and hardware issues. 
• Verify network performance and connectivity during startup and commissioning activities. 
• Maintain accurate network documentation, cable schedules, IP address assignments, and network drawings. 
• Read and interpret network diagrams, schematics, and project documentation. 
• Follow established installation standards, safety procedures, and customer requirements. 
• Collaborate with senior engineers, project teams, and customers to support successful project execution. 
• Travel extensively to support project installations, maintenance activities, and service calls. 

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: 

• 0-3 years of experience in networking, information technology, industrial automation, telecommunications, or a related technical field. 
• Associate degree, technical degree, trade school training, military experience, or equivalent hands-on networking experience preferred. 
• Basic experience installing, terminating, labeling, testing, and troubleshooting Cat5e/Cat6 network cabling. 
• Basic experience working with fiber optic cabling, patch panels, and network hardware. 
• Understanding of Ethernet networking concepts including MAC addresses, VLANs, IP addressing, subnetting, and network segmentation. 
• Familiarity with managed network switches and basic network troubleshooting techniques. 
• Ability to read and interpret network diagrams and technical documentation. 
• Familiarity with network testing equipment and software diagnostic tools. 
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and willingness to learn. 
• Ability to work effectively in both team and independent environments. 
• Valid driver's license and ability to obtain customer site access as required. 
• Ability and willingness to travel 50-75%, including overnight travel. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Exposure to industrial automation, manufacturing, or data center environments. 
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, or OPC UA. 
• Basic understanding of routing, firewalls, cybersecurity, and network security concepts. 
• Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, or industrial control systems. 
• Industry certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or similar networking credentials. 

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.

$25.00- $40.00 per hour

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:

• 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.