Industrial Automation Estimator & Project Manager

Job Summary

The Industrial Automation Estimator & Project Manager is responsible for developing accurate, competitive estimates and proposals for industrial automation and controls projects, then managing those projects from award through commissioning and closeout. This hybrid role ensures technical feasibility, cost accuracy, on-time/on-budget delivery, and strong client relationships for projects involving PLC/HMI/SCADA systems, control panels, instrumentation, industrial networking, robotics integration, and related automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Proposal Development

Review RFQs, customer specifications, P&IDs, control narratives, electrical schematics, and related documentation to define complete scope, identify gaps, assumptions, exclusions, and risks.
Develop detailed cost estimates covering engineering, PLC/HMI/SCADA programming, control panel design and fabrication, hardware, instrumentation, industrial networking, installation, testing (FAT/SAT), commissioning, project management, travel, software licenses, and contingencies.
Obtain and evaluate vendor/subcontractor quotations for materials, equipment, and services.
Prepare clear technical and commercial proposals, including scope statements, deliverables, schedules, pricing breakdowns, and clarifications.
Collaborate with sales, engineering, and operations teams to refine estimates, support bid decisions, and protect project margins.
Participate in estimate reviews and continuous improvement of estimating standards and historical cost databases.

Project Management

Lead project kickoff, planning, and execution for industrial automation projects from contract award through commissioning and closeout.
Develop and maintain project schedules, resource plans, budgets, and risk registers; track progress against baseline and forecast costs/revenue.
Coordinate cross-functional teams including controls engineers, programmers, panel fabricators, field technicians, and subcontractors.
Manage scope changes, prepare and negotiate change orders, and maintain accurate project documentation.
Serve as the primary client contact; ensure clear communication on status, issues, and decisions.
Oversee procurement, panel fabrication, factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), installation, commissioning, and startup activities.
Monitor financial performance, support invoicing and cash-flow reporting, and ensure projects meet profitability targets.
Enforce quality, safety (including OSHA and relevant industrial standards), and compliance requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
Conduct project closeout, including as-built documentation, O&M manuals, training support, lessons learned, and warranty transition.

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls/Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field (or equivalent practical experience).
Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation, system integration, or controls (estimating, project management, or a combination).
Strong working knowledge of industrial automation systems, including PLCs (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, SCADA platforms, VFDs/drives, instrumentation, and industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, etc.).
Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical schematics, control narratives, I/O lists, and technical specifications.
Proven experience developing detailed cost estimates and/or managing project scope, schedule, and budget.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (advanced Excel required), Microsoft Project or equivalent scheduling tools, and estimating software or custom spreadsheets.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational ability, and the capacity to manage multiple concurrent estimates and projects.
Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel as required (typically 10–25%).

Preferred

PMP certification or Certified Estimating Professional (CEP).
Hands-on experience with control panel design, AutoCAD/electrical drafting, or PLC programming concepts.
Industry-specific experience (e.g., manufacturing, food & beverage, process industries, water/wastewater, automotive, or oil & gas).
Familiarity with safety systems (SIL, machine safety), UL/NEC standards, and commissioning practices.
Experience with ERP systems and project financial tracking.

Working Environment

Primarily office-based with occasional site visits. May involve exposure to industrial environments during project support or commissioning. Some evening or weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines.

Pay: $50,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Flexible schedule
Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Black Birch Engineering, Inc

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