Automation Engineer – Process Solutions
About the RoleThorp Controls Automation Solutions is seeking an Automation Solutions Engineer to join its Automation Sales Engineering Team in Denver, Colorado. This role will lead growth of Schneider Electric process automation solutions across the company's locations while supporting customers, account managers, and Schneider Electric personnel.The ideal candidate combines technical knowledge of industrial automation with strong customer-facing and sales skills. You will identify automation opportunities, understand customer challenges, develop technical solutions, conduct presentations and product demonstrations, and provide technical support through commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop expertise in Schneider Electric's process automation portfolio, including:Control ExpertModicon PLCsEcoStruxure Automation ExpertIEC 61499Related control and networking productsIdentify and pursue process automation sales opportunities with Thorp Controls account managers and Schneider Electric personnel.Lead independent and joint sales calls with customers.Understand customer pain points and help define technical problems before recommending solutions.Assess customer requirements, often with limited initial information.Develop and propose technical automation solutions aligned with customer business goals.Create and deliver presentations and live product demonstrations to engineers, decision-makers, and plant personnel.Guide customers through solution development and benefits analysis.Provide pre-sales and post-sales technical support.Assist with commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization.Complete and leverage manufacturer-provided technical training.Develop and lead technical training classes for customers and Thorp Controls sales and technical teams.Support marketing initiatives designed to increase awareness and demand for automation products and solutions.Track and manage sales opportunities in the Thorp Controls CRM.Maintain clear communication and effective handoffs across teams.Collaborate with Schneider Electric End User Automation Sales and Technical teams.Build strong distributor-manufacturer relationships.Support automation sales growth across Thorp Controls locations.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience in industrial automation.Demonstrated ability to work independently in a technical sales, business development, or applications engineering role.Confidence and ability to present and sell technical solutions to customers.Strong analytical skills.Ability to learn and apply new software and technologies in industrial automation environments.Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.Positive, team-oriented approach.Self-motivated and organized.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a matrixed team environment.Ability to travel 20–40%, including overnight travel, in support of all company locations.Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.Preferred QualificationsExperience selling or supporting technical products in industrial markets.Experience working with OEMs, system integrators, or plant engineering customers.Background in industrial automation or control systems.Experience with PLC programming, SCADA design, or industrial networking.Experience with Schneider Electric Control Expert and Modicon PLCs.Experience with EcoStruxure Automation Expert or other IEC 61499 environments.Strong interest in winning new business and developing sales opportunities.Interest and ability to develop and lead technical training programs.Leadership aptitude and interest in developing people and managing technical capabilities.Existing relationships with industrial customers in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, or Colorado.Skills & CompetenciesIndustrial automationProcess automationAutomation solutionsTechnical salesSales engineeringApplications engineeringBusiness developmentPLCsPLC programmingSCADAIndustrial networkingControl systemsSchneider Electric technologiesControl ExpertModiconEcoStruxure Automation ExpertIEC 61499Technical presentationsProduct demonstrationsCustomer relationship managementTechnical troubleshootingCommissioningSystem optimizationAnalytical thinkingCommunicationProblem-solvingTraining and technical educationSales opportunity managementCRM managementEducation & ExperienceEducationBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering required, or equivalent hands-on experience in industrial automation.ExperienceDemonstrated ability to work independently in technical sales, business development, or applications engineering required.Industrial automation, control systems, or technical product experience is preferred.Work Arrangement & ScheduleLocation: Denver, Colorado, United StatesWork Arrangement: OnsiteEmployment Type: Not specified in the source job description.Travel: 20–40%, including overnight travel, supporting Thorp Controls locations.Compensation & BenefitsBase Salary: $75,000–$125,000 per yearAdditional compensation:Eligible for monthly bonuses based on company sales of applicable products.Benefits include:Medical insuranceDental insuranceVision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time off, including sick leavePaid holidaysCompany vehicle reimbursement program (FAVR) for business travelAbout Thorp Controls Automation SolutionsFounded in 1923 by Roy Thorp, Thorp Controls, formerly Barr-Thorp Electric Company, is a third-generation, family-owned business providing automation products, engineering assistance, expert support, and industrial technology solutions.Thorp Controls serves a diverse customer base including OEMs, system integrators, and industrial users, with locations across Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Colorado. The company focuses on helping customers improve production flow, operational performance, and sustainability through the right technology and supplier partnerships.Compliance / Additional InformationThe role requires a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record. Travel may include overnight travel in support of Thorp Controls locations.