Business Development Manager – Controls & Automation

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Louisiana, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Take ownership of and drive the development of the pipeline throughout the Western U.S.

• Generate, qualify, and advance opportunities within a designated multi-state territory.

• Identify and engage with target customers, general contractors, and end users in key markets.

• Formulate and implement territory and account strategies in regions that are currently underdeveloped.

• Connect with customers prior to the RFP phase to influence project scope and establish SSI as the preferred partner.

• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders in engineering, operations, maintenance, and capital projects.

• Convert customer challenges into opportunities across SSI’s service offerings.

• Spearhead early-stage solution development with engineering to define scope, approach, and positioning.

• Oversee pipeline activity, forecasting, and reporting using CRM tools.

• Represent SSI at industry events, site visits, and strategic customer interactions.

• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and leadership to ensure alignment of pursuits with execution capabilities.

• Expect to travel approximately 50% of the time.

⛳️ Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in business development or technical sales within industrial automation, electrical systems, or system integration, or at least 5 years of direct technical/hands-on experience in controls and automation.

• A Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, industrial technology, electronics technology, or a similar technical field, or other degrees considered with relevant experience.

• Proven track record of building a pipeline from a zero or low baseline in new or underdeveloped areas.

• Established ability to identify opportunities early, influence specifications, and enhance hit rates.

• Practical knowledge of PLCs and automation systems.

• Familiarity with system architecture, I/O layout, and the development of control philosophies.

• Experience with PLC migration and modernization, including PLC-5, SLC 500, Siemens S5/S7.

• Integration experience of PLCs with HMIs, SCADA, and plant networks.

• Understanding of basic programming concepts such as ladder logic, function block, and structured text.

• Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, GE, Schneider Modicon, and Emerson Delta V.

• Basic knowledge of Ignition, Wonderware/AVEVA, FactoryTalk, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, DNP3, and ControlNet.

• Familiarity with instrumentation and controls, including loop diagrams, I/O systems, calibration, field terminations, sensors, and transmitters.

• Knowledge of electrical systems, including low voltage (LV) and medium voltage (MV) drives, relays, VFD/soft start systems, and protective schemes.

• Understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, including load lists, cable routing, arc flash, and area classification.

• Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship-building abilities.

• Strong self-motivation, organizational discipline, and follow-through skills.

• Must be willing to travel regionally (~50%).

• Must pass a pre-employment drug test and periodic, unannounced random drug tests.

• Must successfully complete a pre-employment criminal background check.

• Must hold a valid driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driving record.

• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without requiring employer-sponsored visa sponsorship.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary along with performance-based incentives.

• Comprehensive benefits package.

• Opportunities for career development.

• Industry-leading training in electrical safety and practices.

• A technically-focused, high-growth organization supported by Shermco Industries & Blackstone.

• Collaboration with seasoned engineers and field technicians.

• Involvement in diverse, high-impact projects that enhance safety, reliability, and performance for major industrial clients.