Business Development Manager – Controls & Automation

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

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

• Create, qualify, and advance opportunities.

• 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 underpenetrated.

• Engage with customers prior to the RFP stage to influence project scope.

• Establish SSI as a preferred partner in the industry.

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

• Convert customer challenges into actionable opportunities across SSI's service lines.

• Lead initial solution development with engineering to define scope, approach, and positioning.

• Manage the pipeline using CRM tools, which includes forecasting, tracking activities, and reporting.

• Represent SSI at industry events, during site visits, and through strategic customer engagement.

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

• Travel approximately 50% throughout the Western U.S.

⛳️ Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in business development or technical sales within industrial automation, electrical systems, or system integration, or 5+ years of hands-on technical experience in controls and automation.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, industrial technology, electronics technology, or a related technical field.

• Other degrees may be considered if accompanied by relevant experience.

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

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

• Working knowledge of PLCs and automation systems, including system architecture, I/O layout, and the development of control philosophies.

• Experience with PLC migration and modernization from legacy platforms like PLC-5, SLC 500, and Siemens S5/S7.

• Familiarity with PLC integration alongside HMIs, SCADA, and plant networks.

• Basic understanding of programming concepts such as ladder logic, function block, and structured text.

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

• Knowledge of SCADA and HMI software, including Ignition, Wonderware/AVEVA, and FactoryTalk.

• Understanding of industrial networking and protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, DNP3, and ControlNet.

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

• Understanding of electrical systems, including LV and MV drives, relays, VFD/soft start systems, and protective schemes.

• Familiarity with electrical engineering principles, including load lists, cable routing, arc flash, and area classification.

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

• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational skills and a commitment to follow-through.

• Willingness to travel regionally, approximately 50% of the time.

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

• Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without the need for employer-sponsored visa/work permit.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

• Comprehensive benefits package.

• Opportunities for career development.

• Leading-edge electrical and safety training.

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

• Collaboration with experienced engineers and field technicians.

• Diverse, impactful projects that enhance safety, reliability, and performance for major industrial clients.