Automation Solutions Engineer - Process Automation

Founded in 1923 by Roy Thorp, Thorp Controls, formerly Barr-Thorp Electric Company, is a third generation, family-owned business that has grown through consistently delivering outstanding service, quality products, and expert support. Our industry edge is supplying automation products that require engineering assistance for proper selection and installation. However, as a full-line distributor, we offer a full breadth of products, including items that are commonly considered commodities.

Our diverse customer base comprises OEMs, system integrators, and industrial users. Thorp Controls works hard to ensure our customers' operations run optimally and sustainably. We offer expertise in applying the best technology to improve production flow. Whether the customer is an OEM needing new ideas or a plant engineer trying to fix an ongoing problem. We have a century of excellence behind us, and Thorp Controls can help provide a solution.

Thorp Controls has six locations in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Colorado. We believe that outsourcing can be avoided by implementing the right technology with the right supplier partner.

About the role

• Thorp Controls Automation Solutions is searching for the right candidate to join our Automation Sales Engineering Team to lead growth of Schneider Electric process automation solution sales across all locations. This role is based in our Denver, CO location and supports customers and account managers company-wide. We are expanding an already strong team, so the selected candidate will have the opportunity to learn from experienced coworkers.

What you'll do

• Develop deep expertise in Schneider Electric's process automation portfolio, including Control Expert and Modicon PLCs, EcoStruxure Automation Expert (IEC 61499), and related control and networking products.
• Proactively identify and pursue process automation sales opportunities in collaboration with Thorp Controls account managers and Schneider Electric personnel.
• Lead both independent and joint sales calls to promote process automation solutions, understand customer pain points, and propose technical solutions that align with business goals.
• Quickly assess customer needs — often with limited information — and help customers define the problem before proposing the solution.
• Create and deliver compelling presentations and live product demonstrations for engineers, decision-makers, and plant personnel.
• Guide customers through solution development and benefits analysis to reduce risk and help get projects approved.
• Provide pre-sale and post-sale technical support, including commissioning assistance, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Complete, maintain and leverage manufacturer-supplied training, which will include online self-paced, virtual live and in-person training.
• Develop and lead technical training classes for customers and for Thorp Controls' sales and technical staff.
• Support marketing initiatives to build awareness and demand for Thorp Controls’ products and solutions.
• Track and manage sales opportunities in Thorp Controls' CRM, ensuring clear communication and proper handoffs across all teams.
• Work closely with Schneider Electric End User Automation Sales and Technical resources to develop and sell optimized solutions and foster strong distributor-manufacturer relationships.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical 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.
• Comfort and confidence presenting and selling in front of customers.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to quickly learn new software and technologies and apply them in industrial automation environments.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a positive, team-oriented approach.
• Self-motivated and organized, capable of managing multiple priorities in a matrixed team structure.
• Ability to travel 20–40%, including overnight, in support of all locations.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Preferred

• Experience selling or supporting technical products in industrial markets, particularly within OEM, system integrator, or plant engineering accounts.
• Background in industrial automation or control systems — such as PLC programming, SCADA design, or industrial networking.
• Experience with Schneider Electric's Control Expert platform and Modicon PLCs.
• Experience with Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Automation Expert platform or other IEC 61499 environments.
• A strong drive to compete and win business, not just support it.
• Interest and ability to develop and lead technical training classes.
• Leadership aptitude and interest in developing people and managing technical capabilities as a future growth opportunity.
• Existing relationships with industrial customers in the Midwest (KS, MO, NE, CO) is a plus.

Compensation and benefits

• Base salary range: $75,000 - $125,000 per year
• Additional compensation: Eligible for monthly bonuses based on company sales of applicable products.
• Benefits include:
• • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off, which includes sick leave
  • Paid holidays
  • Company vehicle reimbursement program (FAVR) for business travel