Controls & Automation Project Manager

Steele Solutions, Inc. is the nation's leading designer and manufacturer of steel work platforms and mezzanines. We recently launched our automation division to solve one of the biggest challenges in material handling-controls that are too often rebuilt from scratch, full of delays, and unpredictable at startup. With this launch, we’re looking for a Controls & Automation Project Manager professional to join our automation team in Atlanta, GA (preferred) or Milwaukee, WI! *Role does require travel up to 25-30%

Summary

The Project Manager is responsible for leading the successful execution of small to mid-size controls and automation projects from kickoff through closeout. This role manages project scope, budget, and schedule while coordinating cross-functional engineering, installation, and commissioning resources. The Project Manager ensures effective customer communication, timely deliverables, and accurate reporting, while contributing to the continuous improvement of project delivery practices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.

System Architecture & Standardization

- Apply established project delivery standards, templates, and tools.

- Maintain project schedules, budgets, and documentation in accordance with company SOPs.

- Track and enforce compliance with contractual requirements and safety standards.

Technical Leadership & Execution

- Develop and manage detailed project plans, including resource assignments and milestones.

- Lead project meetings, document decisions, and maintain action item trackers.

- Provide accurate project reporting on status, risks, and financials.

- Support field teams during commissioning and installation phases as needed.

Client Relations & Communication

- Serve as the primary customer contact for assigned projects.

- Build strong client relationships by maintaining regular communication and responsiveness.

- Manage expectations on scope, budget, and schedule while proactively addressing concerns.

- Represent the company in a professional manner during site visits, meetings, and progress reviews.

Team Development & Mentorship

- Provide day-to-day direction to assigned project coordinators, vendors, contractors, engineers, and subcontractors.

- Participate in peer reviews and lessons learned sessions.

- Model professional communication and customer service for junior team members.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

- Coordinate with engineering, estimating, and field services teams to align deliverables.

- Serve as primary customer contact for project-related communication.

- Support Sales in project definition, scope validation, and estimate reviews.

Strategic Growth & Innovation

- Identify and escalate process improvement opportunities to management.

- Contribute to development of standard templates and project management best practices.

- Seek ways to improve project efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or related field.

- 4–7 years of project management experience in automation, industrial, or construction environments.

Other Key Skills

- Proficiency with MS Project, Excel, Planner, and project reporting tools.

- Understanding of controls and electrical project lifecycles.

- Strong organizational and communication skills.

- Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.

- Travel up to 25–30% for site visits, customer meetings, and commissioning support.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Office-based with periodic exposure to plant and customer sites.

Locations: Atlanta, GA / Milwaukee, WI Travel: Occasional customer or site workshops (<25–30%)

Why You’ll Love Working Here?

- A collaborative culture.

- Opportunities to make a real impact as we grow.

- Competitive pay, great benefits, and a great team.

- Celebrations, volunteer days, and moments that make work more than just “work.”..

Are You Ready to Join the SSi Team?