[Hiring] Business Development Manager @Shermco Industries

Role Description

We are seeking a high-impact Business Development Manager (BDM) to own and drive pipeline development for Shermco System Integration (SSI) across an assigned territory (multiple states) in the United States. This role is a true hunter position responsible for identifying, creating, and advancing new opportunities in key growth markets, while leveraging the local Territory Account Managers. The BDM will be accountable for building a sustainable, qualified pipeline and expanding SSI’s presence in regions where we have limited or emerging coverage.

The ideal candidate combines technical credibility in controls and electrical systems with a proven ability to open doors, influence early project development, and position solutions before projects reach public bid. This role requires a highly proactive, self-directed individual who thrives in ambiguity and is motivated by building something new.

Travel: ~50% (Western U.S.)

Responsibilities

• Own and drive pipeline development across the Western U.S., with clear accountability for opportunity creation, qualification, and progression.
• Identify and engage target customers, GCs, and end users in key markets including:
• Develop and execute territory and account strategies to establish SSI in underpenetrated regions.
• Proactively engage customers before RFP stage, influencing project scope and positioning SSI as a preferred partner.
• Build and maintain relationships with engineering, operations, maintenance, and capital project stakeholders.
• Translate customer challenges into actionable opportunities across SSI service lines:
• Lead early-stage solution development, coordinating with engineering to shape scope, approach, and positioning.
• Maintain disciplined pipeline management within CRM tools, including forecasting, activity tracking, and reporting.
• Represent SSI in the market through industry events, site visits, and strategic customer engagement.
• Partner internally with operations, engineering, and leadership to align pursuits with execution capability.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of business development or technical sales experience in industrial automation, electrical systems, or system integration or 5+ years of direct technical / hands-on experience in the controls & automation space.
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, industrial technology, electronics technology, or a related technical discipline.
• Other degrees considered with relevant experience.
• Demonstrated success in building pipeline from zero or low baseline in new or underdeveloped regions.
• Proven ability to identify opportunities early, influence specifications, and improve hit rate.
• Working knowledge of PLCs and automation systems, including:
• System architecture, I/O layout, and control philosophy development.
• PLC migration and modernization from legacy platforms (e.g., PLC-5, SLC 500, Siemens S5/S7).
• Integration of PLCs with HMIs, SCADA, and plant networks.
• Basic programming concepts (ladder logic, function block, structured text).
• Hands-on familiarity with major automation platforms: Allen-Bradley, Siemens, GE, Schneider Modicon, Emerson Delta V, etc.
• Basic knowledge of:
• SCADA & HMI software: Ignition, Wonderware/AVEVA, FactoryTalk, etc.
• Industrial networking & protocols: EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, DNP3, ControlNet.
• Instrumentation & Controls: loop diagrams, I/O systems, calibration, and field terminations, sensors, transmitters.
• Electrical systems: LV and MV drives, relays, VFD/soft start systems, and protective schemes.
• Electrical engineering fundamentals: load lists, cable routing, arc flash, and area classification.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational discipline and follow-through.
• Willingness to travel regionally (~50%).

Requirements

• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test and periodic, unannounced random drug tests.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, and currently have and be able to maintain a good driving record.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without need for employer-sponsored visa (work permit).

Benefits

• Shermco is an exceptionally stable and profitable company.
• Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities.
• Industry-leading electrical and safety training.
• Be part of a technically focused, high-growth organization backed by the resources of Shermco Industries & Blackstone.
• Collaborate with some of the most experienced engineers and field technicians in the industry.
• Work on diverse, high-impact projects that improve safety, reliability, and performance for major industrial clients.