Job Description
Automation Engineer 4 Lead – Oil & Gas Division | Sioux Falls, SD
Do you have a deep understanding of automation in the Oil & Gas sector—and the leadership skills to match? Direct Companies is looking for an experienced Automation Engineer 4 Lead to join our growing Oil & Gas division in Sioux Falls, SD. This role will drive project execution, mentor technical talent, and lead process improvements that help us deliver safer, smarter, and more efficient solutions for our clients in the energy sector.
About Direct Companies – Oil & Gas Division
At Direct Companies, our Oil & Gas team partners with some of the most respected energy companies in the region. From upstream production to midstream operations, we deliver custom-built automation and control solutions that optimize performance and ensure regulatory compliance. Based in Sioux Falls, our team is hands-on, forward-thinking, and driven to set a new standard for operational excellence in the field.
What We're Looking for:
5+ years of automation or controls engineering experience in Oil & Gas
Proven leadership in managing technical teams and field operations
Strong understanding of PLC/SCADA systems, telemetry, and field instrumentation
Experience coordinating cross-functional teams across service and project work
Familiarity with regulatory standards in Oil & Gas operations
Effective communicator with a proactive, solutions-first mindset
Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field preferred
What You’ll Be Doing:
Team Resource Coordination (42%)
Oversee engineering and service resources across multiple oilfield automation projects
Ensure proper scheduling and coverage for field work, commissioning, and service support
Collaborate with division leadership to align team efforts with client expectations and business goals
Mentorship & Coaching (28%)
Provide day-to-day guidance, support, and technical mentorship to automation engineers and field techs
Create a culture of continuous learning, safety awareness, and high-performance execution
Deliver timely, constructive feedback to support growth and skill development
Process Leadership & Optimization (18%)
Lead internal initiatives to improve workflows and reduce project/service inefficiencies
Document and implement process changes with a focus on adoption and long-term improvement
Partner with SMEs and other stakeholders to identify and resolve root issues
Project & Service Support (12%)
Respond to complex service requests and critical field issues with a calm, expert approach
Maintain accurate documentation through project and asset tracking platforms
Help ensure that every project delivers both technical success and client satisfaction
Key Metrics for Success:
On-time project completion and team resource utilization
Team development, retention, and technical growth
Process improvement execution and adoption
Field service response time and customer satisfaction
What You’ll Get:
Competitive compensation based on experience
Full benefits package (health, dental, vision, life, disability)
401(k) with company match
PTO, paid holidays, and travel expense support
Ongoing training and leadership development
Opportunity to lead in one of the fastest-growing divisions in the company
Relocation Bonus (If applicable)
Why Direct Companies?
This is more than a leadership role—it’s your chance to shape the future of automation in one of the most essential industries in the world. Our Oil & Gas division is growing, and we’re looking for leaders who bring both hands-on experience and the strategic mindset to push us forward. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and make an impact where it matters—we want to hear from you.
Apply today and help us fuel the next chapter of innovation in Oil & Gas.