Salary :
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Controls & Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Compensation: Starts at $70,000 annually (higher based on experience)
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Compensation: Starts at $70,000 annually (higher based on experience)
Role Overview
We are seeking a skilled Controls & Automation Engineer to support and improve automation systems, electrical infrastructure, and production performance within a manufacturing environment. This position combines hands-on troubleshooting with engineering design and continuous improvement initiatives.
You’ll work closely with operations and maintenance teams to identify system issues, implement enhancements, and support ongoing automation projects across the facility.
Key Responsibilities
- Configure, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based control systems within production operations
- Design and improve HMI interfaces to enhance usability and operator efficiency
- Diagnose issues involving automation systems, instrumentation, and communication networks
- Lead and support projects focused on improving equipment uptime, throughput, and reliability
- Analyze equipment data to identify trends and recommend process improvements
- Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
- Assist with planning system upgrades, shutdowns, and equipment modifications
- Enhance alarm systems, reporting tools, and overall control system functionality
- Translate operational needs into effective automation and control solutions
Technical Environment
PLC Platforms:
- Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal)
- Allen-Bradley
- GE / RX3i
- Toshiba NV
HMI / SCADA Systems:
- Ignition
- Cimplicity
- WinCC
- Rockwell platforms
Networking & Systems:
- Profibus / Profinet
- Industrial communication protocols
- Data acquisition systems (IBA or PDA experience preferred)
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial or manufacturing environments
- Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting
- Knowledge of motors, drives, and AC/DC control systems
- Experience with ladder logic programming
- Ability to manage automation projects from concept through implementation
- Comfortable working in both office and production floor environments
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective communication skills across technical and operational teams
Additional Responsibilities
- Support automation systems used in heavy industrial or rolling processes
- Maintain system backups and ensure control system integrity
- Improve instrumentation performance and system responsiveness
- Identify and implement upgrades to existing equipment and controls
- Contribute to long-term automation strategies and continuous improvement efforts
Work Environment & Growth
- Combination of hands-on fieldwork and engineering responsibilities
- Collaborative team environment focused on safety and performance
- Opportunities for training, skill development, and career advancement
Why This Role
This is a strong opportunity for an automation professional who enjoys solving complex technical challenges while contributing to system reliability and production efficiency in a dynamic manufacturing setting.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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