Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer

Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer

Location: Petersburg, VA

Job Type: Contract-to-Hire

Starting Salary: $70,000+ (Compensation may be higher based on experience.)

Position Overview

We are seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer to support and improve manufacturing operations through automation, electrical systems, and process optimization. This hands-on role combines office-based engineering with field support, giving you the opportunity to troubleshoot equipment, develop control solutions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across a high-volume industrial facility.

Working closely with production, maintenance, and leadership teams, you will help maintain reliable operations while implementing automation enhancements that improve safety, efficiency, and equipment performance.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Control Systems

Program, modify, and maintain PLC systems that support manufacturing operations.

Develop and update ladder logic for Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516 platforms.

Maintain software backups and support automation reliability initiatives.

Lead projects focused on improving automation performance and operational stability.

Translate operator requests into practical automation solutions.

PLC Experience

Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:

GE Innovation Series Controllers

Toshiba NV Controllers

RX3i Controllers

GE Genius Block I/O Networks

Siemens S7 / TIA

Allen Bradley PLCs

HMI & Software Development

Modify and support HMI applications using one or more of the following:

GE Cimplicity

Ignition

WIN CC

Rockwell Automation platforms

Process Improvement & Reliability

Troubleshoot automation, communication, HMI, and instrumentation issues.

Identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions.

Improve alarm functionality and reporting for operators and maintenance teams.

Collect, analyze, and report equipment performance data.

Recommend and support equipment upgrades, renovations, installations, and system improvements.

Participate in failure analysis and continuous improvement initiatives.

Support planning and execution of scheduled maintenance outages and shutdowns.

Assist with annual operational planning activities.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering.

Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience programming PLCs.

Strong knowledge of AC/DC control systems, motors, and drives.

Experience overseeing electrical projects, including design, implementation, maintenance, and operational safety.

Experience programming Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516 PLCs and developing ladder logic.

Understanding of PLC communication protocols, with Profibus and Profinet preferred.

Ability to troubleshoot automation, communication, and HMI-related equipment issues.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data acquisition software (IBA/PDA preferred).

Comfortable working both in an office environment and on the manufacturing floor.

Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

Detail-oriented with the ability to perform complex system testing.

Excellent communication skills with operators, maintenance personnel, and leadership teams.

Preferred Background

Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:

BSEE (Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering)

Automation Engineering

Controls Engineering

Process Engineering

PLC Programming

HMI/SCADA Systems

Control Systems

Hydraulics and Pneumatics

AC/DC Drives and Motors

Industrial Manufacturing, Metals, or Steel Production

What You'll Bring

A hands-on approach to automation and process improvement.

The ability to collaborate across multiple departments.

Strong technical expertise in industrial controls and electrical systems.

A continuous improvement mindset focused on reliability, productivity, and operational excellence.

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.