Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation)

Qualdoc

Petersburg, VA contract

Posted: April 2, 2026

Job Description

Job Title: Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation)
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract to Hire

Are you looking for a hands-on role where you can contribute to automation, controls, and process improvements in a fast-paced manufacturing environment? This opportunity offers the chance to work across both software and hardware systems, supporting operational efficiency and continuous improvement initiatives.

What You’ll Experience:
• A large-scale manufacturing environment supporting multiple industrial sectors

• A workplace that values collaboration, safety, and innovation

• Ongoing investment in employee growth, training, and career development

• A strong focus on continuous improvement, operational excellence, and sustainability

Benefits & Perks:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage (eligible on day one)

• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)

• 401(k) with company match up to 6%

• Life and Accidental Life Insurance

• Short-term and Long-term Disability

• Annual bonus opportunities

• Employee Assistance Program and Health Advocacy services

• Paid parental leave

• Tuition reimbursement

• Structured career development and training programs

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field

• Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience with PLC programming

• Strong understanding of AC/DC systems, motors, and drives

• Experience managing electrical systems, including design, implementation, and maintenance

• Hands-on experience with PLC platforms such as Rockwell and Siemens (S7-1516 preferred)

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Profibus, Profinet preferred)

• Experience troubleshooting automation, HMI, and communication-related issues

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data acquisition tools (IBA/PDA preferred)

• Ability to work in both office and production floor environments

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

• Ability to communicate effectively with operations, maintenance, and leadership teams

Key Responsibilities:
• Support and enhance automation systems within manufacturing operations

• Modify and maintain PLC programs across various platforms, including:

• GE controllers (Innovation Series, RX3i)

• Toshiba NV

• Siemens (S7/TIA)

• Allen-Bradley systems

• Develop and update HMI applications using tools such as:

• GE Cimplicity

• Ignition

• WinCC

• Rockwell Automation platforms

• Lead initiatives to improve automation stability, system performance, and operator interfaces

• Identify and implement process improvements to increase throughput and reliability

• Troubleshoot equipment and system issues, ensuring timely resolution

• Analyze asset performance data and recommend improvements

• Support maintenance planning, shutdowns, and outage execution

• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement efforts

• Assist with annual planning and long-term system enhancements

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