Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical/Instrumentation)

Qualdoc

Petersburg, VA contract

Posted: April 16, 2026

Quick Summary

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support automation, electrical systems, and process improvements within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will work closely with operations, maintenance, and leadership teams to troubleshoot issues, implement upgrades, and analyze data to improve equipment performance, reliability, and production efficiency.

Job Description

Job Title: Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical/Instrumentation)
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Salary: $70,000 – $105,000

Overview

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support automation, electrical systems, and process improvements within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role offers a mix of hands-on fieldwork and technical engineering responsibilities, focused on improving equipment performance, reliability, and production efficiency.

You’ll work closely with operations, maintenance, and leadership teams to troubleshoot issues, implement upgrades, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.

What You’ll Do:
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC systems to support manufacturing operations

• Develop and update HMI applications to improve usability and operational efficiency

• Diagnose and resolve issues related to automation, communication networks, and control systems

• Lead and support initiatives to improve system reliability, automation stability, and throughput

• Analyze equipment performance data and recommend improvements

• Participate in failure analysis and implement corrective actions

• Assist with planning and execution of maintenance outages and system upgrades

• Enhance alarm systems, reporting tools, and operator interfaces

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate operational needs into automation solutions

Technical Environment:
PLC Platforms may include:

• Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal)

• Allen-Bradley

• GE and RX3i controllers

• Toshiba NV

HMI/SCADA Tools may include:

• Ignition

• Cimplicity

• WinCC

• Rockwell Automation

Networking & Systems:

• Profibus / Profinet

• Industrial communication protocols

• Data acquisition tools (IBA/PDA preferred)

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

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with PLC programming

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

• Experience with ladder logic development and PLC troubleshooting

• Ability to manage and support electrical and automation projects from design through implementation

• Comfortable working both in an office setting and on the production floor

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail

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

Key Responsibilities in This Role:
• Support automation systems for rolling mill or heavy industrial processes

• Maintain system backups and ensure software integrity

• Lead improvements in instrumentation, response time, and system feedback

• Identify and implement solutions for equipment upgrades and modifications

• Contribute to annual planning and continuous improvement initiatives

Work Environment & Benefits:
• Mix of hands-on fieldwork and office-based engineering tasks

• Collaborative, team-oriented culture focused on safety and continuous improvement

• Opportunities for training, development, and career growth

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