Automation & Controls Engineer

Job Title: Automation & Controls Engineer
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract to Hire
Compensation: $70,000 – $105,000 annually

Note: This position is expected to convert to a permanent role upon completion of initial contract terms.

Overview

We’re seeking a hands-on Automation & Controls Engineer to support a fast-paced manufacturing operation. This role focuses on improving and maintaining automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and instrumentation, while partnering closely with production and maintenance teams to enhance performance, reliability, and safety.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives in an industrial environment.

What You’ll Do:
• Support and modify PLC programs to improve operational efficiency

• Troubleshoot automation, communication, and HMI-related issues

• Maintain backups and ensure system reliability

• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams on process improvements

• Lead initiatives to enhance automation stability and reduce downtime

• Analyze system performance data and recommend improvements

• Assist with equipment upgrades, installations, and modifications

• Participate in failure analysis and corrective action planning

• Improve alarm systems and operator interface functionality

• Support outage planning and scheduled maintenance activities

Technical Responsibilities:
PLC & Controls Systems:

Experience with one or more of the following:

• Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal)

• Allen-Bradley

• GE / Emerson controllers (RX3i, Innovation Series, Genius I/O)

• Toshiba NV

HMI / SCADA Systems:

• Ignition

• Cimplicity

• WinCC

• Rockwell Automation platforms

Additional Expertise:

• Industrial networks (Profibus, Profinet preferred)

• Motors, drives, and AC/DC control systems

• Data acquisition tools (IBA/PDA preferred)

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

• Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing automation

• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting skills

• Ability to manage projects from concept through implementation

• Experience working in both office and plant floor environments

• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities

• Detail-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset

Work Environment & Culture:
• Team-oriented and safety-focused workplace

• Opportunities to contribute to process innovation and efficiency

• Support for ongoing learning and career development

• Exposure to large-scale industrial systems and operations

Compensation & Benefits (Upon Conversion):
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage (day-one eligibility)

• 401(k) with company match

• Life and disability insurance

• Paid parental leave

• Employee assistance programs

• Tuition reimbursement

• Performance-based bonus opportunities