Controls & Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems

Qualdoc

Petersburg, VA contract

Posted: May 11, 2026

Job Description

Controls & Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems
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.

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