Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer

Job Type: Full-Time, Direct HireLocation: Petersburg, VAStarting Salary: $70,000/year (Compensation may be higher based on experience.)Position OverviewWe are seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer to support automation, electrical control systems, and continual improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This position combines hands‑on troubleshooting with engineering design and programming to improve equipment reliability, production efficiency, and process performance.The ideal candidate enjoys working both in the office and on the production floor while collaborating with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to solve complex automation challenges.Primary ResponsibilitiesDevelop, modify, and support PLC programs used in manufacturing operationsProgram and maintain HMI applications to improve operator interface and equipment performanceTroubleshoot automation, communication, instrumentation, electrical, and HMI related issuesLead projects that improve automation reliability, equipment uptime, and manufacturing efficiencyPartner with production and maintenance teams to identify opportunities for process improvementsAnalyze equipment performance data and recommend corrective actions to improve reliabilitySupport equipment upgrades, installations, modifications, and modernization projectsImprove alarm management and operator interface functionalityParticipate in failure analysis and root-cause investigations involving automation systemsAssist with maintenance planning, outage scheduling, and annual improvement initiativesTranslate production and operator needs into practical automation solutionsPerform software backups, system testing, and documentation updatesPLC & Automation ExperienceExperience programming or supporting one or more of the following PLC platforms:Allen-Bradley PLCSiemens S7 / TIA PortalGE Innovation Series ControllersGE RX3i ControllersToshiba NV ControllersGE Genius Block I/O NetworksHMI ExperienceExperience with one or more of the following HMI platforms:IgnitionGE CimplicityWinCCRockwell Automation HMI softwareRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering disciplineMinimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience programming PLCsStrong knowledge of AC/DC electrical controls, motors, and variable frequency drivesExperience developing PLC ladder logic using Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516Understanding of industrial communication protocols, including Profibus and ProfinetExperience troubleshooting automation systems, PLCs, HMIs, communication networks, and industrial equipmentAbility to manage electrical and automation projects from planning through implementationProficiency with Microsoft Office applicationsExperience with data acquisition software (IBA/PDA preferred)Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem solving skillsAbility to communicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, engineers, and leadershipWillingness to work both in an office environment and on the manufacturing floorPreferred ExperienceIndustrial manufacturing, metals, steel, or heavy manufacturing experienceExperience with SCADA systemsKnowledge of instrumentation, hydraulics, and pneumaticsExperience supporting continuous improvement and equipment reliability initiativesWhat We're Looking ForStrong technical aptitude with a hands-on approach to solving equipment issuesExcellent communication and collaboration skillsAbility to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentDetail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, reliability, and operational excellence#J-18808-Ljbffr