Automation & Controls Engineer

Automation & Controls Engineer

Location: Henrico, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Compensation: Starts at $100,000 annually (higher based on experience)

Position Summary

An established manufacturing operation is seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to support and enhance plant automation systems. This position plays a key role in maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving process control technologies used throughout production operations.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and electrical controls. This individual will partner with cross-functional teams to deliver automation projects, improve system reliability, and ensure compliance within a regulated manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the planning, execution, and completion of automation and process control initiatives.
• Participate in project scheduling, vendor coordination, equipment selection, system commissioning, and project documentation.
• Configure, program, test, and support PLC-based control systems, operator interfaces, SCADA platforms, and drive systems.
• Contribute technical expertise to automation-related electrical installations and upgrades.
• Provide technical support for automated manufacturing equipment and process control systems.
• Investigate and resolve issues involving PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, industrial communications networks, and control panels.
• Recommend corrective actions and system improvements to enhance equipment performance and reliability.
• Support ongoing maintenance of automation systems to ensure operational readiness and compliance.
• Maintain system backups, recovery procedures, and documentation records.
• Coordinate with equipment suppliers and service providers during upgrades, repairs, and validation activities.
• Support engineering change control activities and technical documentation updates.
• Assist with verification, testing, and implementation of control system modifications.
• Participate in internal audits, reviews, and compliance-related activities.
• Follow all site safety procedures and quality standards.
• Complete required technical, operational, and compliance training programs.
• Promote safe work practices while supporting manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 5–10 years of experience working with industrial control systems and automation technologies.
• Experience supporting manufacturing operations required.
• Prior experience in regulated manufacturing environments is highly desirable.
• Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Working knowledge of SCADA platforms and HMI development/support.
• Familiarity with VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and industrial electrical equipment.
• Experience troubleshooting industrial communication networks.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Work Conditions

• Occasional after-hours or emergency support may be required to support continuous manufacturing operations.
• Regular interaction with production equipment and industrial electrical systems.
• Ability to stand, walk, and safely lift up to 50 pounds while utilizing appropriate PPE.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary starting at $100,000+ based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with company matching and immediate vesting
• Paid vacation, holidays, and personal time
• Employee referral incentives
• Onsite employee amenities
• Professional development and advancement opportunities