Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation)

Qualdoc • Petersburg, VA

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to support electrical and instrumentation systems within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for maintaining and improving automated processes, supporting production uptime, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across operations. This position combines hands-on fieldwork with engineering analysis and project ownership, making it ideal for someone who enjoys both troubleshooting and system optimization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Strong understanding of AC/DC electrical systems, motors, and drives
• Proven experience with PLC programming and industrial automation systems
• Ability to manage electrical or controls-related projects from concept through execution
• Strong troubleshooting skills across automation, instrumentation, and control systems
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering-related software
• Comfortable working both in an office setting and hands-on in the field
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multiple teams
• Detail-oriented with a problem-solving mindset

Nice To Haves

• Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal, S7-1516)
• Allen-Bradley / Rockwell
• GE / Emerson RX3i and related systems
• Toshiba control systems
• Ignition
• WinCC
• GE Cimplicity
• Rockwell HMI platforms
• Industrial communication protocols such as Profibus and Profinet
• Data acquisition tools (IBA, PDA, or similar)

Responsibilities

• Support and enhance automation systems across production equipment and processes
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC systems and associated ladder logic
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to automation, communication networks, and HMI systems
• Perform system testing, failure analysis, and implement corrective actions
• Maintain backups of control systems and ensure reliability of automation infrastructure
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and leadership to support continuous production
• Translate operational needs into actionable control system improvements
• Lead initiatives to improve system stability, throughput, and equipment performance
• Analyze asset performance data and recommend process enhancements
• Improve alarm systems, reporting functionality, and operator interface usability
• Support planning and execution of maintenance outages and system upgrades
• Participate in long-term improvement planning and engineering projects

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting day one
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Tuition assistance and ongoing training programs
• Employee support programs and wellness resources
• Performance-based bonus opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees