Electrical Controls Engineer

IMS Gear•Virginia Beach, VA

2d•$80,000 - $100,000

About The Position

IMS Gear is hiring an Electrical Controls Engineer for its Virginia Beach, Virginia location, which produces Horizontal Drive Mechanisms for automobile seats. The role develops, optimizes, and implements manufacturing processes in an assigned production area, focusing on electrical controls and automation. Through hands-on equipment troubleshooting, continuous improvement, and machine performance management, the engineer improves efficiency, maintains quality standards, and supports operational goals. The position combines electrical engineering expertise with hands-on work in PLC programming, robotics, and industrial automation. The engineer also actively supports maintenance by troubleshooting, repairing, and installing production and automation equipment. Work is split between an office and a manufacturing plant, with exposure to noise, machinery, and moving parts; personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and slip-resistant safety-toe shoes, is required in relevant areas.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
At least 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in automated manufacturing systems.
Willingness to actively support maintenance activities, including troubleshooting, repairing, and installing production and automation equipment.

Nice To Haves

Electrical journeyman qualification.
Siemens PLC/HMI programming experience, including TIA Portal and Step 7.
Motoman and Epson SCARA robotics experience.
Knowledge of Keyence vision and inspection systems.

Responsibilities

Design, program, install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical control systems, PLCs, and robotic automation equipment.
Perform hands-on installation, repair, startup, commissioning, and optimization of production and automation machinery.
Troubleshoot electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems hands-on.
Read and interpret electrical and pneumatic schematics.
Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair sensors, vision and camera inspection systems, and other automated production equipment.
Provide direct hands-on technical support for maintenance activities and production operations.
Follow and reinforce applicable safety rules, policies, and procedures.
Provide on-call support during critical operations, equipment failures, or project commissioning phases.