Industrial Automation Controls Specialist

Novolex Corporate•Grottoes, VA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

This is a specialized technical position accountable for configuring, optimizing, and safeguarding plant automation systems. Unlike broad maintenance roles, you exercise independent technical judgment, function as a technical authority and extension of management, and directly influence safety systems, production performance, and overall operational efficiency—including independent judgment on operational and personnel matters. Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging for foodservice, delivery and carryout, processing, grocery, retail, and industrial markets. Our expertise spans resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum, and more—delivering 120 product categories, 250 brands, and 39,000+ SKUs, both stock and custom. Our sustainability vision rests on three pillars—products, operations, and people—guiding ambitious goals and wide-ranging initiatives that shape how we design, source, manufacture, and grow.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED.
Associate or bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
3–5 years in industrial maintenance with a strong controls/automation emphasis.
Proven PLC troubleshooting/programming experience; strong background with 480V systems, VFDs, and motor controls.
Skilled at reading electrical schematics and performing system-level diagnostics; works independently with limited supervision.
PLC certification ( Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent ).
Technical degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).
Experience with industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet), HMI configuration, and CMMS (e.g., SAP).

Nice To Haves

Advanced analytical and troubleshooting mindset.
Deep knowledge of industrial automation architectures.
Ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
Clear communicator and effective cross-functional partner.
Sound technical judgment and decisive decision-making.

Responsibilities

Serve as the site’s SME for plant controls: PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP).
Act as the primary escalation point for complex electrical and automation issues across integrated production systems.
Diagnose and resolve PLC-controlled equipment problems; read, interpret, and modify control logic to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
Lead root cause investigations for recurring/critical failures and implement permanent corrective actions.
Provide day-to-day direction to maintenance staff; offer technical guidance to technicians, electromechanics, and operations.
Participate in interviewing and selection of maintenance employees; your recommendations carry weight in hiring outcomes.
Own controls integration on capital projects, from commissioning through startup validation.
Develop and maintain electrical drawings, control documentation, PLC backups, and version control.
Identify and drive automation improvements that elevate uptime, throughput, and system robustness.
Champion safety, including electrical safety practices and strict LOTO adherence.
Collaborate closely with Engineering, Continuous Improvement, and Operations to align controls strategy with production goals.
Coach, train, and elevate the electrical/controls capabilities of the maintenance team; promote accountability and ownership.
Perform other duties as assigned.