Automation & Controls Engineer – Manufacturing Systems in Petersburg, Virginia at Qualdoc, LLC
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Job Description
Automation & Controls Engineer – Manufacturing Systems
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Compensation: Starting at $70,000 annually (based on experience)
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to support, maintain, and enhance industrial control systems within a manufacturing environment. This role blends hands-on troubleshooting with system design and continuous improvement, working closely with operations and maintenance teams to drive performance and reliability.
Key Responsibilities- Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based control systems across production equipment
- Design and enhance HMI interfaces to improve usability and operator interaction
- Diagnose issues related to automation systems, instrumentation, and industrial networks
- Lead or support initiatives focused on increasing equipment uptime and process efficiency
- Analyze system and production data to identify trends and recommend improvements
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective solutions
- Assist with planning system upgrades, shutdowns, and equipment modifications
- Improve alarm management, reporting tools, and overall control system functionality
- Translate operational requirements into effective automation solutions
- Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal)
- Allen-Bradley
- GE / RX3i
- Toshiba NV
HMI / SCADA Systems
- Ignition
- Cimplicity
- WinCC
- Rockwell platforms
Networking & Systems
- Profibus / Profinet
- Industrial communication protocols
- Data acquisition systems (IBA or PDA experience preferred)
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in industrial or manufacturing environments
- Strong background in PLC programming and troubleshooting
- Experience with motors, drives, and AC/DC control systems
- Proficiency in ladder logic programming
- Ability to manage automation projects from concept through implementation
- Comfortable working in both office and plant floor settings
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective communication across technical and operations teams
- Support automation systems used in heavy industrial processes
- Maintain system backups and ensure control system reliability
- Improve instrumentation performance and system response
- Identify and implement upgrades to existing equipment and controls
- Contribute to long-term automation and continuous improvement strategies
- Combination of hands-on fieldwork and engineering responsibilities
- Team-oriented environment focused on safety and operational excellence
- Opportunities for training, skill development, and career advancement
Why This Role
This is a strong opportunity for an automation professional who enjoys solving complex technical challenges while contributing to system reliability and production efficiency in a dynamic manufacturing setting.