Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation) in Petersburg, Virginia at Qualdoc, LLC
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Job Description
Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation)
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Salary: Starts at $70,000+ (depending on experience)
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.
Key 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
PLC & Controls Platforms (experience with one or more):
- Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal, S7-1516)
- Allen-Bradley / Rockwell
- GE / Emerson RX3i and related systems
- Toshiba control systems
HMI & Visualization Tools (any of the following):
- Ignition
- WinCC
- GE Cimplicity
- Rockwell HMI platforms
Networks & Systems:
- Industrial communication protocols such as Profibus and Profinet
- Data acquisition tools (IBA, PDA, or similar)
- 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
- Rolling mill or heavy equipment automation systems
- Process optimization and system reliability improvements
- Instrumentation upgrades and control system enhancements
- Continuous improvement initiatives focused on throughput and efficiency
- Equipment modifications, installations, and modernization projects
- 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