Industrial Automation Engineer – Electrical & Controls chez Qualdoc

Industrial Automation Engineer – Electrical & Controls
Location: Petersburg, VA
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Salary: Starting at $70,000+ (based on experience)

Role Overview

We are seeking an Industrial Automation Engineer to support electrical and instrumentation systems in a heavy manufacturing setting. This position plays a critical role in maintaining automated operations, improving system reliability, and driving performance across production processes.

This is a hybrid-style role combining hands-on troubleshooting in the field with engineering analysis and project ownership.

Core Responsibilities

Maintain and improve automation systems supporting production equipment
Program, update, and troubleshoot PLCs and ladder logic
Identify and resolve issues involving automation systems, HMIs, and industrial networks
Conduct testing, root cause analysis, and implement corrective solutions
Manage control system backups and ensure system integrity
Partner with operations and maintenance teams to sustain production uptime
Translate operational challenges into control system improvements
Lead initiatives to enhance system performance, throughput, and reliability
Analyze equipment and process data to recommend improvements
Optimize alarm management, reporting tools, and operator interfaces
Support maintenance outages, upgrades, and system installations
Contribute to long-term engineering projects and continuous improvement efforts

Technical Environment

Controls & PLC Platforms (experience with one or more):

• Siemens (S7, TIA Portal, S7-1516)
• Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
• GE / Emerson RX3i systems
• Toshiba controls

HMI / Visualization Tools:

• Ignition
• WinCC
• GE Cimplicity
• Rockwell HMI platforms

Industrial Networks & Data Systems:

• Communication protocols such as Profibus and Profinet
• Data acquisition tools (IBA, PDA, or similar)

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline
At least 5 years of experience in industrial or manufacturing environments
Strong knowledge of AC/DC systems, motors, and drive technologies
Hands-on experience with PLC programming and automation systems
Proven ability to manage controls or electrical projects from start to finish
Advanced troubleshooting skills across automation and instrumentation systems
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering-related software
Comfortable working both in-office and in a production environment
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Detail-oriented with a strong analytical mindset

Project & System Focus Areas

Automation systems supporting heavy equipment and production lines
Process optimization and system reliability improvements
Instrumentation upgrades and control system enhancements
Continuous improvement initiatives targeting efficiency and output
Equipment upgrades, installations, and modernization efforts

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience
Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on 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 opportunities
Employee assistance and wellness programs
Performance-based bonus opportunities