Controls & Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems at qualdoc

Job Title: Industrial Automation Engineer (Controls & Electrical Systems) Location: Petersburg, VA Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Salary: $70,000 – $105,000 Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to support control systems, electrical infrastructure, and process optimization in a manufacturing environment. This role blends hands-on troubleshooting with engineering design and improvement efforts, focusing on increasing equipment reliability and production performance. You’ll partner with operations and maintenance teams to identify issues, implement system enhancements, and support ongoing automation initiatives across the facility. Key Responsibilities • Configure, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based control systems within production operations • Design and improve HMI interfaces to enhance usability and operator efficiency • Diagnose issues involving automation systems, instrumentation, and communication networks • Lead and support projects focused on improving equipment uptime, throughput, and reliability • Analyze equipment data to identify trends and recommend process improvements • Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions • Assist with planning system upgrades, shutdowns, and equipment modifications • Enhance alarm systems, reporting tools, and overall control system functionality • Translate operational needs into effective automation and control solutions Technical Environment PLC Platforms: • 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) Required Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field • Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial or manufacturing environments • Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting • Knowledge of motors, drives, and AC/DC control systems • Experience with ladder logic programming • Ability to manage automation projects from concept through implementation • Comfortable working in both office and production floor environments • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Effective communication skills across technical and operational teams Additional Responsibilities • Support automation systems used in heavy industrial or rolling processes • Maintain system backups and ensure control system integrity • Improve instrumentation performance and system responsiveness • Identify and implement upgrades to existing equipment and controls • Contribute to long-term automation strategies and continuous improvement efforts Work Environment & Growth • Combination of hands-on fieldwork and engineering responsibilities • Collaborative team environment focused on safety and performance • 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.