Industrial Automation Engineer – Electrical & Controls at qualdoc

Automation & Controls Engineer (Electrical / Instrumentation)  Location: Petersburg, VA Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Salary: Starts at $70,000+ (depending on experience)  Overview 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. 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