Automation & Controls Engineer
Location: Henrico, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Compensation: Starts at $100,000 annually (higher based on experience)
Position Summary
An established manufacturing operation is seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to support and enhance plant automation systems. This position plays a key role in maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving process control technologies used throughout production operations.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and electrical controls. This individual will partner with cross-functional teams to deliver automation projects, improve system reliability, and ensure compliance within a regulated manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Automation & Controls Projects
- Assist with the planning, execution, and completion of automation and process control initiatives.
- Participate in project scheduling, vendor coordination, equipment selection, system commissioning, and project documentation.
- Configure, program, test, and support PLC-based control systems, operator interfaces, SCADA platforms, and drive systems.
- Contribute technical expertise to automation-related electrical installations and upgrades. Equipment Support & Troubleshooting
- Provide technical support for automated manufacturing equipment and process control systems.
- Investigate and resolve issues involving PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, industrial communications networks, and control panels.
- Recommend corrective actions and system improvements to enhance equipment performance and reliability. System Reliability & Regulatory Compliance
- Support ongoing maintenance of automation systems to ensure operational readiness and compliance.
- Maintain system backups, recovery procedures, and documentation records.
- Coordinate with equipment suppliers and service providers during upgrades, repairs, and validation activities. Documentation & Change Management
- Support engineering change control activities and technical documentation updates.
- Assist with verification, testing, and implementation of control system modifications.
- Participate in internal audits, reviews, and compliance-related activities. Safety & Quality
- Follow all site safety procedures and quality standards.
- Complete required technical, operational, and compliance training programs.
- Promote safe work practices while supporting manufacturing operations.
Qualifications
- Education
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Experience
- 5–10 years of experience working with industrial control systems and automation technologies.
- Experience supporting manufacturing operations required.
- Prior experience in regulated manufacturing environments is highly desirable. Technical Expertise
- Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting.
- Working knowledge of SCADA platforms and HMI development/support.
- Familiarity with VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and industrial electrical equipment.
- Experience troubleshooting industrial communication networks.
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Work Conditions
- Occasional after-hours or emergency support may be required to support continuous manufacturing operations.
- Regular interaction with production equipment and industrial electrical systems.
- Ability to stand, walk, and safely lift up to 50 pounds while utilizing appropriate PPE.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary starting at $100,000+ based on experience
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage
- 401(k) plan with company matching and immediate vesting
- Paid vacation, holidays, and personal time
- Employee referral incentives
- Onsite employee amenities
- Professional development and advancement opportunities
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related discipline
- 5-10 years of experience with industrial control systems and automation technologies
- Experience supporting manufacturing operations
- Prior experience in regulated manufacturing environments
- Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting
- Working knowledge of SCADA platforms and HMI development/support
- Familiarity with VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and industrial electrical equipment
- Experience troubleshooting industrial communication networks
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
What We Do
Qualdoc is a global organization providing industrial staffing, contract manufacturing, and supply chain management services. They specialize in engineering support, metrology, and quality assurance for sectors including aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and power. The company focuses on building partnerships to ensure speed-to-market and low-risk manufacturing, offering services ranging from prototype development to high-volume production and in-country procurement support for clients worldwide.
