Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Starting Salary: $70,000+ (Compensation may be higher based on experience.)
We are seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer to support and improve manufacturing operations through automation, electrical systems, and process optimization. This hands-on role combines office-based engineering with field support, giving you the opportunity to troubleshoot equipment, develop control solutions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across a high-volume industrial facility.
Working closely with production, maintenance, and leadership teams, you will help maintain reliable operations while implementing automation enhancements that improve safety, efficiency, and equipment performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Automation & Control Systems
- Program, modify, and maintain PLC systems that support manufacturing operations.
- Develop and update ladder logic for Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516 platforms.
- Maintain software backups and support automation reliability initiatives.
- Lead projects focused on improving automation performance and operational stability.
- Translate operator requests into practical automation solutions. PLC Experience
- GE Innovation Series Controllers
- Toshiba NV Controllers
- RX3i Controllers
- GE Genius Block I/O Networks
- Siemens S7 / TIA
- Allen Bradley PLCs HMI & Software Development
- GE Cimplicity
- Ignition
- WIN CC
- Rockwell Automation platforms Process Improvement & Reliability
- Troubleshoot automation, communication, HMI, and instrumentation issues.
- Identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
- Improve alarm functionality and reporting for operators and maintenance teams.
- Collect, analyze, and report equipment performance data.
- Recommend and support equipment upgrades, renovations, installations, and system improvements.
- Participate in failure analysis and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support planning and execution of scheduled maintenance outages and shutdowns.
- Assist with annual operational planning activities.
Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:
Modify and support HMI applications using one or more of the following:
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering.
- Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience programming PLCs.
- Strong knowledge of AC/DC control systems, motors, and drives.
- Experience overseeing electrical projects, including design, implementation, maintenance, and operational safety.
- Experience programming Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516 PLCs and developing ladder logic.
- Understanding of PLC communication protocols, with Profibus and Profinet preferred.
- Ability to troubleshoot automation, communication, and HMI-related equipment issues.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data acquisition software (IBA/PDA preferred).
- Comfortable working both in an office environment and on the manufacturing floor.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to perform complex system testing.
- Excellent communication skills with operators, maintenance personnel, and leadership teams.
Preferred Background
- BSEE (Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering)
- Automation Engineering
- Controls Engineering
- Process Engineering
- PLC Programming
- HMI/SCADA Systems
- Control Systems
- Hydraulics and Pneumatics
- AC/DC Drives and Motors
- Industrial Manufacturing, Metals, or Steel Production
Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
What You'll Bring
- A hands-on approach to automation and process improvement.
- The ability to collaborate across multiple departments.
- Strong technical expertise in industrial controls and electrical systems.
- A continuous improvement mindset focused on reliability, productivity, and operational excellence.
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.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering
- Minimum 5 years manufacturing experience programming PLCs
- Experience programming Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516 PLCs and developing ladder logic
- Strong knowledge of AC/DC control systems, motors, and drives
- Experience overseeing electrical projects including design, implementation, maintenance, and operational safety
- Ability to troubleshoot automation, communication, HMI, and instrumentation issues
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Understanding of PLC communication protocols (Profibus and Profinet preferred)
- Proficiency with data acquisition software (IBA/PDA)
- Experience with PLC platforms such as GE Innovation Series, Toshiba NV, RX3i, GE Genius, Siemens S7/TIA, Allen Bradley
- Experience modifying and supporting HMI applications (GE Cimplicity, Ignition, WIN CC, Rockwell platforms)
- Hands-on manufacturing floor experience and comfort working in both office and field environments
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication
- Experience in industrial manufacturing, metals, or steel production; hydraulics and pneumatics; AC/DC drives and motors
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.
