What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer position at Qualdoc?
Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Starting Salary: $70,000 (Compensation may be higher based on experience.)
Position Overview
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.
\nAutomation & 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
Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:
- GE Innovation Series Controllers
- Toshiba NV Controllers
- RX3i Controllers
- GE Genius Block I/O Networks
- Siemens S7 / TIA
- Allen Bradley PLCs
HMI & Software Development
Modify and support HMI applications using one or more of the following:
- 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.
- 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.
Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
- 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
- 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.