What are the responsibilities and job description for the Electrical & Controls Engineer position at Swoon?
Electrical & Controls Engineer
Location: Richmond, VA area (On-site)
We’re seeking an experienced Electrical & Controls Engineer to support and enhance the performance of a highly automated manufacturing facility. This role focuses on improving plant reliability, optimizing equipment through advanced control systems, and providing hands-on technical support to operations and maintenance teams. The position is based at a metal extrusion and tube production site located on the south side of Richmond, Virginia.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and refine visual and automated control systems to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and lower costs
- Provide day-to-day technical assistance to operations and maintenance teams
- Apply both practical and theoretical engineering skills to improve processes and support new technologies
- Independently manage smaller projects from initial concept through implementation, including hands-on troubleshooting
- Collaborate with cross-functional groups to meet plant and business objectives
- Thoroughly document engineering work, modifications, and process improvements
- Serve as a technical resource for complex problem-solving within production areas
- Lead or contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean and Six Sigma efforts
- Support plant safety activities through active engagement and engineering solutions
- Maintain and improve industrial electrical systems within the facility
- Partner with maintenance, operations, and engineering teams to drive process reliability
- Mentor team members to expand their technical knowledge and capability
- Identify and eliminate sources of waste by improving equipment reliability and monitoring process stability
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field (required)
- 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
- Strong skills with Allen-Bradley platforms, including ControlLogix 5000 PLCs, FactoryTalk HMI (ME/SE), and associated motor drive systems
Additional Skills That Will Help You Succeed
- Excellent troubleshooting skills and the ability to solve complex equipment issues
- Strong analytical thinking and organizational abilities
- Proficiency with standard PC tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data analysis software
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Comfort working around heavy industrial equipment and high-temperature processes
- Experience managing technical projects in a plant environment
- Ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-moving setting
- Team-oriented mindset with proven collaboration skills
- Experience with robotics, AutoCAD Electrical, or industrial networking is a plus