Automation Control Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Automation Controls Technician
Job Description

The Automation Controls Technician helps power automation on the production floor by developing, programming, maintaining, and improving automated and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operations. This hands-on technical role works closely with cross-functional teams to diagnose issues, enhance control processes, support new equipment implementations, and optimize existing systems. The position focuses on maximizing uptime, driving innovation, and supporting continuous improvement throughout the facility.

Responsibilities

• Develop, program, and deploy automated control solutions to support production operations.
• Diagnose and repair electrical and mechanical problems in automation and robotic systems.
• Troubleshoot AC, DC, and servo motor control systems, as well as instrumentation controls.
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on control systems and equipment.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance work, repairs, system updates, and changes to control programs.
• Respond quickly to equipment failures and resolve control-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to design, integrate, and optimize automation and robotics solutions.
• Test, calibrate, and validate control devices and instrumentation to ensure accurate and stable operation.
• Assist in creating, implementing, and maintaining preventative maintenance programs for automated equipment.
• Monitor system performance and implement improvements to enhance reliability, efficiency, and safety.
• Install, configure, and program industrial robots, PLCs, and HMIs to meet production requirements.
• Ensure all automation and robotic systems meet applicable safety standards, regulations, and best practices.
• Train operators on the proper use and basic troubleshooting of control systems and automated equipment.
• Mentor and support other maintenance team members by sharing technical knowledge and best practices.
• Contribute to ongoing continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation, reliability, and process optimization.
• Conduct risk analysis related to automation and control changes to support safe and effective implementation.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• 6–8 years of experience in industrial automation, controls, PLC programming, and troubleshooting (experience in food manufacturing is preferred).
• Strong knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and industrial control systems.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical systems, including AC, DC, and servo motor controls.
• Experience with electrical systems, instrumentation, and process controls.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical, and industrial maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and repair automation and robotic systems.
• Experience with PLC control and PLC troubleshooting in an industrial environment.
• Strong skills in electrical troubleshooting for industrial automation equipment.
• Ability to perform risk analysis related to automation and control systems.
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing learning and skill development.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in industrial automation within a manufacturing environment, with food manufacturing experience considered a plus.
• Familiarity with hydraulics and pneumatics in automated and industrial systems.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives in a production setting.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are a plus.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and support knowledge sharing.
• Strong documentation skills for recording maintenance activities, system updates, and control changes.
• Ability to train and mentor operators and maintenance team members on automation systems.

Why Work Here?

You will join a workplace that invests in your growth through a structured training program designed to build your industry knowledge and technical expertise. As you develop your skills, you gain clear opportunities for advancement and pay progression, creating a long-term career path rather than just a job. The environment encourages continuous learning, supports professional development, and recognizes employees who contribute to improvement and reliability across the operation.

Work Environment

This role is based in a production facility with a strong focus on industrial automation, robotics, and control systems. You will work with technologies such as industrial robots, PLCs, HMIs, AC and DC drives, servo systems, instrumentation, and various electrical and mechanical components. The position follows a 1st shift schedule with rotating weekly hours: Week 1 consists of 5 days (Monday–Thursday and Saturday, with Friday and Sunday off), and Week 2 consists of 6 days (Monday–Friday and Sunday, with Saturday off). You can expect a hands-on environment that involves working on and around production equipment, performing inspections, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance on automated systems.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Bridgewater, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $114000.00 - $114000.00/yr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Bridgewater,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 29, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.