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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Chester, VA

Jewett Automation, LLC

Sr Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Senior Electrical Controls Engineer will be a key player in designing, programming, and ... Experience with custom automation systems is a significant plus. * Excellent problem-solving skills ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · Hybrid

$85K - $110K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Sonoco Products Company

Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $114K/yr

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for maintaining, upgrading, and optimizing the control ... Acting as project lead for automation and control projects. * Utilizing loop sheets, and electrical ...

Sonoco

Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $114K/yr

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for maintaining, upgrading, and optimizing the control ... Acting as project lead for automation and control projects. * Utilizing loop sheets, and electrical ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Experis

PLC Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$50 - $53/hr

Our client, a leader in industrial automation and manufacturing solutions, is seeking a PLC Controls Engineer to join their team. As a PLC Controls Engineer, you will be part of the Engineering ...

Experis

PLC Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$50 - $53/hr

Our client, a leader in industrial automation and manufacturing solutions, is seeking a PLC Controls Engineer to join their team. As a PLC Controls Engineer, you will be part of the Engineering ...

STSI (Staffing Technical Services Inc.)

Be Seen First

Automation Engineer (35609)

Richmond, VA

$50 - $80/hr

Automation / EI&C Engineer - PLC, SCADA & Controls Location: Richmond, VA OR Minneapolis, MN OR Seattle, WA Compensation: $50 to $80/hour, depending on experience Travel: Approximately 20 to 25 ...

Eaton

Senior Microgrid Controls Engineer

Sandston, VA · On-site

$86K - $126K/yr

Eaton's Electrical Engineering Services & Systems division is hiring a Senior Microgrid Controls ... Create, modify, test, and deploy software for Automation Controllers and Human Machine Interfaces ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Chester, VA

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Chester, VA salary details

$42.3K

$90.4K

$129.3K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Chester, VA is $90,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation controls engineer?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What does an automation controls engineer do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges automation controls engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

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Cities near Chester, VA with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:

Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Chester, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,353 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Inc

Richmond, VA • On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:

  • 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history
  • Rated as a top System Integrator Giant

We have a Controls Engineer position in Richmond, VA.This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance.

Please Note: This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, including H-1B sponsorship.

  • Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process system requirements
  • Develops schematics detailing control system configuration and wiring, and design equipment panel layouts on AutoCAD software
  • Develop Sequence of Operation document detailing control strategies for the process under control. Lead design reviews with customer for review and approval of design documents
  • Work at customer site to perform the system checkout and start-up of the integrated control system
  • Develop the final record system documentation and provide system training to the customer
  • Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across multiple industries including both manufacturing production lines and data center building automation
  • Will act as technical lead on projects and guide lower level engineers and technicians
  • Will act as Project Manager on smaller projects ranging from $50K to $250K. This includes but not limited to:
    • Develops and executes implementation plans for the project
    • Assigns work to meet overall project deadlines
    • Ensures that all project team members clearly understand the scope of W-M responsibilities
    • Develops schedules for W-M and customer requirements
    • Evaluates progress on project and details changes
    • Responsible for all purchasing and subcontractor requirements
    • Responsible for development of costs and proposal of change orders to contract scope

EducationBS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred.

ExperienceThree to five years’ experience in areas below:

  • An in-depth understanding of control systems, components, logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP) required. Experience with AutoCAD is also desired
  • Strong inter-personnel skills. Ability to communicate and work with both team members, subcontractors and clients
  • Ability to travel up to 50%

Physical Demands of PositionSeeing, color perception, hearing, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, and ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling.

Working EnvironmentStandard office environment, diverse industrial environments, frequent PC usage, facsimile/copy machines, phones.

*Job Descriptions are not exhaustive lists of all skills, responsibilities, or efforts associated with a job. They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance.

Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D
  • Long Term Disability
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • 401(k)/Profit Sharing
  • 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Will Preparation Resources
  • Worldwide Travel Assistance

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-WM1

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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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