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Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

advansix

Lead Automation & Controls Engineer

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$118K - $178K/yr

The Automation and Process Control Engineer will also implement and maintain add-on automation enhancements such as APC, alarm management and monitoring, control loop tuning software, and control ...

AdvanSix

Lead Automation & Controls Engineer

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$118K - $178K/yr

The Automation and Process Control Engineer will also implement and maintain add-on automation enhancements such as APC, alarm management and monitoring, control loop tuning software, and control ...

ITAC

Controls Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Overview As a Controls Engineer at ITAC, you will play a key role in the design and implementation ... automation improvements. * Improve alarm management, reporting systems, and operator interfaces.

ITAC

Controls Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Overview As a Controls Engineer at ITAC, you will play a key role in the design and implementation ... automation improvements. * Improve alarm management, reporting systems, and operator interfaces.

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

Automation Controls Manager information

See Chester, VA salary details

$28.5K

$107.3K

$156K

How much do automation controls manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls manager in Chester, VA is $107,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,200.00 and $127,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls manager?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Manager, you need expertise in control systems engineering, PLC programming, industrial automation, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMI software, industry-standard PLCs (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help manage teams and facilitate cross-departmental collaboration. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems that drive operational efficiency and safety.

What is an automation controls manager?

Automation Controls Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems within manufacturing or industrial environments. They manage teams of engineers and technicians, ensure that control systems operate efficiently and safely, and coordinate improvements to increase productivity. Typically, they also work on troubleshooting and upgrading control hardware and software, while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Their role is crucial in optimizing automated processes and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by automation controls managers when overseeing multidisciplinary teams?

Automation Controls Managers often coordinate between engineering, IT, and operations departments, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Managing projects that involve both hardware and software components requires strong organizational skills and the ability to translate technical requirements across disciplines. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving automation technologies while ensuring team members receive proper training is a key aspect of the role. Successful managers foster collaboration by promoting open communication and cross-functional problem-solving.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Manager vs Automation Technician?

AspectAutomation Controls ManagerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Associate degree or technical diploma, certifications like Siemens or Allen-Bradley technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees automation projects, manages teams, coordinates with engineering and managementPerforms hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation systems
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, industrial facilities, and large-scale automation settingsCommon in factories, plants, and maintenance departments

The Automation Controls Manager focuses on overseeing automation projects and managing teams, requiring higher-level credentials and strategic responsibilities. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles the technical installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in automation environments but differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Manager jobs in Chester, VA? For Automation Controls Manager jobs in Chester, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Manager jobs in Chester, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Manager jobs in Chester, VA are:
What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Automation Controls Manager jobs? Cities near Chester, VA with the most Automation Controls Manager job openings:
Automation Controls Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Manager job openings in Chester, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,304 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer

Qualdoc

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$70K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer
Job Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Location: Petersburg, VA
Starting Salary: $70,000/year (Compensation may be higher based on experience.)
Position Overview
We are seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Engineer to support automation, electrical control systems, and continuous improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This position combines hands-on troubleshooting with engineering design and programming to improve equipment reliability, production efficiency, and process performance.
The ideal candidate enjoys working both in the office and on the production floor while collaborating with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to solve complex automation challenges.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Develop, modify, and support PLC programs used in manufacturing operations
  • Program and maintain HMI applications to improve operator interface and equipment performance
  • Troubleshoot automation, communication, instrumentation, electrical, and HMI-related issues
  • Lead projects that improve automation reliability, equipment uptime, and manufacturing efficiency
  • Partner with production and maintenance teams to identify opportunities for process improvements
  • Analyze equipment performance data and recommend corrective actions to improve reliability
  • Support equipment upgrades, installations, modifications, and modernization projects
  • Improve alarm management and operator interface functionality
  • Participate in failure analysis and root cause investigations involving automation systems
  • Assist with maintenance planning, outage scheduling, and annual improvement initiatives
  • Translate production and operator needs into practical automation solutions
  • Perform software backups, system testing, and documentation updates

PLC & Automation Experience
Experience programming or supporting one or more of the following PLC platforms:
  • Allen-Bradley PLC
  • Siemens S7 / TIA Portal
  • GE Innovation Series Controllers
  • GE RX3i Controllers
  • Toshiba NV Controllers
  • GE Genius Block I/O Networks

HMI Experience
Experience with one or more of the following HMI platforms:
  • Ignition
  • GE Cimplicity
  • WinCC
  • Rockwell Automation HMI software

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience programming PLCs
  • Strong knowledge of AC/DC electrical controls, motors, and variable frequency drives
  • Experience developing PLC ladder logic using Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516
  • Understanding of industrial communication protocols, including Profibus and Profinet
  • Experience troubleshooting automation systems, PLCs, HMIs, communication networks, and industrial equipment
  • Ability to manage electrical and automation projects from planning through implementation
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
  • Experience with data acquisition software (IBA/PDA preferred)
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, engineers, and leadership
  • Willingness to work both in an office environment and on the manufacturing floor

Preferred Experience
  • Industrial manufacturing, metals, steel, or heavy manufacturing experience
  • Experience with SCADA systems
  • Knowledge of instrumentation, hydraulics, and pneumatics
  • Experience supporting continuous improvement and equipment reliability initiatives

What We're Looking For
  • Strong technical aptitude with a hands-on approach to solving equipment issues
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, reliability, and operational excellence

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

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