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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Prince George, VA · On-site

As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Dorsett Controls

Automation Engineer

Vinton, VA

$100K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer - Controls Engineering Expertise Needed (On-site) Location: Vinton, VA Work Location: On-Site Department: Engineering Reports To: Project Manager FLSA Status: Salary Exempt Who We ...

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Rockville, VA · On-site

As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

ITAC

Controls Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Responsibilities Controls & Automation Engineering * Program, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Rockwell Allen-Bradley PLCs and associated control systems. * Develop, modify, and optimize PLC ...

ITAC

Controls Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Responsibilities Controls & Automation Engineering * Program, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Rockwell Allen-Bradley PLCs and associated control systems. * Develop, modify, and optimize PLC ...

ITAC

Controls Engineer

Chester, VA

$76K - $99K/yr

Responsibilities Controls & Automation Engineering * Program, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Rockwell Allen-Bradley PLCs and associated control systems. * Develop, modify, and optimize PLC ...

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Rockville, VA · On-site

As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer, Aerotek

Rockville, VA · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Intellectt INC

Automation Engineer

Staunton, VA · On-site

Automation Engineer/ Controls Engineer Location: Staunton, VA Contract: Long Term Job Summary: Looking for a hands-on Automation Engineer to support automated manufacturing equipment. The role ...

The Richmond Group

Automation Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

Rockwell controls * Instrumentation and calibration oversight * VFD troubleshooting and programming adjustments * HVAC and building automation systems * Centrifugal processing equipment * Slurry and ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

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Controls And Automation Engineer information

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

AspectControls And Automation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or automation engineering; certifications like PLC programming or control system design are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and testing control systems in manufacturing, industrial, or automation settingsDesigning electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry in various industries
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process control industriesWidespread across power, construction, manufacturing, and consulting sectors

Controls And Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems and automation solutions, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in specialization and application areas.

What is a controls and automation engineer?

Controls and Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their main goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability by implementing control systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and robotics. They work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate hardware and software solutions, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure optimal operation of automated processes. These engineers play a vital role in modern industrial settings by enabling advanced automation and data-driven decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls and automation engineer?

To thrive as a Controls and Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial network protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges controls and automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing processes?

One common challenge Controls and Automation Engineers encounter is ensuring that new automation systems are compatible with existing legacy equipment and processes. This often requires careful planning, extensive testing, and sometimes custom interface development to avoid disruptions in production. Additionally, balancing the need for increased automation with maintaining system reliability and safety standards can be complex. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as IT, production, and maintenance, is crucial to address these integration hurdles effectively.
What are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:
Controls And Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution.

Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Qualdoc

Ashland, VA • On-site

$39/hr

Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM-4:00 PM
Starting Pay: From $39.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience)
Overtime: Not Available

Position Overview

We are seeking an Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer to support the design, programming, and commissioning of electrical control systems for material handling equipment and industrial automation applications. This onsite role involves developing new control solutions, enhancing existing systems, and providing technical expertise during installation, startup, and long-term equipment support.

The ideal candidate has experience with PLC programming, industrial electrical controls, automation systems, and manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities
Controls Engineering
  • Design electrical control systems for overhead cranes and other material handling equipment.
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and control logic.
  • Prepare electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.
  • Select and integrate electrical components, including Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), relays, sensors, motor controls, and safety devices.
  • Ensure control system designs comply with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.
Startup & Commissioning
  • Support equipment installation, startup, testing, and commissioning activities.
  • Configure and troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.
  • Verify system performance and optimize control systems before production use.
Technical Support
  • Diagnose electrical and automation issues affecting equipment performance.
  • Assist maintenance and field service teams with advanced troubleshooting.
  • Support equipment upgrades, modernization efforts, and control system retrofit projects.
Project Collaboration
  • Work closely with engineers, technicians, and project managers throughout project execution.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to team members as needed.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing equipment reliability, productivity, and overall system performance.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
  • Minimum of five years of controls engineering experience, preferably involving overhead cranes or other heavy industrial equipment.
  • Hands-on experience with:
    • PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
    • HMI and SCADA systems
    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Motor control systems
  • Ability to create, review, and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control documentation.
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, or similar networks.
  • Understanding of crane motion control systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge operations.
  • Working knowledge of CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with crane automation technologies, including anti-sway systems or load monitoring controls.
  • Background in industrial system integration, equipment startup, and commissioning.
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work safely in industrial manufacturing environments, including elevated work areas when necessary.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, production, and service teams.
Work Environment
  • Full-time onsite position in an industrial manufacturing facility.
  • Occasional travel to customer locations or project sites may be required.
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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