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Electrical Controls Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

As an Controls Technician - Electrical, you will install, maintain, test, startup, and adjust a wide variety of electrical, electronic, electropneumatic, and electro-mechanical instrumentation and ...

As an Controls Technician - Electrical, you will install, maintain, test, startup, and adjust a wide variety of electrical, electronic, electropneumatic, and electro-mechanical instrumentation and ...

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Electrical Controls information

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$16

$31

$45

How much do electrical controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical controls in Virginia is $31.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $35.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is electrical controls?

Electrical controls refer to systems and devices used to manage, regulate, and automate the operation of electrical equipment and machinery. These controls can include components such as relays, sensors, switches, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and control panels. Electrical controls are commonly found in manufacturing plants, HVAC systems, and other industrial or commercial settings, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Professionals working in electrical controls are responsible for designing, installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining these systems.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in electrical controls roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Electrical Controls often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automated systems, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous learning, effective cross-functional communication with engineers and technicians, and meticulous documentation of control system changes. Collaborating closely with team members and participating in ongoing training sessions can greatly enhance problem-solving capabilities and minimize downtime in production environments.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, control system design, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or ISA CAP is highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and address complex system issues. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated processes in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Electrical Controls vs Electrical Wiring?

AspectElectrical ControlsElectrical Wiring
CertificationsTypically requires certifications in control systems, PLC programming, and electrical safetyRequires electrical licensing and wiring certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, control panels, automation systemsConstruction sites, residential, commercial buildings
Job FocusDesign, installation, and maintenance of control systems and panelsInstallation and repair of electrical wiring and circuits
Tools & SkillsPLC programming, control panel assembly, troubleshooting control systemsWire strippers, conduit benders, circuit testing

Electrical Controls specialists focus on designing, installing, and maintaining control systems and panels used in automation and industrial processes. Electrical Wiring professionals handle the installation and repair of electrical circuits and wiring in buildings. While both roles require electrical knowledge and safety certifications, Electrical Controls work emphasizes control systems and automation, whereas Electrical Wiring centers on circuit installation and maintenance.

Infographic showing various Electrical Controls job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,932 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Lead Electrical/Controls Engineer

Kaiser Aluminum

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Kaiser Aluminum rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

297th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

The Lead Electrical/Controls Engineer provides technical expertise tooptimize highly automated manufacturingequipment and processesthrough visual systems, automation and advanced levels of process control. The role also develops, plans, organizes, andleads reliability, and improvement projects in the plant. This position provides technical support to Operations and the Maintenance team at our Bellwood Virginia aluminum extrusion and tube mill plant on the south side of Richmond.

What you will work on:

  • Design, development and implementation of visual systems to help reduce errors and reduce cost through increased manufacturing efficiency
  • Provide technical support to operations as necessary
  • Combine theoretical and practical knowledge toward innovation of new products and processes
  • Work independently on smaller projects from conception to completion. This work will include "hands-on" type projects
  • Work in cross-functional teams to support business goals and objectives
  • Thoroughly document all technical work that is completed
  • Function as a shared resource within the production value streams for assistance in difficult problem solving
  • Lead and/or contribute to continuous improvement and six sigma project teams
  • Support plant safety initiatives through active involvement in the safety process
  • Support and lead plant industrial electrical systems
  • Leading and participating in process improvements with multi-discipline technical staff, maintenance and production.
  • Mentoring employees to increase their knowledge of equipment and process.

  • Working to eliminate waste through reliability improvements and monitoring processes, ensuring they are in control and meeting expectations.

What you will bring to the role:

  • A Bachelor's Degree or higher in a related technical degreeis preferred.
  • A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, or a related technical degree, is preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing operation.
  • High level of competency with Allen-Bradley PLC (Control Logix 5000), HMI (Allen Bradley ME and SE), and Allen-Bradley motor drives.

Other skills:

  • Excellent equipment troubleshooting abilities is essential.
  • Strong analytical problem-solving and organization skills.
  • PC proficiency including, but not limited to, the use of Word, Excel, and Power Point.
  • Solid interpersonal skills, including verbal and written communication.
  • Proven ability to work in a low supervision environment while successfully meeting goals.
  • Willingness to work around large manufacturing equipment and furnaces.
  • Experiencewith technical projects/initiatives in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Strong PC skills, including Windows, Word, Excel, various data collection and analysis packages.
  • Proven ability to work in teams.
  • Robotics experience is a plus.
  • AutoCAD Electrical.
  • Industrial networking.

No third-party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture.


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