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Process Control Engineer Jobs in Richmond, VA (NOW HIRING)

General Information Job ID ATR59800 Posting Job Title Process Control Engineer Locations VA Hopewell Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 11-Mar-2026 Relocation Support Yes Description ...

The Lead Automation and Process Control Engineer provides automation and process control leadership and technical support for DCS (distributed control system) configuration and design. The Automation ...

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 ...

Control Engineer 2

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design and implement ...

Control Engineer

Richmond, VA

$81K - $105K/yr

You will be responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system ... Designs, develops, and implements control systems (logic software and hardware) to meet process ...

Control Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

You will be responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system ... Designs, develops, and implements control systems (logic software and hardware) to meet process ...

Quality Control Engineer

Chester, VA ยท On-site

$69K - $103K/yr

Conduct audits of processes, procedures, and systems to identify improvement opportunities and ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific or technical ...

Conduct audits of processes, procedures, and systems to identify improvement opportunities and ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific or technical ...

Quality Control Engineer

Chester, VA ยท On-site

$69K - $103K/yr

Support Quality Control Laboratory operations, including review and validation of analytical ... Conduct audits of processes, procedures, and systems to identify improvement opportunities and ...

Control Engineer 1

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$68K - $84K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and implement ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Chester, VA ยท On-site

$95K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Control system narratives * Effective use of OSHA-PSM elements including Process Hazards Analysis ...

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Control system narratives * Effective use of OSHA-PSM elements including Process Hazards Analysis ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

The Senior Process Engineer interacts with the plant teams, business groups and R&D to identify and ... Control system narratives * Effective use of OSHA-PSM elements including Process Hazards Analysis ...

Collaborate with engineering and production teams to implement process control plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs). * Leverage expertise to extract valuable insights from complex data sets ...

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Process Control Engineer information

See Richmond, VA salary details

$52K

$97.7K

$145.5K

How much do process control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for process control engineer in Richmond, VA is $97,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $115,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process control engineer?

To thrive as a Process Control Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process automation, and control systems, typically supported by a degree in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industry-specific software like MATLAB or Aspen HYSYS is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and optimized operations within complex industrial environments.

How does a process control engineer typically interact with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing efficiency?

Process Control Engineers frequently collaborate with production, maintenance, and quality assurance teams to optimize manufacturing processes. They analyze system data and work closely with operators to implement control strategies that enhance productivity and minimize downtime. Regular meetings and hands-on troubleshooting sessions are common, allowing engineers to address issues in real time and ensure process changes align with broader operational goals. This collaborative environment provides valuable opportunities to learn from different disciplines and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

What is a process control engineer?

A process control engineer oversees production processes, usually in the chemical or mechanical industry. Their responsibilities include designing, implementing, testing, and making repairs to process control systems. The control engineer's job is to make sure the systems are running efficiently. In some types of production, system control may be done via software.

How much does a process control engineer earn?

A process control engineer's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like manufacturing or oil and gas where control systems are critical.

What is the difference between Process Control Engineer vs Instrumentation Engineer?

AspectProcess Control EngineerInstrumentation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Control Systems certificationsBachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Instrumentation certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesFactory floors, control rooms, maintenance departments
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, chemical, power plants, manufacturingAutomation firms, manufacturing, utilities

Process Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining control systems to optimize industrial processes, while Instrumentation Engineers specialize in selecting, installing, and maintaining measurement and control instruments. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within industrial operations.

What are popular job titles related to Process Control Engineer jobs in Richmond, VA? For Process Control Engineer jobs in Richmond, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Control Engineer jobs in Richmond, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Process Control Engineer jobs in Richmond, VA are:
Infographic showing various Process Control Engineer job openings in Richmond, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,734 per year, or $47 per hour.

Sr. Eng, Process Control

Westrock

Hopewell, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR59800
Posting Job Title
Process Control Engineer
Locations
VA Hopewell
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
11-Mar-2026
Relocation Support
Yes
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
SUMMARY
The Process Control Engineer position: provides technological and engineering expertise for the implementation of new process control technology and equipment; evaluates and resolves problems with existing process control systems utilizing vendor and/or mill maintenance support when necessary; designs and programs changes to the existing process control systems as needed. This position ensures the control systems are properly deployed to provide the greatest return on investment regarding production, costs, quality as well as safe and environmentally sound operations. The Process Control Engineer reports to the Technical Support Manager.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT SMURFIT WESTROCK:
  • Responsible for providing design, implementation, and support for existing and new Process Control systems. This includes Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's), as well as custom control applications used to meet manufacturing needs and production goals.
  • Assists project engineers and managers in the planning, development, and implementation of capital projects.
  • Engages in development of short and long-term planning of system upgrades and migrations.
  • During project design, assists with coordinating the development of control logic and system configuration between the Operating Department and control system suppliers. Participate in factory checkout of equipment prior to delivery to confirm design and functionality.
  • Assists with control system operator training.
  • Maintains a strong emphasis on process improvement projects -- customer focused innovations, cost saving improvements, process optimization, etc.
  • Utilizes a proactive approach and project skills to develop solutions to short and long- term issues.
  • Designs and implements control system logic based on process knowledge, applicable safety and environmental requirements, operational need, and maintenance requirements that provide clearly defined benefits.
  • Works closely with Maintenance and Operations to identify and resolve issues.
  • Leads troubleshooting efforts of systems and processes. Helps promote technical skills in E\I technicians.
  • Manage and direct consultants, contractors, and vendors during controls related projects.
  • As part of the Process Control team, shares in the responsibility of providing weekend and off-hour availability to support Process Control and IT mill needs as well as startup support from planned and unplanned shutdowns.
  • Adheres to all mill safety rules, participates in, or may lead safety programs and meetings with the goal of improving safety at the mill. Supports the mill behavior-based safety program.
  • Maintains mill-wide data historian (OSIsoft Pi) and related interfaces.
  • Evaluates, troubleshoots, and maintains system hardware.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED:
Required Experience
  • A minimum of five years of industrial experience in DCS, PLC and HMI applications
  • Strong knowledge of field instrumentation, control devices, and motor controls required.
  • Process control experience within paper industry experience preferred.
  • Strong troubleshooting skillset for evaluating root cause and addressing technical issues with long term solutions in mind.
  • Experience with ABB 800XA, Honeywell Experion, Voith QCS, Rockwell PLC Systems, GE Mark VI, GE drive Systems.
  • Experience with Ethernet networks including configuration of switches, routers and VLANs.
  • Experience with control loop tuning and performance evaluation tools.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Results oriented individual capable of handling projects individually, yet able to work efficiently in a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to drive large scale control system projects from concept to commissioning.
  • Ability to read and understand P&ID's loop sheets, and electrical drawings.
  • Additional skills needed: self-directed, flexible, self-learner, multitasking, results driven, safety focused.

Plus (Not Required):
  • B.S. Degree in Chemical, Electrical, Pulp & Paper Engineering or other engineering degree with adequate DCS, PLC and HMI application experience.
  • Experience in a 24/7 manufacturing environment
  • Experience with Anti-Virus products such as McAfee and Symantec
  • Experience with VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) environments utilizing Thin/Zero clients
  • Expertise with all Windows operating systems (Server and Workstation)
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office365 application suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, etc.)
  • Ability to support other devices such as Vehicle Mounted Units (VMUs), Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), and Cameras
  • Understanding of Industrial Communication Protocols such as Modbus TCP, Ethernet/IP, OPC, Wireless HART, etc.
  • Experience with Ethernet networks including configuration of switches, routers and VLANs.

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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
The salary range for this position is $98,250.00 - $163,750.00, depending on your role, level, and location. The range listed is also the expected pay for roles in Illinois and Colorado. The benefits for this role include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 15 days of paid vacation, and 11 days of paid holidays, subject to annual change. Your pay will be based on factors such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about this posting, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process. You may apply online at Smurfit Westrock External Careers and the application window is expected to close by 15-Mar-2028.