⚙️ Automation Control Engineer
📍 Location: Richmond, Virginia (On-site, Second/Split Shift: 7 PM – 3 AM)
🏭 Industry: Food & Beverages / Manufacturing
🎓 Education: Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Technology, or related field (preferred)
💼 Experience Level: Mid–Senior (5+ years)
🚫 Visa Sponsorship: Not available
🚚 Relocation: Not available
💰 Compensation: $83,800 – $115,225 base salary + bonus eligibility + full benefits
🕓 Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
🌟 The Opportunity
Join a global leader in food and snack manufacturing as an Automation Control Engineer — a critical role driving reliability, efficiency, and innovation within a fast-paced production environment.
You’ll take ownership of automation systems, PLCs, and instrumentation, ensuring seamless operations and minimal downtime. Working on the second shift, you’ll support high-speed packaging lines and advanced control systems while leading troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimization initiatives.
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on engineer who thrives in a dynamic manufacturing setting and enjoys solving complex automation challenges.
🧭 Key Responsibilities
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Provide hands-on support for routine maintenance, repair, and calibration of automation equipment, PLCs, and control systems.
Diagnose complex electrical, mechanical, and programming issues quickly to reduce downtime and boost productivity.
Collaborate with electricians and cross-functional teams to maintain system reliability and performance.
System Optimization
Analyze production data and identify opportunities to optimize automation and control strategies.
Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, quality, and safety.
Contribute to projects that modernize and standardize automation systems across production lines.
Programming & Configuration
Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems, primarily Allen-Bradley platforms.
Configure and maintain VFDs, SCADA systems, and motor control systems.
Ensure system integration aligns with company standards, cybersecurity policies, and operational requirements.
Preventive Maintenance & Documentation
Execute preventive maintenance programs to prevent unplanned equipment failures.
Maintain accurate documentation for all maintenance activities, modifications, and performance reports.
Support audits and reporting with detailed technical insights and system data.
Leadership & Training
Provide training and mentorship to operators, technicians, and electricians on control systems.
Promote safety, knowledge sharing, and adherence to maintenance best practices.
🎓 Education & Experience
Required
✅ Minimum 5 years of experience in automation, controls, or electrical maintenance within manufacturing.
✅ Strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs (programming, troubleshooting, maintenance).
✅ Solid understanding of HMI, SCADA, VFDs, and industrial networks.
✅ Experience with high-speed packaging or food processing environments.
✅ Proven ability to analyze and solve complex control system problems.
Preferred
⭐ Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Technology, or related field.
⭐ Familiarity with SAP – PM, work orders, and asset management.
⭐ Experience using Putty and Cisco Network Switches.
⭐ Knowledge of basic electronics and electrical theory.
⭐ Strong communication skills and ability to train others effectively.
💡 Core Competencies
Analytical problem-solver with a proactive mindset.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Effective communicator across technical and non-technical teams.
Capable of leading initiatives with minimal supervision.
Safety-focused and committed to continuous improvement.
⚙️ Physical & Work Requirements
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, climb steps, and work at heights using ladders or lifts.
Work in environments with varying temperatures.
Comfortable working second/split shift: 7 PM – 3 AM, Monday to Friday.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
💵 Base Salary: $83,800 – $115,225 (commensurate with experience)
🎯 Bonus: Performance-based incentive program
💎 Benefits:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Life and disability insurance
Retirement savings plans
Paid vacation, holidays, and leave programs
Educational and wellness support initiatives
🧩 Candidate Snapshot
Experience: 5+ years in automation and controls engineering
Industry: Food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or high-speed manufacturing
Key Skills: Allen-Bradley PLCs | SCADA | HMIs | VFDs | Troubleshooting | SAP PM
Shift: 7 PM – 3 AM (on-site)
Travel: None
🚀 Ready to power up innovation?
Join a world-class manufacturer that values technical excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Lead automation excellence on cutting-edge production lines that shape the future of snacking.