Industrial Automation & Controls Technician

Location: Henrico, VA

Employment Type: Full-Time

Schedule: Day shift (approx. 5:00 AM – 3:00 PM), with flexibility to support other shifts as needed

Pay: Starts at $38.00/hour (higher based on experience)

Role Overview

We are hiring an experienced Automation & Controls Technician to support maintenance and reliability within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving automated equipment and control systems to ensure consistent production performance. This role is ideal for someone with strong PLC and electrical experience who enjoys hands-on problem solving and optimizing industrial systems.

Primary Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair automated machinery and control systems to reduce downtime
• Work directly with PLCs, HMIs, servo systems, VFDs, sensors, encoders, and vision systems
• Modify and support PLC/HMI programs using platforms such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens
• Configure and maintain industrial networks including EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and IO-Link
• Support and maintain machine safety systems for safe operation
• Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
• Assist with equipment installation, commissioning, and system improvements
• Monitor system performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability and efficiency
• Follow all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Partner with production, engineering, and quality teams to resolve technical issues
• Maintain accurate documentation for maintenance activities and system updates
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on uptime and performance

Minimum Requirements

• Associate degree or technical certification in Electronics, Controls, or related field
• 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing or industrial maintenance
• Journeyman-level electrical experience or equivalent hands-on expertise
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC and HMI systems
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, including 480V and motor controls
• Familiarity with industrial networking and automation systems
• Solid troubleshooting and analytical skills
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office or similar tools
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of industrial safety practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, or related discipline
• Experience in high-volume or regulated manufacturing environments (e.g., consumer goods, pharma, or similar)
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement practices
• Familiarity with FDA or ISO-regulated environments
• Experience with high-speed production or packaging equipment

Key Strengths

• Effective communication across technical and operations teams
• Focus on equipment reliability and production uptime
• Ability to support deadlines and production goals
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new systems and technologies

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive hourly pay starting at $38.00

• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
• Paid time off including holidays, sick leave, and personal days
• Company-paid short-term disability and life/AD&D insurance

Why Consider This Role

This opportunity offers hands-on work with advanced automation systems in a production environment where your technical expertise directly impacts efficiency and performance. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.