Automation Engineer - On-Site
Job Description
The on-site Automation Engineer role supports the Roanoke VA area, based in Vinton, VA. In this position, you will design, program, troubleshoot, and commission PLC and SCADA control systems, including HMI/SCADA development and client or internal technical support.
Location and Work Setup
- Work location: On-Site
- City/State: Vinton, VA
- Department: Engineering
- Reports to: Project Manager
- FLSA status: Salary Exempt
Compensation
Salary: USD 100,000 to 110,000 per year
Responsibilities
- Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and SCADA-based control systems for industrial and municipal applications.
- Develop and implement HMI/SCADA interfaces using platforms such as Ignition, Wonderware, FactoryTalk, or VTScada.
- Coordinate with project managers, panel builders, and field technicians to support integration and overall project execution.
- Conduct on-site commissioning, testing, and startup activities for control systems.
- Review existing systems and recommend improvements to increase performance, efficiency, and safety.
- Provide technical support and documentation for clients and internal stakeholders.
- Participate in project planning, estimation, and specification development.
- Maintain compliance with industry standards, company guidelines, and safety regulations.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, automation technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Experience: Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in controls or automation engineering.
- Proficiency programming PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, etc.) and developing SCADA/HMI systems.
- Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP and Modbus.
- Experience with process control systems, instrumentation, and field integration.
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Willingness to travel locally and regionally for on-site support and system startups.
- Valid driver’s license required.
Technology and Tools
- Core systems: PLC, SCADA, HMI
- SCADA/HMI platforms: Ignition, Wonderware, FactoryTalk, VTScada
- PLC platforms: Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider
- Communication protocols: Ethernet/IP, Modbus
- Additional reference: UL 508A
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- EAP, FSA, HSA, and LTD/STD insurance
- Wellness benefits
- Opportunities for advancement and education reimbursement
Work Travel Requirements
- Willingness to travel up to 20%, including overnight stays
- Travel is intended to support project execution, site visits, and collaboration across multiple locations
Additional Information
- Flexible work schedule: On-site, remote, and hybrid options based on role and organizational needs.
Job Context within the Engineering Team
This is an on-site controls-focused engineering role within the Engineering department. The position emphasizes system design, programming, troubleshooting, on-site commissioning, and ongoing technical support, while ensuring compliance with relevant standards, company guidelines, and safety regulations.