EngineerJobs.io
← Back to all jobs

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.

Similar Jobs