Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

The Engineering Automation Programmer I is tasked with supporting and maintaining a wide range of instrumentation and automation systems across various sites. The role involves performing audits, calibrations, preventive maintenance, and repairs on computer systems, microprocessor-based controls, and pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical/electronic instruments. This position requires a strong understanding of industrial automation, instrumentation, and electrical systems, along with the ability to work collaboratively across departments to ensure optimal system performance.

Responsibilities

• Install, test, repair, and calibrate recording and indicating instrumentation and associated circuitry.
• Maintain all electrical systems, components, and networks not assigned to the IT department.
• Provide expert-level troubleshooting and programming support for automation systems across the manufacturing floor.
• Assist Instrument Technicians with technical tasks and system maintenance as needed.

Essential Skills

• Automation experience.
• PLC programming expertise.
• Troubleshooting capabilities.
• HMI programming.
• Controls engineering.
• 2 years of hands-on controls experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Programming experience with PLCs, including SLC500, PLC5, ControlLogix systems, DeviceNet, ControlNet systems, Square D and Omron PLC systems.
• Proficiency in Wonderware Software (InTouch and InTrack).
• Ability to read blueprints and schematics.
• Robotics knowledge.
• Electrical expertise.
• Autocad design skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in the Food and Beverage industry.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Server security experience.

Work Environment

This position reports to the plant manager and involves working alongside Instrumentation Technicians regularly. It is an on-site role located in Suffolk, Va, with a standard 8-5 shift and 40-hour work weeks with occasional overtime. The organization offers a dynamic and values-driven workplace where employees can grow professionally while contributing to well-known consumer brands. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, empowerment, and accountability, the culture fosters innovation and continuous improvement. Team members benefit from career development opportunities, a supportive work-life balance, and perks like on-site amenities and complimentary products—all within an environment that values diversity and inclusion.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Suffolk, Virginia.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $75000.00 - $85000.00/yr.

Can provide if needed. Provide a fairly standard benefits package.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Suffolk,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actALENTaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.