Automation & Controls Leader — PLC/HMI & Projects

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Waynesboro (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Dental & Vision

Medical insurance

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Employee discounts

Career development

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is seeking an Automation and Controls Integration Manager to lead the PLC engineering team and oversee controls projects from conception through commissioning.

You will drive technical execution, mentor engineers, and develop client-ready solutions for upgrades and facility expansions. This leadership role emphasizes collaboration with internal groups and executive leadership, with travel expected 10–20% for client meetings, commissioning, and support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, or Electronics Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering, including PLC/HMI systems.
• Strong team leadership and mentorship capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with clients and internal teams.
• Experience in construction or manufacturing environments.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift or carry items up to 25 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the PLC engineering team, including task assignments, performance evaluations, and mentorship.
• Present customized solutions for controls upgrades and facility expansions to drive new business opportunities.
• Foster long-term client relationships to support ongoing and future projects.
• Coordinate with internal departments and executive leadership to align on project execution strategies.
• Schedule engineering tasks based on field and shop requirements to meet critical deadlines.
• Develop and implement sequences of operation per client and project specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and control system issues on-site and remotely.
• Travel as needed (approximately 10-20%) for client meetings, commissioning, and support.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentorship

Client relations

Construction/manufacturing

Project management

Travel coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, or Electronics Engineering

Tools

PLC/HMI systems

SCADA

Job description

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is seeking an Automation and Controls Integration Manager to lead the PLC engineering team and oversee controls projects from conception through commissioning.

You will drive technical execution, mentor engineers, and develop client-ready solutions for upgrades and facility expansions. This leadership role emphasizes collaboration with internal groups and executive leadership, with travel expected 10–20% for client meetings, commissioning, and support.