Automtion Engineer - On-Site

Dorsetts Inc; Vinton (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Flexible work options (on-site, remote

Education reimbursement

Job summary

Dorsett Controls is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join our team in the Roanoke, VA area. You will design, develop, and support automation solutions that enhance system performance and reliability, collaborating with project managers, panel builders, and technicians on-site.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of hands-on controls/automation experience, strong PLC/SCADA skills, and travel willingness for local/regional support.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in controls or automation engineering.
• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, automation technology, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Proficient in programming PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider) and SCADA/HMI development.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and SCADA-based control systems for industrial and municipal applications.
• Develop and implement HMI/SCADA interfaces using Ignition, Wonderware, FactoryTalk, or VTScada.
• Collaborate with project managers, panel builders, and field technicians to deliver seamless integration and project execution.
• Perform on-site commissioning, testing, and startup of control systems.
• Analyze and improve existing systems for better performance, efficiency, and safety.
• Provide technical support and documentation to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Participate in project planning, estimation, and specification development.
• Ensure all work complies with industry standards, company guidelines, and safety regulations.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI development

Industrial protocols

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field

Tools

Ignition

Wonderware

FactoryTalk

VTScada

Job description

Automation Engineer - Controls Engineering Expertise Needed (On-site)

Location: Vinton, VA

Work Location: On-Site
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Project Manager

FLSA Status: Salary Exempt

Who We Are

Dorsett Controls is a leading provider of innovative automation solutions, specializing in custom control systems and services across a diverse range of industries, including HVAC controls and water/wastewater SCADA systems. With a commitment to precision, reliability, and cutting-edge technology, we help organizations optimize operations and enhance efficiency. At Dorsett Controls, we are dedicated to delighting our customers, creating innovative experiences, and pursuing excellence. Our team is focused on delivering outstanding results, and we are seeking motivated individuals to join us in shaping the future of the control systems industry.

What We Need

We are currently seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join our team in the Roanoke VA area. This role is ideal for a skilled professional with a strong background in controls engineering who is passionate about solving complex problems and driving results.

Because automation is at the heart of what we do, as an Automation Engineer, you will play a key role in designing, developing, and supporting automation solutions that directly impact system performance, reliability, and scalability for our customers. Your work will not only contribute to project success it will shape the way our clients experience automation and control.

What You’ll Do

• 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.
• Collaborate with project managers, panel builders, and field technicians to deliver seamless integration and project execution.
• Perform on-site commissioning, testing, and startup of control systems.
• Analyze and improve existing systems for better performance, efficiency, and safety.
• Provide technical support and documentation to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Participate in project planning, estimation, and specification development.
• Ensure all work complies with industry standards, company guidelines, and safety regulations.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, automation technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in controls or automation engineering.
• Proficient in programming PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, etc.) and developing SCADA/HMI systems.
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, etc.).
• 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.

What Sets You Apart

• Experience working in water/wastewater, manufacturing, or energy sectors.
• Familiarity with UL 508A panel design and control panel fabrication.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to continuous learning and keeping current with emerging technologies.

  What We Offer:

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, EAP, FSA, HSA, LTD/STD insurance and wellness benefits.
  • Career development: Opportunities for advancement and education reimbursement.
  • Flexible work schedule: We offer on-site, remote and hybrid options, based on role and organizational needs.

  Travel Requirements

  • Willingness to travel up to 20% including overnight stays, to support project execution, site visits, and team collaboration across multiple locations.

  At Dorsett Controls, we combine technical excellence with a people-first approach. You'll be part of a team that values innovation, integrity, and growth. We invest in our people and empower them to lead, learn, and contribute meaningfully to impactful projects across the region.

  We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to advance within a company that values your expertise and vision.

  Dorsett Controls is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.