Controls Engineer

hrone; Cloverdale (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Westport Axle Co., a Universal Logistics Holdings subsidiary, seeks an Automation Engineer to support PLC/HMI systems and automate material handling at the Cloverdale, VA facility. You will troubleshoot controls, optimize PLC logic, and partner with Operations to improve uptime and throughput.

The role requires a Bachelor's in a related field and 1–5 years' experience with PLCs and automation in manufacturing or logistics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• 1–5 years of experience in controls, automation, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in manufacturing, logistics, or distribution.

Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs for automated systems and controls equipment.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring equipment failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automation and controls systems.

Skills

PLC troubleshooting

Automation systems

HMI/SCADA

Electrical schematics

Project management

Communication

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Controls/Mechatronics/Automation

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens PLC

HMI software

Job description

Are you looking to join a dynamic team that provides its people with the tools to be successfull and opportunities to grow?

Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains.

Universal has immediate career opportunities in your area.

Westport Axle Co., a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc., is a leading transportation and third-party logistics provider offering a broad range of services throughout the supply chain. Leveraging advanced technology and experienced leadership, we deliver customized logistics solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and service for our customers.

This position is based in Cloverdale, VA , supporting Volvo's manufacturing operations . The facility manages production support, warehousing, inventory management, and material flow activities that are critical to maintaining customer production schedules and operational performance.

Position Summary

Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs for automated systems and controls equipment.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring equipment failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automation and controls systems.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, contractors, and customer engineering teams on technical projects.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company standards, and applicable safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• 1-5 years of experience in controls, automation, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in a manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Knowledge of PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar systems.
• Experience working with HMIs, VFDs, sensors, motors, barcode systems, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and project management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating across multiple departments.
• Flexibility to support off-shift projects, maintenance activities, and operational needs as required.