Director, Automation Controls Engineering

DSJ Global; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Machine Integrator seeks a Director of Automation & Controls Engineering to oversee and grow the controls function. You will define technical direction, lead high-performing teams, and deliver sophisticated automation solutions for large-scale industrial operations.

The role balances strategic planning with hands-on problem solving and requires strong collaboration with executive stakeholders to advance business objectives and operations excellence.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in industrial automation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, Electronics Engineering or related field.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to interface with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience managing a mid to large engineering team locally.

Responsibilities

• Direct, coach, and develop a team of automation and controls engineers.
• Ensure successful execution of automation projects meeting quality, cost, and schedule.
• Partner with operations, leadership, and other engineering groups to support company-wide initiatives.
• Engage with customers and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and uncover growth opportunities.
• Act as a technical escalation point for advanced controls, electrical, and system integration issues.
• Provide oversight on system architecture, software development, and hardware selection.
• Communicate progress, performance metrics, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Education

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

Tools

PLC

HMI

SCADA

Job description

Role: Director of Automation & Controls Engineering

Company: Machine Integrator

We are seeking an accomplished automation leader to oversee and grow our controls engineering function. This role is responsible for defining technical direction, leading high-performing engineering teams, and delivering sophisticated automation solutions that support large-scale industrial operations. As a senior technical authority, you will balance strategic planning with hands‑on problem solving while partnering closely with executive stakeholders to advance business objectives and operational excellence.

This position is ideal for a leader who enjoys owning outcomes, influencing long-term technology strategy, and guiding teams through complex automation challenges in demanding industrial environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct, coach, and develop a team of automation and controls engineers
• Ensure successful execution of automation projects, meeting expectations for quality, cost, and schedule
• Partner with operations, leadership, and other engineering groups to support company-wide initiatives
• Engage with customers and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and uncover growth opportunities
• Act as a technical escalation point for advanced controls, electrical, and system integration issues
• Provide oversight on system architecture, software development, and hardware selection
• Communicate progress, performance metrics, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership

Qualifications

• Extensive experience (7+ years) in industrial automation, including PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems
• Proven leadership background and experience managing a mid to large team of direct reports locally
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interface with both technical and non-technical audiences
• Adaptability working with various industries, customers, and equipment; preferablywith an OEM or machine integrator

Preferred Experience

• Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Exposure to refrigeration systems, HVAC, or related mechanical systems
• Familiarity with energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly refrigerants
• Automation, controls, or project management certifications