Electrical and Controls Engineering Manager

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Waynesboro (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan matching up to

Medical, dental & vision insurance

Paid time off & holidays

Short/long-term disability insurance

Career development programs

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. in Virginia is seeking an Electrical and Controls Engineering Manager to lead the PLC engineering team, design control sequences, and ensure project execution aligns with client specifications.

You will oversee programming, testing, on-site commissioning, and collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and service teams to optimize performance. Travel up to 10–20% is required as projects demand.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, or Electronics Engineering required.
• Minimum 5+ years in controls engineering with PLC/HMI experience.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and client-facing communication skills.
• Experience in construction or manufacturing environments.
• Ability to collaborate with internal teams and clients effectively.
• Preferred PE license and knowledge of natural refrigerants is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the PLC engineering team, including task assignments and evaluations.
• Present customized control solutions for upgrades and facility expansions.
• Coordinate with internal departments and executive leadership on execution strategies.
• Develop sequences of operation per client and project specifications.
• Oversee programming, testing, commissioning, and on-site support.
• Travel approximately 10–20% for client meetings and commissioning.
• Foster long-term client relationships to drive new opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Client communication

Team mentorship

Electrical engineering knowledge

PLC/HMI systems

Construction/manufacturing experience

Education

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

Tools

PLC/HMI programming

SCADA systems

Job description

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of industrial refrigeration and process cooling solutions, delivering custom engineered systems utilizing natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO₂. Through a fully integrated approach encompassing engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, nationwide service, and advanced aftermarket solutions, Innovative supports customers across the food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceutical, industrial manufacturing, and mission-critical infrastructure markets throughout North America and around the world.

Unlike traditional engineering firms, contractors, or equipment suppliers, Innovative performs engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and ongoing customer support entirely in-house. This integrated model provides employees with the opportunity to support projects throughout the complete lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacturing, installation, startup, operation, optimization, modernization, and long-term system support.

Job Role

The Electrical and Controls Engineering Manager oversees the Controls Engineering team responsible for programming and deploying PLC/HMI-based systems. This leadership role ensures projects are executed effectively and aligned with strategic goals. The position is instrumental in both technical execution and business development for controls-related services.

Key Duties

• 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.

Requirements

• 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 (seated or standing) for extended periods
• Occasionally may need to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds (e.g., office supplies, small equipment)

Preferences

• Professional Engineering (PE) license
• Industrial refrigeration or HVAC experience
• Advanced PLC programming and SCADA systems knowledge
• Proven industrial project management background
• Familiarity with natural refrigerants and sustainability practices
• Certifications in automation or project management

Benefits

In addition to a competitive base salary, we provide a comprehensive and employee-focused benefits package designed to support your financial security, health, and work-life balance:

• Generous retirement plan with a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) match up to 15%
• 401(k) student loan repayment match up to 15%
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered by the company
• Dental and vision insurance options
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• Weekly pay
• Competitive paid vacation and holiday time
• Paid sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career advancement, professional development, training, and apprenticeship programs
• Access to employee discounts on cell phone plans, vehicle rentals, and other eligible services

If you are driven to succeed and want to be part of a rapidly growing company at the forefront of the industry.