Lead Industrial Automation Engineer

Accelera Staffing; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Accelera Staffing is seeking a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead the design, optimization, and maintenance of complex control systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment. You will act as the technical authority, driving improvements and ensuring long-term reliability of our automated production infrastructure.

The role requires leading projects, coordinating cross-functional teams, and applying proactive maintenance strategies to minimize downtime while upholding rigorous

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent required.
• 5+ years' hands-on experience with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Expertise in PLC/HMI platforms (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, FactoryTalk View).
• Ability to interpret P&IDs and loop sheets.
• Experience in fast-paced, agile manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement PLC software and HMI interfaces.
• Analyze process data to identify bottlenecks and improve performance.
• Lead engineering projects, coordinate cross-functional teams and external resources.
• Apply proactive reliability strategies, including root cause analysis and predictive maintenance.
• Mentor maintenance and operations staff to foster continuous improvement.
• Ensure control system changes meet engineering standards and safety protocols.

Skills

Process control systems

Instrumentation

Industrial hardware

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

FactoryTalk View

P&IDs

Loop sheets

Agile manufacturing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Canary

Modicon 984

Concept

Unity

Job description

As a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer, you will spearhead the design, optimization, and maintenance of complex control systems within a high-volume manufacturing environment. You will serve as a technical authority, driving process improvements and ensuring the long-term reliability of our automated production infrastructure.

About the Role

As a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer, you will spearhead the design, optimization, and maintenance of complex control systems within a high-volume manufacturing environment. You will serve as a technical authority, driving process improvements and ensuring the long-term reliability of our automated production infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement robust PLC software and HMI interfaces to optimize production efficiency.
• Conduct deep-dive analysis of process data to identify bottlenecks and enhance overall system performance.
• Lead the execution of engineering projects, coordinating cross-functional teams and external resources to meet strict operational deadlines.
• Execute proactive reliability strategies, including root cause analysis and predictive maintenance, to minimize unplanned downtime.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to maintenance and operations staff to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Ensure all control system modifications adhere to rigorous engineering standards and safety protocols.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience with process control systems, instrumentation, and industrial hardware.
• Proven expertise in developing and troubleshooting PLC/HMI platforms such as Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix and FactoryTalk View.
• Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, including the ability to interpret P&IDs and loop sheets.
• Demonstrated success in fast‑paced, agile manufacturing environments.

Preferred Skills

• Proficiency with process historians and data analytics tools like Canary.
• Experience with Modicon 984, Concept, or Unity platforms.
• Background in managing projects within unionized labor environments.
• Strong problem‑solving capabilities regarding complex digital networks and control architecture.