Process Automation Reliability Engineer — Manufacturing

Altria USA; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 105,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) in Richmond, VA, seeks a senior control systems expert to lead PLC/machine controls initiatives and drive reliability improvements across manufacturing lines.

You will diagnose, troubleshoot, and optimize controls performance while coordinating with Manufacturing and Processing operations. The role requires hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Beckhoff PLCs, vision systems, and data trending tools, with a strong focus on uptime and scalable

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in an engineering field.
• 6–8 years of manufacturing experience with deep PLC/machine controls troubleshooting.
• Hands-on with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Allen-Bradley drives/servo controllers, Beckhoff PLC platforms, vision systems, FactoryTalk View and AssetCentre, and barcode readers.

Responsibilities

• Provide second-tier technical support, quickly diagnosing and resolving equipment and system issues across the factory.
• Lead reliability efforts using root cause analysis, predictive maintenance, and failure prevention to maximize uptime.
• Evaluate PLC-controlled equipment health with data trending tools; turn insights into measurable performance gains.
• Develop and implement control system improvements that meet product specs and align with business demand.
• Continuously enhance methods, processes, documentation, systems, and equipment through structured problem‑solving.
• Support installation and commissioning of new equipment and contribute to large, technically complex projects.

Skills

PLC/machine controls

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

Beckhoff PLC platforms

Vision systems

FactoryTalk View

AssetCentre

Barcode readers

Data trending

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Beckhoff PLC platforms

FactoryTalk View

AssetCentre

Barcode readers

Vision systems integration

Job description

Turn complex problems into reliable productionDo you enjoy unraveling controls challenges and elevating system performance? At U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) in Richmond, VA, you will be the senior technical resource that keeps our manufacturing and processing operations moving — while helping launch new equipment and capabilities.Imagine thisOn Monday, a servo axis on a custom pack line starts drifting. You parse trend data, adjust parameters, and prevent a repeat failure with a predictive strategy. Wednesday, you integrate a vision system and barcode reader into an existing ControlLogix cell and update FactoryTalk View screens. By Friday, you’re coordinating a cross‑functional upgrade that boosts process capability for an upcoming product run.What you will doProvide second‑tier technical support, quickly diagnosing and resolving equipment and system issues across the factory.Lead reliability efforts using root cause analysis, predictive maintenance, and failure prevention to maximize uptime.Evaluate PLC‑controlled equipment health with data trending tools; turn insights into measurable performance gains.Develop and implement control system improvements that meet product specs and align with business demand.Continuously enhance methods, processes, documentation, systems, and equipment through structured problem‑solving.Support installation and commissioning of new equipment and contribute to large, technically complex projects.What makes you successful hereUndergraduate degree in an engineering field.6–8 years of manufacturing experience with deep PLC/machine controls troubleshooting.Hands‑on with Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix, Allen‑Bradley drives/servo controllers, Beckhoff PLC platforms, vision systems, FactoryTalk View and AssetCentre, and barcode readers (strongly preferred).Comfort in a fast‑paced environment; clear communicator who leads by influence.Willing to provide technical support during normal and off‑business hours, including weekends/holidays, to meet operational needs.Location and collaborationBased in the Richmond area, you’ll work hand‑in‑hand with Manufacturing and Processing operations and partner closely with Maintenance and Engineering teams.Compensation and benefitsWe recognize that people power our success and invest accordingly. Salary is based on experience, knowledge, and qualifications. Range: $104,900.00 – $152,150.00.Start with 15 days PTO, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and a 37.5‑hour workweek.Annual merit increases and a performance bonus program.401(k) match from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing with a company contribution of 13%–17% of base salary each year.Support for your goals: student loan repayment assistance, conference attendance, and funds for certifications.Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.Paid parental and bonding leave for life’s milestones.Wellness programs for whole‑person well‑being.Paid volunteer days and a culture dedicated to making a difference.At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.Legal noticeThis position is not eligible for sponsorship.