Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Gravity IT Resources; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Gravity IT Resources seeks an experienced Electrical Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support automation and control systems for power distribution equipment. You will apply PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and system integration to support production operations and customer-site installations.

The role focuses on safe, dependable, and high-performing control solutions for switchgear and related industrial equipment, with travel for commissioning and site support as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related discipline (equivalent practical experience considered).
• Seven or more years of experience designing and supporting industrial automation or control systems.
• Experience with switchgear, switchboards, and power distribution equipment.
• Advanced proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Experience developing and supporting HMI and SCADA applications.
• Working knowledge of EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus or similar industrial protocols.
• Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Strong analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage assignments independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to travel for commissioning, startup, and field support.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement industrial control systems for switchgear, switchboards, and related electrical equipment
• Develop, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC programs using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms
• Create, configure, and maintain HMI and SCADA applications
• Lead system integration, functional testing, validation, commissioning, and startup activities
• Produce and maintain electrical schematics, control panel layouts, bills of material, and technical documentation
• Diagnose control-system failures and implement solutions that improve reliability and reduce downtime
• Partner with electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, operations, and field-service teams throughout the project lifecycle
• Confirm designs and installations comply with applicable safety requirements, electrical codes, and industry standards
• Provide technical guidance and training to operations and maintenance personnel
• Support continuous improvement efforts involving controls, equipment performance, and manufacturing processes
• Travel to customer or project locations as needed for commissioning, troubleshooting, and startup support

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

EtherNet/IP Modbus Profibus

Electrical schematics

Analytical problem solving

Independent work

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Controls Engineering

7+ years of experience designing and supporting industrial automation or control systems

Job description

Gravity IT Resources seeks an experienced Electrical Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support automation and control systems for power distribution equipment. You will apply PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and system integration to support production operations and customer-site installations.

The role focuses on safe, dependable, and high-performing control solutions for switchgear and related industrial equipment, with travel for commissioning and site support as needed.