Sr Controls Technician

Richardson International; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Richardson International is looking for a skilled Automation Technician in Winchester, Virginia. The role involves troubleshooting automation and control issues, performing preventive maintenance, and collaborating on automation improvements.

Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation, knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLCs, and strong communication skills. An Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology is required. This position offers opportunities for leadership and training within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls.
• Strong knowledge of control panel design and troubleshooting.
• Hands-on experience with VFDs and HMIs.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation issues impacting production.
• Lead engineering updates and modifications for production lines.
• Train operators and technicians on automation systems.

Skills

Automation troubleshooting

Control systems

Electrical schematics interpretation

Leadership and training

Education

Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology

Tools

Allen‑Bradley PLCs

SCADA systems

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Duties and Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues that impact production, quality, and safety.
• Independently perform advanced troubleshooting of automation, instrumentation, and control systems for automated food processing, robotic, and material transfer systems.
• Lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production lines.
• Design, implement, and recommend automation solutions for existing equipment and new production line projects.
• Perform scheduled and condition-based preventive maintenance on automation and control systems.
• Document completed work in the CMMS through maintenance work orders; create and prioritize follow-up work as needed.
• Research, recommend, and implement automation improvements to enhance equipment reliability and uptime.
• Plan, lead, and execute automation preventive maintenance initiatives to minimize unplanned downtime.
• Apply creative problem-solving and root cause analysis to identify systemic automation issues and implement long-term solutions.
• Train, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and procedures, particularly for packaging and high-speed equipment.
• Lead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installations.
• Collaborate with peers and cross-functional partners to share technical expertise and standardize automation practices.
• Conduct obsolescence assessments of control systems; identify high-risk components and develop upgrade and replacement strategies.
• Recommend automation spare parts and manage critical automation inventory.
• Perform additional instrumentation and electrical duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Required

• Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment (food or high-speed packaging preferred).
• Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshooting.
• Extensive experience with Allen‑Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and HMIs.
• Hands‑on experience with SCADA systems.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levels.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics.
• Demonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainer within assigned plant areas or machine centers.
• Strong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principles.
• Familiarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to endure daily walking, standing, crouching, lifting (in excess of 60 lbs), twisting, climbing, and reaching.
• Ability to work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environments.
• Ability to work in confined or crowded spaces for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, crawl, and climb ladders for extended durations.
• Ability to stand and walk for 6+ hours per shift.
• Ability to reach and grasp for 6+ hours per shift.
• Job Families for Job Profiles.