System Engineer

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.; Cloverdale (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Westport Axle Co. is seeking a Controls Engineer to support Volvo manufacturing operations in Cloverdale, VA. You will manage PLC/automation systems, troubleshoot, and drive uptime and efficiency across production lines.

The role requires hands-on experience with PLC platforms, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and electrical schematics, with strong analytical and communication skills to collaborate across Operations and Maintenance teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• 1–5 years of experience in controls, automation, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in manufacturing, logistics, or distribution.
• Knowledge of PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and project management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work independently and across departments.
• Flexibility to support off-shift projects.

Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs for automated systems and controls equipment.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring equipment failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automation and controls systems.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, contractors, and customer engineering teams on technical projects.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company standards, and applicable safety regulations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens PLCs

HMIs

VFDs

Electrical schematics

Industrial networks

Job description

Westport Axle Co., a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc., is a leading transportation and third-party logistics provider offering a broad range of services throughout the supply chain. Leveraging advanced technology and experienced leadership, we deliver customized logistics solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and service for our customers.

This position is based in Cloverdale, VA, supporting Volvo's manufacturing operations. The facility manages production support, warehousing, inventory management, and material flow activities that are critical to maintaining customer production schedules and operational performance.

Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs for automated systems and controls equipment.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring equipment failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automation and controls systems.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, contractors, and customer engineering teams on technical projects.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company standards, and applicable safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• 1-5 years of experience in controls, automation, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in a manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Knowledge of PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar systems.
• Experience working with HMIs, VFDs, sensors, motors, barcode systems, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and project management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating across multiple departments.
• Flexibility to support off-shift projects, maintenance activities, and operational needs as required.