Job Title: Automation and Instrumentation Engineer
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 (Depending on Experience)
Job Description:
The Automation & Instrumentation (A&I) Engineer is responsible for rolling mill automation, troubleshooting major failures, software backup, research, development, improvement, and testing of electrical/electronic components, equipment, and systems. This role works closely with production and maintenance personnel, as well as management, to ensure continuous operation and improvement of equipment and processes. The A&I Engineer reports to the Maintenance General Foreman.
Primary Responsibilities:
Lead initiatives to improve HMI based on operational needs.
Enhance automation stability and address system delays.
Identify and implement opportunities for increased throughput and improved instrumentation reliability.
Develop and optimize alarm reporting for operators and maintenance teams.
Collect, analyze, and report asset performance while implementing efficiency improvements.
Provide recommendations for major equipment modifications, renovations, and replacements.
Support planning and scheduling processes for maintenance downtime and outages.
Participate in failure analysis for maintenance and operational issues.
Assist in the development and execution of annual action planning.
Requirements:
Education: BS in Electronics, Networking, Automation, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent work experience.
Experience: 5 years of relevant experience, with preference for steel industry background.
Strong knowledge of AC/DC controls and motors.
Experience programming PLCs in a manufacturing setting.
Solid understanding of computer programming and software development.
Ability to troubleshoot equipment problems and perform complex system tests.
Proficiency in MS Office, SAP, IBA, and CAD.
Willingness to work in both office and field settings.
Ability to translate operator requests into actionable automation tasks.
Desired Skills:
Advanced programming experience with: GE Innovation Series Controllers, Toshiba NV Controllers, RX3i Controllers, GE Genius Block I/O Networks, IBA Analytical Tools, Siemens S7/TIA
Commissioning systems expertise.
Knowledge of A/C motor tuning and high/medium voltage GE & ABB drives.
Familiarity with networking, including Cisco switching/router configuration.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with operators, maintenance, and leadership teams.
Subject to a pre-employment drug test and/or background check.
