Director of Automation & Controls (PLC/HMI)

Location: Waynesboro, VA, USA; full-time onsite position. Travel required approximately 10–20% for client meetings, commissioning, and support.

Salary: Dependent on experience.

Company

Provides custom-engineered industrial refrigeration and process cooling systems using natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO₂, with in-house engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and aftermarket support.

What you will do

• Lead, assign work to, evaluate, and mentor the PLC engineering team.
• Oversee programming and deployment of PLC/HMI-based control systems.
• Develop sequences of operation according to client and project specifications.
• Coordinate engineering schedules with field and shop requirements to meet deadlines.
• Present controls upgrades and facility expansion solutions and develop long-term client relationships.
• Troubleshoot electrical and control system issues onsite and remotely while supporting commissioning and project execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, or Electronics Engineering.
• 5+ years of controls engineering experience, including PLC/HMI systems.
• Strong team leadership, mentorship, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in construction or manufacturing environments.
• Ability to remain seated or standing for extended periods and occasionally lift or carry up to 25 pounds.

Nice to have

• Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Industrial refrigeration or HVAC experience.
• Advanced PLC programming and SCADA knowledge.
• Industrial project management experience.
• Familiarity with natural refrigerants, sustainability practices, or automation and project management certifications.

Culture & Benefits

• Employee-focused benefits package supporting financial security, health, and work–life balance.
• 401(k) match up to 15% and student loan repayment match up to 15%.
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered, plus dental and vision options.
• Company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, AD&D, and supplemental insurance options.
• Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave; weekly pay.
• Professional development, training, apprenticeship programs, career advancement opportunities, and employee discounts.