Principal Controls Engineer

Position: Principal Controls Engineer I
This job is with Altria, an inclusive employer and a member of my Gwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly.

Together We Innovate. Together We Change.
Are you looking for an opportunity to apply your controls engineering expertise in a fast‑paced, highly automated manufacturing environment?  We are seeking a  Principal Controls Engineer I  to join  Philip Morris USA’s Richmond Manufacturing Center , supporting Utilities and Facilities operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.

In this role, you will lead the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of advanced control systems to ensure safe, reliable, and high‑performance operation of critical manufacturing infrastructure.

What You Will Be Doing
Provide technical support for Boilers, Chillers, Air Compressors, Air Washers, Vacuum Pumps, and related utilities equipment.
Lead development, integration, and support of automation platforms including Rockwell, Modicon, Delta

V, and Aveva InTouch.
Develop and deploy system improvements to enhance capability, reliability, and alignment with product and business requirements.
Develop and execute capital and expense project scopes.
Oversee installation, commissioning, and lifecycle maintenance of control systems.
Manage vendor relationships and ensure quality of contracted work.
Execute projects and support maintenance activities utilizing internal union labor and external resources, including adherence to union notification requirements.
Support reliability initiatives through root cause analysis, predictive maintenance, and failure‑prevention strategies.
Apply structured problem‑solving techniques to improve processes, systems, documentation, and equipment.
Mentor automation engineers, technicians, operations, and maintenance personnel on controls and technical concepts.
Ensure all systems and work practices meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

What We Want You to Have
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field.
Typically, 8–10+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls.
Proven expertise with Rockwell Automation, Modicon PLCs, Delta

V DCS, and Aveva InTouch HMI systems.
Strong understanding of process instrumentation, P&IDs, loop documentation, and industrial control methodologies.
Demonstrated ability to lead reactive and proactive controls support in high‑pressure or time‑critical environments including emergency off hours accountability.
Excellent leadership, communication, and project‑management skills.
Experience working in manufacturing environments, preferably regulated industries.

At Philip Morris USA, we recognize that our people are the reason we achieve our business goals. We believe in developing the leadership potential of our employees by providing them with opportunities for training, development, and advancement.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $  - $.

Why You’ll Love Building Your Career at Altria

At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported — both at work and in life. Here’s what you’ll find here:
Work where life works for you —  with flexible and remote options that fit your world, not the other way around.
Own your time  — start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully
A place where you belong  — where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real
Get recognized for your work  – annual merit increases and performance bonus
A future you can count on  — 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary
Help with your goals  — get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends
Support for what matters most  — comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
Celebrating your milestones  — paid parental and bonding leave for life’s biggest moments.
Wellness that goes beyond work  — programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life
A culture that gives back  — paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference

At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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