Senior Industrial Automation Controls Architect

Shape the heartbeat of modern manufacturing

Picture starting your day on the floor at U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) in Richmond, VA. A packaging cell throws an intermittent fault. You dive into Control Logix trends, pinpoint a signal conditioning issue, and deploy a refined control strategy. By afternoon, you’re coaching maintenance on predictive approaches, and later, you’re validating a new servo-driven module for an upcoming product platform.

That blend of hands-on problem solving, system design, and leadership is what this role is all about.

The role

As a senior controls leader embedded in the Richmond area, you’ll partner closely with Manufacturing and Processing operations, as well as Maintenance and Engineering teams. You’ll provide second-tier technical support, resolve factory system and equipment issues, and bring expertise to the installation and commissioning of new equipment.

What you will accomplish

Troubleshoot and optimize process and packing equipment, including customized machinery and new product platform technologies.

Drive reliability initiatives through root cause analysis, predictive maintenance, and failure prevention strategies to ensure dependable operations.

Analyze process data and equipment performance for PLC-controlled assets, leveraging trending and analytics tools to assess system health.

Design and implement control system enhancements that elevate process capability and align with product specifications and business demand.

Apply structured problem-solving to improve methods, processes, documentation, systems, and equipment.

Contribute to major cross-functional programs requiring expert technical coordination.

What you bring

Undergraduate degree in an engineering field.
6–8+ years in manufacturing with proven factory controls support and hands-on troubleshooting of PLCs/machine controls.

Strongly preferred experience:
Allen‑Bradley Control Logix;
Allen‑Bradley drives and servo controllers;
Beckhoff PLC platforms; vision systems;
Factory Talk View and Asset Centre; barcode readers.

Comfort thriving in a fast-paced manufacturing setting; excellent communication and leadership skills.

Willingness to provide technical support during normal and off-business hours (including weekends/holidays) to meet operational needs.

Compensation The starting salary is based on, but not limited to, experience, knowledge, and qualifications. Salary range: $ – $.Why you’ll love building your career at Altria Own your time — 15 days of paid time off to start, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and a 37.5‑hour workweek.

Belonging and impact — your ideas are welcomed, your growth encouraged, and your work truly matters.

Recognition — annual merit increases and a performance bonus program.

Future-ready finances — 401(k) match from day one, plus Deferred Profit Sharing with an annual company contribution of 13%–17% of base salary.

Goal support — student loan repayment assistance, conference attendance, and professional development stipends.

Comprehensive coverage — medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family.

Life moments — paid parental and bonding leave.

Whole‑person wellness — programs that support you at every stage of life.

Give back — paid volunteer days and a culture committed to community impact.

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

Legal This position is not eligible for sponsorship.