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 ControlLogix 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 ControlLogix; Allen‑Bradley drives and servo controllers; Beckhoff PLC platforms; vision systems; FactoryTalk View and AssetCentre; 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: $104,900.00 – $152,150.00.
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.