Project Manager / DCS Programmer

Overview Hampton Roads Automation (HRA) is seeking an experienced Project Manager / DCS Programmer to lead and execute industrial automation projects from bid phase through commissioning and closeout. This role blends hands-on Emerson DCS programming with project management, coordination, and estimating support for water, wastewater, and industrial automation projects across Virginia and surrounding regions.

If you thrive at the intersection of technical execution and project leadership, this role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on critical infrastructure systems.

Duties Project Management & Coordination:

Serve as Project Manager for automation and controls projects from kickoff to closeout. Manage scope, schedule, budget, labor tracking, and change orders. Coordinate internal engineering, field technicians, vendors, subcontractors, and clients. Ensure compliance with company standards, safety policies, and applicable codes

DCS Programming & Technical Execution:

Develop, configure, modify, and troubleshoot Emerson DCS applications. Implement control strategies, logic, graphics, alarms, and system integrations. Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), commissioning, and startup support. Diagnose and resolve complex control system issues. Support system upgrades, expansions, and migrations

Estimating & Pre-Bid Support:

Support bid estimating for automation and controls scopes. Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits. Review drawings, specifications, P&IDs, and control narratives. Identify scope gaps, risks, and technical requirements

Client & Stakeholder Engagement:

Act as a technical point of contact for clients, engineers, and vendors. Communicate project status, risks, and technical decisions clearly and professionally. Support long-term client relationships through quality delivery and responsiveness. Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience) 5+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or DCS programming Demonstrated experience managing technical automation projects Technical Skills Strong experience with Emerson DCS systems (configuration, programming, troubleshooting) Working knowledge of PLCs, SCADA, HMI systems, and industrial instrumentation Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, control narratives, loop diagrams, and electrical drawings Familiarity with water/wastewater or industrial process environments preferred Professional Skills Strong organizational and time management skills Excellent written and verbal communication Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

Up to $143,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Fuel card Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Opportunities for advancement Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Waverly, VA 23891