Master Electrician at Boar's Head Brand in Petersburg, VA

Work with Controls Engineers and Technicians to provide technical support across industrial electrical systems, controls, and automation to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role is responsible for end-to-end troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair, and optimization of electrical and automated systems, reducing downtime and improving overall equipment performance. Acts as subject matter expert, supporting and helping train maintenance teams, improving system reliability, and reducing reliance on external resources.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Electrical (Industrial Electrician Scope)

Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial electrical systems including: Power distribution systems (low and medium voltage) Motor control circuits, starters, contactors, relays Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) Interpret and work from electrical schematics, ladder logic, and wiring diagrams Perform panel wiring, device installation, and circuit modifications Troubleshoot electrical faults including, Power loss, Ground faults, Motor failures Ensure compliance with NFPA70E, OSHA, LOTO, and arc flash standards

Controls & Automation

Work with Controls Engineering and Controls Techs to diagnose and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems (Allen Bradley: ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Omron, etc.) Support and modify HMI systems (FactoryTalk, PanelView, etc.) Troubleshoot and maintain, Analog and digital I/O systems (4–20mA, 0–10V, etc.), Sensors, instrumentation, and control devices Support servo systems, robotics, and automated equipment Maintain and help manage PLC program backups and version control

System-Level Troubleshooting & Optimization

Perform root cause analysis for complex equipment failures across electrical and controls systems Diagnose issues across mechanical, electrical, and controls interactions Identify and implement performance improvements and reliability solutions Conduct functional testing to validate equipment performance and system integrity

Functional Support

Provide technical guidance and training to the maintenance team. Support maintenance and operations teams during critical downtime events. Partner with Engineering, OEMs, and vendors to resolve complex system issues Lead or support automation and controls improvement projects

Continuous Improvement

Identify opportunities to improve Equipment reliability, Maintenance practices, and system performance. Support the standardization of controls and electrical practices across facilities

Education and Experience: 3 – 5 years’ experience in industrial controls or equivalent trade education. Preferred Meat Processing and Equipment knowledge preferred. Strong, committed, and unquestioned record of safe work practices

Technical Skills (Preferred) PLCs: Allen Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, etc.) HMIs: FactoryTalk, PanelView Drives: PowerFlex or equivalent Communications: Ethernet/IP, Modbus, TCP/IP Industrial instrumentation and sensors Robotics and servo systems (preferred)

Additional Responsibilities: Conduct equipment audits to ensure excellent maintenance. Support the Facilities Department goals. Support QA, R&D, and Process Systems departments, as needed. Work with OEM vendors to continually improve equipment and process operations

Language Skills: Must have strong technical oral and written communication skills. Must be able to effectively communicate with all levels of personnel. Bilingual skills a benefit

Mathematical Skills: Excellent math and mechanical aptitude required

Reasoning Ability: Strong critical thinking skills required

Certifications / Safety Knowledge of NFPA70E (Arc Flash), OSHA standards, LOTO procedures

Physical Demands: Must be physically able to access all areas of facility (perform audits and assist with issues in all facility areas)

Work Environment: Cold, damp environment maintained at 360 – 400 F