Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems

Location: Ashland, VA
Shift: First Shift
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (Full-Time, Onsite)
Compensation: Starting at $39/hour+, depending on experience

Position Summary

An industrial automation environment is seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, integration, and enhancement of automated systems used in overhead lifting and material handling operations. This role involves both new system development and upgrades to existing equipment, with a focus on performance, safety, and regulatory compliance.

This is a hands-on role requiring strong PLC programming, system integration, and troubleshooting experience within heavy industrial or manufacturing settings.

### Primary Responsibilities

System Design & Development

Develop electrical control systems for overhead cranes and related equipment
Create and modify PLC programs, operator interfaces (HMI), and control logic
Produce electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts
Select and integrate system components including VFDs, sensors, relays, and safety devices
Ensure all designs meet applicable industry standards such as CMAA, NEC (NFPA 70), and ASME B30

Installation & Startup Support

Assist with system installation, commissioning, and startup activities
Configure PLCs, drives, and communication networks
Perform testing, system validation, and performance tuning

Troubleshooting & Field Support

Diagnose and resolve complex control system and electrical issues
Provide technical assistance to maintenance and field service teams
Support system upgrades, retrofits, and modernization projects

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

Work cross-functionally with engineering, project, and technical teams
Share knowledge and provide guidance to less experienced team members
Contribute to process improvements aimed at increasing system reliability and efficiency

### Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)

At least 5 years of experience in controls engineering, preferably in crane systems or heavy industrial environments

Strong expertise in:

PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms)
HMI/SCADA systems
Variable frequency drives (VFDs) and motor control systems
Ability to read and create electrical schematics and control system designs
Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP or Modbus
Understanding of crane motion systems including hoist, trolley, and bridge operations
Familiarity with CMAA, NEC, and ASME standards

### Preferred Background

Experience with advanced crane automation features (e.g., anti-sway, load monitoring)

Involvement in system commissioning and industrial integration projects

Strong diagnostic and problem-solving abilities

Comfortable working in industrial settings, including elevated work areas when required

Effective communication and teamwork skills

### Work Environment

Fully onsite role within an industrial/manufacturing facility

Occasional travel may be required to support projects or customer sites

Why This Opportunity

Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems

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