Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Automation & Controls Engineer – Crane Systems Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite) Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Starting Pay: From $39.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience) Overtime: Not available Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support electrical control systems used in overhead cranes and industrial material handling equipment. This position is responsible for developing new control solutions, improving existing systems, and supporting equipment installation and startup. The ideal candidate has a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, and electrical controls, along with experience troubleshooting complex systems in a manufacturing or heavy industrial environment.

Responsibilities Control System Design

• Design electrical control systems for overhead cranes and material handling equipment.
• Develop and modify PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and control logic.
• Create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.
• Select and integrate components including VFDs, relays, sensors, and safety devices.
• Ensure designs comply with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.

Installation & Commissioning

• Support and lead installation, startup, and commissioning of control systems.
• Configure, test, and troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.
• Perform system validation and optimize equipment performance before production.

Technical Support

• Diagnose electrical and automation issues affecting crane operation.
• Assist maintenance and field service teams with complex troubleshooting.
• Support modernization projects, equipment upgrades, and control system retrofits.

Team Collaboration

• Partner with engineers, technicians, and project managers throughout project execution.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members when needed.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts to increase equipment reliability and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• At least 5 years of controls engineering experience, preferably with overhead cranes or other heavy industrial equipment.
• Hands-on experience with:
• PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
• HMI and SCADA systems
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
• Motor control systems
• Ability to design, review, and interpret electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or similar.
• Strong understanding of crane motion systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge controls.
• Knowledge of CMAA, NEC, and ASME industry standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with crane automation technologies, anti-sway controls, or load monitoring systems.
• Background in industrial system integration and equipment commissioning.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Comfortable working in manufacturing or industrial environments, including elevated work areas when required.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Work Environment

• Full-time onsite position in an industrial manufacturing setting.
• Occasional travel to customer or project locations may be required.