Job Description

Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Shift: Day Shift | Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Pay rate: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)

An industrial engineering team is seeking an experienced Controls & Electrical Engineer to support the design, integration, and startup of automated lifting and material handling systems used in industrial environments.

This role combines electrical system design with hands-on commissioning and troubleshooting support. The ideal candidate will have prior experience with motion control systems, industrial automation, and heavy equipment applications.

This is a fully onsite opportunity with direct involvement in engineering projects, field implementation, and operational support.

Key Responsibilities

Electrical & Controls Engineering

• Design electrical systems for industrial lifting and transport equipment
• Develop wiring diagrams, electrical schematics, and control panel layouts using CAD platforms
• Select and specify electrical components including drives, motor controls, conductor systems, safety devices, and communication hardware
• Perform calculations related to power distribution, motion control, and equipment operation
• Ensure designs comply with applicable electrical and safety standards

Commissioning & Startup Support

• Assist with installation, commissioning, and system startup activities
• Configure and test VFDs, HMIs, soft starters, and related control devices
• Conduct functional testing and verify proper equipment operation
• Support modernization and retrofit projects for existing systems

Troubleshooting & Technical Support

• Diagnose electrical and controls-related issues involving motors, panels, drives, and communication systems
• Provide technical assistance during equipment failures and operational interruptions
• Work alongside maintenance and operations teams to implement corrective actions
• Support ongoing system reliability improvements

Safety & Documentation

• Maintain compliance with industrial safety standards and engineering best practices
• Participate in inspections, system reviews, and risk assessments
• Document system modifications, updates, and engineering changes accurately

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with engineering teams, field technicians, and project personnel
• Provide technical guidance and training support when needed
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment performance and uptime

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
• 3–7 years of experience in industrial electrical systems, motion controls, or lifting equipment applications
• Experience with:
  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
  • Motor control systems
  • Industrial automation and control circuitry
  • Electrical schematics and technical drawings
  • Familiarity with industrial communication systems and safety components
  • Ability to troubleshoot electrical and control system issues in an industrial setting

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting retrofit or modernization projects
• Knowledge of automated material handling equipment or heavy industrial machinery
• Understanding of advanced motion control or load-monitoring systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable working in manufacturing or industrial environments, including elevated areas when required