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

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.

• 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

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

• 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

• 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

This role provides the opportunity to work directly with complex automation systems supporting heavy-duty equipment. It is ideal for engineers who enjoy hands-on design, troubleshooting, and improving system performance in a real-world industrial setting.