Industrial Controls Engineer - Overhead Lifting Systems

Industrial Controls Engineer – Overhead Lifting Systems Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite) Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (6-Month Conversion Opportunity) Compensation: Starting at $39+/hour (based on experience) Position Overview A fast-paced industrial manufacturing environment is seeking an experienced Industrial Controls Engineer to support the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of overhead lifting and material-handling systems. This role combines electrical engineering design work with onsite technical support, helping ensure equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. The position works closely with engineering, operations, maintenance, and field service teams on both new installations and modernization projects. \n Primary Responsibilities Electrical Design & System Engineering Develop electrical designs for overhead material-handling equipment including bridge cranes, gantry cranes, monorail systems, and workstation lifting systems Create electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and wiring documentation using CAD software Select and specify components including VFDs, conductor bars, festoon systems, limit switches, relays, and safety devices Perform engineering calculations related to motor sizing, load handling, and system performance requirements Apply industry standards and codes including CMAA 70/74, NEC (NFPA 70), and ASME B30 Startup, Commissioning & Field Support Support installation and commissioning activities for new equipment and retrofit projects Configure and test variable frequency drives, HMI interfaces, relays, and associated control systems Verify system functionality and ensure installations align with engineering specifications Troubleshooting & Equipment Support Diagnose and resolve electrical and controls-related issues affecting crane and lifting systems Assist with troubleshooting motors, control panels, communication systems, and automated equipment Support modernization initiatives and upgrades to existing crane systems Safety, Compliance & Documentation Ensure engineering work complies with applicable safety regulations, electrical codes, and company standards Participate in safety reviews, inspections, and system evaluations Maintain organized engineering documentation, revisions, and field update records Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with project managers, technicians, mechanical engineers, and operations personnel Provide technical guidance to maintenance and production teams Support initiatives focused on improving equipment uptime, reliability, and operational efficiency Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field (or equivalent hands-on experience) 3–7 years of experience supporting overhead crane systems through design, installation, maintenance, or controls engineering Strong knowledge of: Crane classifications and applications (CMAA standards) Motor control systems for hoist, trolley, and bridge motion VFDs, soft starters, and electrical protection systems Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical drawings and technical documentation Familiarity with conductor bar systems, festoon systems, pendant controls, radio remote systems, and anti-collision technology Preferred Experience Experience supporting crane modernization or custom lifting system design projects Familiarity with advanced crane technologies such as sway control or load monitoring systems Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving abilities Comfortable working within industrial facilities and elevated work areas Effective communication and teamwork skills in cross-functional environments Work Environment Fully onsite role within an industrial/manufacturing facility Occasional travel may be required to support project installations or customer locations \n Role Impact This position plays a critical role in supporting safe, reliable, and efficient crane operations. The engineer will contribute directly to reducing downtime, improving equipment performance, and maintaining compliance with operational and industry standards.