Crane Controls Engineer

Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer 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 Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer to support the design, programming, and commissioning of electrical control systems for material handling equipment and industrial automation applications. This onsite role involves developing new control solutions, enhancing existing systems, and providing technical expertise during installation, startup, and long-term equipment support. The ideal candidate has experience with PLC programming, industrial electrical controls, automation systems, and manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities System Design & Engineering

Design electrical control systems for overhead cranes and material handling equipment.

Develop and modify PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and crane motion control logic.

Create and review electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.

Select and integrate VFDs, sensors, relays, safety devices, and other electrical components.

Ensure designs comply with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), ASME B30, and other applicable standards.

Installation & Startup

Support and lead the installation, startup, and commissioning of crane control systems.

Configure, test, and troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.

Perform system validation, operational testing, and performance optimization.

Technical Support

Troubleshoot complex electrical and automation issues on crane systems.

Provide technical assistance to maintenance personnel and field service teams.

Support equipment upgrades, retrofit projects, and control system improvements.

Team Collaboration

Work closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, technicians, and production teams.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.

Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.

Minimum 5 years of controls engineering experience, preferably with overhead cranes or heavy industrial equipment.

Strong experience with:

PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar)

HMI/SCADA systems

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

Motor control systems

Ability to design, read, and troubleshoot electrical schematics and control systems.

Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP and Modbus.

Knowledge of crane motion systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge controls.

Familiarity with CMAA, NEC, and ASME standards.

Preferred Qualifications Experience with crane automation, anti-sway technology, or load monitoring systems.

Background in industrial system integration and equipment commissioning.

Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work in manufacturing environments and at heights when required.

Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Work Environment Full-time onsite position in an industrial manufacturing facility.

Occasional travel to customer locations or project sites may be required.