Electrical Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems

Electrical Automation Engineer – Industrial Systems

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Job Type: 6-Month Contract-to-Hire
Starting Pay: From $39.00 per hour (Higher starting pay available based on experience)
Overtime: Not Available

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Automation Engineer to design, implement, and support electrical control systems used in overhead cranes and material handling equipment. This onsite role is responsible for developing automation solutions, improving existing control systems, and providing technical support throughout installation, startup, commissioning, and ongoing system performance.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, electrical controls, and manufacturing environments.

• 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 electrical components including VFDs, relays, sensors, and safety devices.
• Ensure all designs comply with applicable CMAA
  , NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.

• Assist with installation, startup, testing, and commissioning of electrical control systems.
• Configure and troubleshoot PLCs, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and industrial communication networks.
• Validate system operation and optimize equipment performance before production use.

• Diagnose electrical and automation issues affecting overhead crane performance.
• Support maintenance and field service personnel with advanced troubleshooting.
• Assist with equipment upgrades, modernization projects, and control system retrofits.

• Work closely with engineers, technicians, and project managers throughout project execution.
• Provide technical guidance to less experienced team members when needed.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that enhance equipment reliability, productivity, and system performance.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum 5 years of controls engineering experience, preferably involving 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 develop, review, and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ether Net/IP
  , Modbus
  , or similar networks.
• Strong understanding of crane motion control systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge operations.
• Working knowledge of CMAA
  , NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.

• Experience with crane automation technologies, anti-sway systems, or load monitoring controls.
• Background in industrial system integration, startup, and equipment commissioning.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Comfortable working in industrial manufacturing environments, including elevated work areas when required.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams.

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