Industrial Electrical Systems Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Job Type: 6-Month Contract-to-Hire
Starting Pay: $39.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience)
Overtime: Not available

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Electrical Systems Engineer to support the design, implementation, testing, and ongoing improvement of electrical and control systems used in overhead lifting and material handling equipment.

This role is fully onsite and requires a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, controls design, and industrial equipment. The successful candidate will work on both new equipment projects and modernization efforts while ensuring systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable industry standards.

Core Responsibilities

Electrical Design & Engineering

Design electrical and control systems for overhead lifting equipment, including bridge cranes, gantry cranes, monorails, and workstation crane systems.
Create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD software.
Select and specify components including variable frequency drives (VFDs), conductor bars, festoon systems, limit switches, relays, motor protection devices, and safety components.
Perform electrical calculations, power distribution analysis, and motion control design for hoist, trolley, bridge, and lifting applications.
Ensure engineering designs comply with applicable standards including CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 requirements.

System Startup & Commissioning

Support installation activities for new systems and retrofit projects.
Configure and test VFDs, HMIs, soft starters, relays, and associated control equipment.
Conduct system verification, functional testing, and performance validation.
Assist field personnel during commissioning and startup activities.

Troubleshooting & Technical Support

Diagnose and resolve issues involving motors, control panels, communication networks, limit devices, and automation systems.
Provide technical support during equipment failures and system interruptions.
Assist with modernization projects and implementation of long-term reliability improvements.

Safety & Documentation

Verify compliance with safety codes, engineering standards, and operational requirements.
Participate in risk assessments and safety evaluations.
Maintain accurate engineering documentation, drawings, and revision records.
Document modifications, upgrades, and corrective actions.

Team Collaboration

Work closely with project managers, engineers, technicians, and operations personnel.
Provide technical guidance to maintenance teams and equipment operators.
Support initiatives focused on improving equipment performance, reliability, and operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered.

3–7 years of experience involving overhead crane systems, industrial controls, electrical design, installation, or maintenance.

Strong understanding of:

Overhead crane classifications and applications
Hoist, trolley, and bridge motion control systems
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
Soft starters and motor protection equipment
Ability to create, read, and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
Familiarity with conductor bar systems, festoon systems, pendant controls, radio remote controls, and collision avoidance systems.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting custom-engineered lifting equipment or modernization projects.

Knowledge of crane automation technologies, sway control systems, and load monitoring equipment.

Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.

Ability to work safely in industrial environments and elevated work areas when required.

Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Work Environment

Full-time onsite position within an industrial manufacturing environment.

Occasional travel to project locations and customer facilities may be required.

Exposure to active production areas, industrial equipment, and field installation environments.

Why Join Us?

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to complex industrial equipment projects that directly impact operational safety, reliability, and performance. The successful candidate will play a key role in the development, improvement, and long-term success of critical material handling systems.