Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems in Ashland, Virginia at Qualdoc, LLC
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Job Description
Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Shift: Day Shift | Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Pay rate: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)
An industrial engineering team is seeking an experienced Controls & Electrical Engineer to support the design, integration, and startup of automated lifting and material handling systems used in industrial environments.
This role combines electrical system design with hands-on commissioning and troubleshooting support. The ideal candidate will have prior experience with motion control systems, industrial automation, and heavy equipment applications.
This is a fully onsite opportunity with direct involvement in engineering projects, field implementation, and operational support.
Key Responsibilities- Design electrical systems for industrial lifting and transport equipment
- Develop wiring diagrams, electrical schematics, and control panel layouts using CAD platforms
- Select and specify electrical components including drives, motor controls, conductor systems, safety devices, and communication hardware
- Perform calculations related to power distribution, motion control, and equipment operation
- Ensure designs comply with applicable electrical and safety standards
- Assist with installation, commissioning, and system startup activities
- Configure and test VFDs, HMIs, soft starters, and related control devices
- Conduct functional testing and verify proper equipment operation
- Support modernization and retrofit projects for existing systems
- Diagnose electrical and controls-related issues involving motors, panels, drives, and communication systems
- Provide technical assistance during equipment failures and operational interruptions
- Work alongside maintenance and operations teams to implement corrective actions
- Support ongoing system reliability improvements
- Maintain compliance with industrial safety standards and engineering best practices
- Participate in inspections, system reviews, and risk assessments
- Document system modifications, updates, and engineering changes accurately
- Coordinate with engineering teams, field technicians, and project personnel
- Provide technical guidance and training support when needed
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment performance and uptime
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
- 3–7 years of experience in industrial electrical systems, motion controls, or lifting equipment applications
- Experience with:
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
- Motor control systems
- Industrial automation and control circuitry
- Electrical schematics and technical drawings
- Familiarity with industrial communication systems and safety components
- Ability to troubleshoot electrical and control system issues in an industrial setting
- Experience supporting retrofit or modernization projects
- Knowledge of automated material handling equipment or heavy industrial machinery
- Understanding of advanced motion control or load-monitoring systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Comfortable working in manufacturing or industrial environments, including elevated areas when required
This role offers the opportunity to work on complex industrial systems that combine electrical engineering, automation, and hands-on field support. It’s ideal for professionals who enjoy solving technical challenges while contributing to high-impact engineering projects in a fast-paced environment.