Industrial Automation Engineer – Material Handling Systems

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Employment Type: 6-Month Contract-to-Hire

• Compensation: Starting at $39.00 per hour, with higher pay available based on experience
• Overtime: Not available
• Work Arrangement: Fully onsite

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to support the design, integration, and improvement of control systems used in overhead cranes and material handling equipment. This role is responsible for developing automation solutions, supporting system commissioning, troubleshooting controls-related issues, and helping improve the reliability and performance of crane systems.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in PLC programming, industrial controls, motor control systems, and equipment commissioning within a manufacturing or heavy industrial environment.

Primary Responsibilities

Control System Engineering

• Design and develop electrical control solutions for overhead cranes and material handling equipment.
• Create and modify PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and motion control logic.
• Develop electrical schematics, wiring documentation, and control panel layouts.
• Select and integrate automation components including VFDs, sensors, relays, and safety devices.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable industry standards and safety requirements.

Installation & Commissioning

• Support and lead startup activities for new and upgraded control systems.
• Configure PLCs, VFDs, communication networks, and associated automation equipment.
• Conduct system testing, validation, troubleshooting, and performance verification.
• Optimize control system operation to improve reliability and efficiency.

Technical Support & Troubleshooting

• Investigate and resolve complex electrical and controls-related issues.
• Provide technical assistance to maintenance teams, field service personnel, and project teams.
• Support modernization projects, system upgrades, and retrofit initiatives.
• Analyze recurring equipment issues and recommend long-term corrective actions.

Project Collaboration

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

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of controls engineering experience in industrial or heavy equipment environments.
• 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 and interpret electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or similar networks.
• Understanding of crane motion systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge functions.
• Familiarity with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with crane automation technologies, anti-sway controls, or load monitoring systems.
• Background supporting system integration and commissioning projects.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in manufacturing and industrial environments, including elevated work areas when required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple disciplines.

Work Environment

• Full-time onsite position in an industrial manufacturing setting.
• Occasional travel to customer locations, project sites, or field installations may be required.
• Exposure to active production environments and industrial equipment.