Material Handling Systems Design Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (Potential Conversion After 6 Months)
Compensation: Starting at $39.00/hour and higher based on experience and technical qualifications

We are seeking a skilled engineering professional to support the design, integration, and long-term reliability of electrically powered material-handling systems. This position combines engineering design, equipment commissioning, technical problem-solving, and field support responsibilities for overhead lifting equipment and related automation systems.

The successful candidate will contribute to both new equipment development and modernization efforts while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of industrial lifting solutions.

• Design electrical systems for overhead lifting applications including bridge cranes, gantry systems, monorails, and workstation lifting equipment
• Produce electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control-panel layouts, and engineering documentation using CAD software
• Specify and integrate components such as variable frequency drives, conductor systems, relays, sensors, limit switches, safety devices, and control hardware
• Perform engineering calculations related to motor performance, load requirements, equipment sizing, and system operation
• Incorporate applicable industry standards and regulatory requirements into design solutions

• Assist with startup and commissioning activities for newly installed and upgraded systems
• Configure and test VFDs, operator interfaces, relays, and associated electrical controls
• Verify system operation through functional testing and performance validation
• Support field implementation activities to ensure equipment aligns with design intent

• Investigate and resolve electrical and controls-related issues impacting equipment performance
• Support maintenance personnel and technical teams with diagnostics and corrective actions
• Participate in retrofit initiatives and modernization projects involving existing lifting systems
• Recommend improvements that enhance reliability, uptime, and operational effectiveness

• Ensure designs and field modifications comply with electrical codes, industry standards, and internal engineering practices
• Participate in system reviews, safety assessments, inspections, and technical evaluations
• Maintain organized drawing revisions, engineering records, and project documentation
• Assist with maintaining accurate configuration and equipment history records

• Coordinate closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, technicians, and operations personnel
• Provide technical guidance to maintenance and production teams regarding equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Support initiatives focused on equipment performance, process improvement, and reliability enhancement

This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys balancing design responsibilities with real-world equipment support. Successful candidates will contribute to reliable system performance, effective project execution, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement of material-handling operations through innovative engineering solutions.