Crane Controls & Electrical Systems Engineer

Crane Controls & Electrical Systems Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (6 months)
Compensation: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)

About the Role

A growing industrial operation is seeking an Electrical Engineer with experience in overhead crane systems to support the design and implementation of control and power solutions. This role combines hands-on engineering with field support, focusing on reliability, safety, and performance of lifting equipment.

This position is fully onsite and involves close collaboration with engineering, field service, and operations teams.

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What You’ll Be Doing

System Design & Technical Development

• Create electrical designs for overhead lifting equipment including bridge, gantry, monorail, and workstation cranes
• Develop schematics, panel layouts, and wiring documentation using CAD platforms
• Specify components such as drives (VFDs), festoon systems, conductor bars, limit switches, and safety controls
• Perform calculations related to load handling, motor sizing, and system performance
• Apply industry standards including CMAA 70/74, NEC (NFPA 70), and ASME B30

Startup & Field Implementation

• Support installation efforts and assist with commissioning of new systems and retrofits
• Configure and test drives, control interfaces (HMI), relays, and associated components
• Validate system functionality and ensure alignment with design intent

Troubleshooting & System Support

• Investigate and resolve electrical and control-related issues across crane systems
• Assist with maintenance troubleshooting, including motors, panels, and communication systems
• Support upgrades and modernization of existing equipment

Safety, Standards & Documentation

• Ensure all work aligns with applicable safety codes and engineering standards
• Participate in safety reviews and system assessments
• Maintain accurate documentation for designs, changes, and field updates

Team Collaboration

• Partner with mechanical engineers, project managers, and technicians to execute projects
• Provide technical input and guidance to operations and maintenance teams
• Contribute to initiatives aimed at improving system uptime and efficiency

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
• 3–7 years of experience working with overhead crane systems (design, installation, or maintenance)
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Crane classifications and applications (CMAA)
  • Motor control systems for hoist, trolley, and bridge functions
  • VFDs, soft starters, and protection systems
• Ability to interpret and develop electrical drawings and technical documentation
• Familiarity with conductor bar systems, festooning, pendant controls, radio remotes, and anti-collision systems

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to crane modernization or custom system design
• Knowledge of advanced features such as load monitoring and sway control
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical capabilities
• Comfortable working in industrial environments, including elevated areas
• Effective communication and teamwork skills

Work Environment

• Onsite role within a manufacturing/industrial facility
• Occasional travel to support projects or customer locations

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Impact of the Role

This position plays a key role in maintaining safe and efficient crane operations. The engineer will directly contribute to minimizing downtime, improving system performance, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.