Job Description

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.

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