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

Impact of the Role

Crane Controls & Electrical Systems Engineer

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