Crane Controls & Electrical Systems Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PMEmployment Type: Contract-to-Hire (6 months)Compensation: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)About The RoleA 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 DoingSystem Design & Technical DevelopmentCreate electrical designs for overhead lifting equipment including bridge, gantry, monorail, and workstation cranesDevelop schematics, panel layouts, and wiring documentation using CAD platformsSpecify components such as drives (VFDs), festoon systems, conductor bars, limit switches, and safety controlsPerform calculations related to load handling, motor sizing, and system performanceApply industry standards including CMAA 70/74, NEC (NFPA 70), and ASME B30Startup & Field ImplementationSupport installation efforts and assist with commissioning of new systems and retrofitsConfigure and test drives, control interfaces (HMI), relays, and associated componentsValidate system functionality and ensure alignment with design intentTroubleshooting & System SupportInvestigate and resolve electrical and control-related issues across crane systemsAssist with maintenance troubleshooting, including motors, panels, and communication systemsSupport upgrades and modernization of existing equipmentSafety, Standards & DocumentationEnsure all work aligns with applicable safety codes and engineering standardsParticipate in safety reviews and system assessmentsMaintain accurate documentation for designs, changes, and field updatesTeam CollaborationPartner with mechanical engineers, project managers, and technicians to execute projectsProvide technical input and guidance to operations and maintenance teamsContribute to initiatives aimed at improving system uptime and efficiencyWhat 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 functionsVFDs, soft starters, and protection systemsAbility to interpret and develop electrical drawings and technical documentationFamiliarity with conductor bar systems, festooning, pendant controls, radio remotes, and anti-collision systemsPreferred ExperienceExposure to crane modernization or custom system designKnowledge of advanced features such as load monitoring and sway controlStrong troubleshooting and analytical capabilitiesComfortable working in industrial environments, including elevated areasEffective communication and teamwork skillsWork EnvironmentOnsite role within a manufacturing/industrial facilityOccasional travel to support projects or customer locationsImpact of the RoleThis 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.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.