Crane Controls & Electrical Systems Engineer

Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Shift: Day Shift | Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Pay rate: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)
Position Overview
An industrial engineering team is seeking an experienced Controls & Electrical Engineer to support the design, integration, and startup of automated lifting and material handling systems used in industrial environments.
This role combines electrical system design with hands-on commissioning and troubleshooting support. The ideal candidate will have prior experience with motion control systems, industrial automation, and heavy equipment applications.
This is a fully onsite opportunity with direct involvement in engineering projects, field implementation, and operational support.

Industrial Controls Engineer – Material Handling Systems
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Shift: Day Shift | Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Pay rate: Starting at $39+/hour (DOE)
Position Overview
An industrial engineering team is seeking an experienced Controls & Electrical Engineer to support the design, integration, and startup of automated lifting and material handling systems used in industrial environments.
This role combines electrical system design with hands-on commissioning and troubleshooting support. The ideal candidate will have prior experience with motion control systems, industrial automation, and heavy equipment applications.
This is a fully onsite opportunity with direct involvement in engineering projects, field implementation, and operational support.

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