An Electrical Crane Engineer combines electrical engineering with hands-on crane technology to keep overhead lifting systems safe and reliable. Based in Ashland, VA, this role focuses on designing, developing, installing, and maintaining the electrical and control architectures for bridge cranes, gantry systems, and related equipment at Virginia Crane and Hoist. The position is office-based with no option for remote work, requiring close collaboration with mechanical engineers, project managers, and crane technicians.
Job Overview
Virginia Crane is seeking a full-time Electrical Crane Engineer located in Ashland, VA. The role is office-based with no remote work option.
Responsibilities
- Design electrical systems for overhead cranes including bridge, gantry, monorail, and workstation crane configurations.
- Create detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD tools.
- Select and specify VFDs, festoon systems, conductor bars, limit switches, and safety devices.
- Apply industry standards and specifications such as CMAA 70 and CMAA 74, NFPA 70 NEC, and ASME B30 series.
- Perform load calculations, power sizing, and control logic design for crane motion including hoist, trolley, bridge, and BTH devices.
- Support field technicians during installation and commissioning of new systems and major retrofits.
- Configure and test VFDs, soft starters, HMI interfaces, and relay systems.
- Conduct functional testing and performance validation to ensure conformance with design specs.
- Diagnose electrical issues in crane control systems such as hoist motors, control panels, limit devices, and communication networks.
- Assist with breakdowns and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Ensure electrical designs and installations comply with safety codes and crane standards.
- Conduct risk assessments and safety inspections.
- Maintain accurate documentation for all electrical work and modifications.
- Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, and crane technicians.
- Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance teams and crane operators.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance crane reliability and operational efficiency.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 3 to 7 years of experience in overhead crane design, installation, or maintenance.
- Knowledge of CMAA classifications and related crane standards.
- Experience with motor control systems for hoist, trolley, and bridge motions.
- Familiarity with VFDs, soft starters, and motor protection systems.
- Ability to read, create, and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
- Experience with conductor bar systems, festoon systems, pendant controls, radio remote controls, and collision-avoidance systems.
Technologies
- CAD tools
- VFDs
- Soft starters
- HMI interfaces
- Pendant controls
- Radio remote controls
- Collision-avoidance systems
- Conductor bar systems
- Festoon systems
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Working Conditions
On-site work at a manufacturing facility with occasional travel to customer sites or project locations.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with custom crane design or modernization and retrofit projects.
- Knowledge of load monitoring, sway control, and crane automation.
- Strong analytical and problem solving abilities.
- Ability to work at heights and in industrial environments.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Role Impact
The Electrical Crane Engineer ensures safe, efficient, and compliant operation of overhead crane systems that support critical lifting operations. The role contributes to reduced downtime, improved reliability, and ongoing adherence to industry standards.
