Electrical Crane Engineer / Electrical Controls Designer

Qualdoc•Ashland, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Qualdoc is seeking an Electrical Crane Engineer / Electrical Controls Designer for a full-time, salaried position based in Ashland, VA. This is a fully onsite role with no remote work option. The Electrical Crane Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining electrical and control systems for overhead cranes and related lifting equipment. This role requires strong technical expertise in crane systems, electrical design, and automation to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
3–7 years of experience in overhead crane design, installation, or maintenance
Strong understanding of: Overhead crane classifications (CMAA)
Strong understanding of: Motor control systems for hoist, trolley, and bridge motions
Strong understanding of: VFDs, soft starters, and motor protection systems
Ability to read, create, and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation
Familiarity with conductor bar systems, festoon systems, pendant controls, radio remote controls, and collision-avoidance systems

Nice To Haves

Experience with custom crane design or modernization/retrofit projects
Knowledge of load monitoring systems, sway control, and crane automation
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work at heights and in industrial environments
Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Responsibilities

Design electrical systems for overhead cranes, including bridge cranes, gantry cranes, monorails, and workstation cranes
Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using CAD tools
Select and specify components such as VFDs, festoon systems, conductor bars, limit switches, and safety devices
Apply relevant industry standards, including: CMAA 70 / CMAA 74, NFPA 70 (NEC), ASME B30 series
Perform load calculations, power sizing, and control logic design for crane motion (hoist, trolley, bridge, and below-the-hook devices)
Support field technicians during installation and commissioning of new crane systems and major retrofits
Configure and test VFDs, soft starters, HMI interfaces, and relays
Conduct functional testing and validate system performance against design specifications
Diagnose and resolve electrical issues in crane control systems, including motors, panels, limit devices, and communication networks
Support breakdown response and implement corrective actions
Ensure all designs and installations meet applicable safety codes and industry standards
Conduct risk assessments and safety inspections
Maintain accurate documentation of electrical work and system modifications
Work closely with mechanical engineers, project managers, and crane technicians
Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance teams and operators
Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance reliability and efficiency