Crane Controls Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Starting Pay: From $39.00 per hour (Higher pay available based on experience) 
Overtime: Not Available

We are seeking a Crane Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, integration, and troubleshooting of electrical control systems for overhead cranes and material handling equipment. This onsite role is ideal for an engineer with experience in industrial automation who enjoys working on both new installations and modernization projects while ensuring safe and reliable system performance.

• Design electrical control systems for overhead cranes and material handling equipment.
• Develop and modify PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and crane motion control logic.
• Create and review electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.
• Select and integrate VFDs, sensors, relays, safety devices, and other electrical components.
• Ensure designs comply with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), ASME B30, and other applicable standards.

• Support and lead the installation, startup, and commissioning of crane control systems.
• Configure, test, and troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.
• Perform system validation, operational testing, and performance optimization.

• Troubleshoot complex electrical and automation issues on crane systems.
• Provide technical assistance to maintenance personnel and field service teams.
• Support equipment upgrades, retrofit projects, and control system improvements.

• Work closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, technicians, and production teams.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on reliability, efficiency, and safety.