Engineer, Electrical

Job Summary/Overview

The Electrical Engineer plans and designs product applications based on customer requirements and needs. The position is responsible for organizing complex components and assemblies for the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of engineered products.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support electrical and controls design for CMCO lifting products across engineered‑to‑order (ETO), new product development, and sustaining engineering efforts.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, cable assemblies, I/O lists, and bills of material (BOMs).
• Contribute to the design and integration of power distribution, motor control systems, braking systems, VFDs, sensors, limit switches, encoders, and safety circuits for lifting applications.
• Apply relevant electrical, functional safety, and EMC standards to ensure designs meet compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineering to support effective electromechanical integration, including grounding, routing, environmental protection, and serviceability considerations.
• Support evaluation and selection of supplier components (e.g., motors, drives, brakes, connectors, cable, enclosures), including participation in qualification testing.
• Participate in design reviews, DFMEAs, and hazard analyses; assist in implementing mitigation actions and resolving identified risks.
• Assist in developing and executing verification and validation plans; support prototype builds and testing activities, including functional, environmental, and compliance testing.
• Analyze test and field data to help identify root causes of electrical issues; support corrective and preventive action implementation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of industrial electrical and controls systems used in cranes and lifting equipment (power distribution, motor control, braking, safety circuits).
• Ability to perform basic electrical analyses (e.g., voltage drop, protection, thermal considerations) with guidance as needed.
• Ability to read, interpret, and create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and block diagrams.
• Applies structured problem-solving to analyze data and resolve technical issues.
• Experience supporting verification activities, interpreting test results, and assisting with corrective actions.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; able to contribute effectively in cross-functional discussions.
• Proficient with ECAD tools and PLM/PDM systems; familiarity with ERP systems preferred.
• Able to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrates effective time management and collaboration skills.
• Applies analytical thinking with attention to safety and compliance requirements.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2+ years electrical engineering experience required.
• AutoCAD and Solidworks experience required.
• Experience with electro-mechanical systems or hoists preferred.

About Columbus McKinnon:

Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of intelligent motion solutions that move the world forward and improve lives by efficiently and ergonomically moving, lifting, positioning and securing materials. Key products include hoists, crane components, precision conveyor systems, rigging tools, light rail workstations and digital power and motion control systems. We are focused on commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality provided by our superior design and engineering know-how. Columbus McKinnon is a publicly traded company that has been in business for almost 150 years - proud of our heritage, where we come from, and where we're going. As Columbus McKinnon grows globally, so does our need for driven and inspired employees. Join our winning team!

Columbus McKinnon Corporation promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other Federal or State legally-protected classes. We also value the safety of all associates and work hard to maintain a Drug Free Workplace.

Nearest Major Market: Charlotte