Job Description

Cranemasters is a leading provider of specialized engineering and railroad services, delivering innovative solutions for heavy-lift operations and rail-connected machinery. We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team and help design and optimize cranes, attachments, and related equipment tailored for the rail industry.

This role requires a deep understanding of the unique challenges of railway construction, including heavy lifts, track maintenance, and complex logistics. You will collaborate with a skilled engineering team to create designs that prioritize safety, efficiency, durability, and compliance with industry standards. Key considerations include load capacity, stability, reliability, ease of maintenance, and maneuverability along railway tracks.

Responsibilities include structural analysis, material and component selection, and ensuring equipment performance and safety throughout its lifecycle.

Work Schedule

This position follows a 9/80 work schedule and is primarily based in Chesterfield, Virginia . When supporting the Aftermarket Group, approximately 80% of your time will be at our Richmond location , with one dedicated day per week at Chesterfield headquarters.

As a first responder to the railroad industry, all Cranemasters employees are considered on call for emergency support. Engineering management may request support outside normal hours to meet urgent operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development

• Design: Develop new crane structures, overhaul existing designs, and create hardware for enhanced functionality. Apply abstract thinking, visualize 3D concepts from 2D drawings, and perform reverse engineering when needed.
• Testing: Validate designs through calculations, modeling, and prototyping. Conduct field testing to simulate real-world conditions, identify issues, and ensure compliance before full implementation.

Aftermarket

• Rebuild Projects: Lead inspections, refurbishments, and rebuilds of high-tonnage cranes and related machinery. Plan and execute repairs and upgrades to meet safety and industry standards.
• Technical Support: Provide technical assistance to customers and internal teams, troubleshoot issues remotely or on-site, and ensure optimal equipment performance.

Production

• Catalog Design Updates: Implement iterative design improvements for standard equipment models. Coordinate releases with management and manufacturing teams based on production schedules.
• Compliance & Delivery: Ensure all builds meet customer specifications and regulatory standards. Complete documentation, testing, and final handoff of equipment.

General Responsibilities

• Problem Solving: Apply critical thinking and collaborate across teams to resolve technical challenges.
• Ownership of Design: Oversee designs through manufacturing and testing phases, adapting quickly to changes.
• Product Knowledge: Maintain expertise in Cranemasters’ equipment and stay current with industry best practices and safety regulations.
• Customer Engagement: Communicate effectively with customers, providing updates and addressing inquiries.
• Quality Assurance: Work with project managers and foremen to uphold quality standards during rebuilds and production.
• Communication: Maintain open dialogue with engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams, providing clear rationale for design decisions.
• Resilience: Respond effectively to dynamic, high-pressure situations during emergency derailment support.
• Documentation: Follow revision control and release guidelines; record calculations, procedures, and results accurately.
• Time Management: Prioritize tasks to meet manufacturing timelines and urgent delivery requirements.

Required Travel

• Approximately 5–10%

Benefits & Perks

• Annual Bonus Program: Eligible to participate in our discretionary corporate bonus program based on company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Effective the first of the month following 60 days of employment.
• Technology Support: A company-provided laptop to keep you connected and productive.
• 9/80 Work Schedule: 10‑hour shift schedule with every other Friday off, supporting work–life balance.
• Paid Time Off: Accrual begins your first week at a rate equivalent to 80 hours per year; PTO available after 90 days of service.

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