Senior Crane Electrical Engineer

SSA Marine · Seattle, United States

SSA Marine is a Seattle-based global operator of marine terminals and stevedoring services, specializing in the movement and handling of cargo across major ports worldwide. As part of Carrix, the company manages container, bulk, and breakbulk operations, as well as intermodal and rail logistics that connect port activity to inland transportation networks. SSA Marine supports the efficient flow of goods across global supply chains, working with shipping lines, ports, and logistics partners to move a wide range of cargo, including containers, automobiles, and industrial materials.

The Senior Crane Electrical Engineer is responsible for the design, reliability, maintenance, and optimization of electrical and control systems for crane equipment across SSA Marine terminals. This role focuses on ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable crane operations by supporting power systems, automation, drives, and control

architectures for equipment such as STS, RTG, RMG, ASC, and MHC cranes.

The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in industrial electrical systems, electrical distribution systems, PLCs, variable frequency drives (VFDs), automation, and

troubleshooting of complex crane systems.

Salary range: $160,000 - 190,000 per year + Bonus

Location: Must be local to Seattle for this hybrid role

Relocation and housing assistance available

International Travel requirements:

• Willingness and ability to travel internationally 30%–50% of the time, subject to business needs and ongoing training.
• Must hold (or be eligible to obtain) a valid passport and meet international travel/visa requirements without restriction.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and review electrical designs for new crane installations, upgrades, and retrofits, including power distribution, control systems, and automation architecture.
• Prepare technical specifications, single-line diagrams, control schematics, and engineering documentation for crane systems.
• Support commissioning, testing, and acceptance of new crane equipment, ensuring compliance with SSA standards and operational requirements.
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of electrical, control, and automation failures to minimize downtime.
• Develop and enhance preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for electrical systems, including motors, drives, PLCs, sensors, and communication networks.
• Work closely with maintenance teams to optimize reliability and reduce lifecycle costs of crane electrical systems.
• Ensure compliance with applicable electrical codes, standards, and safety regulations (e.g., NEC, OSHA, IEC).
• Support integration of advanced technologies, including automation, remote diagnostics, condition monitoring, and energy efficiency solutions.
• Collaborate with mechanical, hydraulic, and operations teams to ensure seamless system integration and performance.
• Participate in modernization and electrification initiatives, including energy optimization and potential shore power interface considerations.
• Provide technical support for procurement, including vendor evaluation, FAT/SAT participation, and technical clarifications.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, modifications, and system performance for compliance and continuous improvement.
• Support the standardization of electrical systems and specifications across SSA Marine terminals.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and performance analyses for management review.
• Stay current with industry trends in crane electrification, automation, and digitalization.
• All other duties as assigned by management and/or supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field preferred.
• 8+ years of relevant experience in industrial electrical systems, preferably in cranes, heavy equipment, or port operations.
• Strong knowledge of PLC systems(e.g., Siemens, ABB, Schneider), HMI/SCADA, and industrial communication protocols.
• Experience with VFDs, motor control systems, and medium/low voltage power distribution.
• Understanding crane control systems and automation logic is highly desirable.
• Experience in commissioning and troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems.
• Strong operational and tactical skills with the ability to analyze system performance and implement improvements.
• Familiarity with industry standards and best practices.
• Exposure to energy efficiency, electrification, or sustainability initiatives is a plus.
• High level of energy, positive attitude, and collaborative working style.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams.

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

Work Environment:

• Willingness and ability to travel internationally 30%–50% of the time, subject to business needs and ongoing training.
• Must hold (or be eligible to obtain) a valid passport and meet international travel/visa requirements without restriction.
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor temperatures (hot and cold), extremely dusty conditions, and occasionally, conditions of high levels of noise.
• The ability to work in an environment that may be hazardous to people who are unable to see and hear fast-moving equipment.
• Must be able to work in rotating shifts, days, evenings, and nights.
• Willingness to travel to project sites will be required.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on the first day of the month following your hire date.
• 401(k) plan with automatic enrollment at 4% and a 100% vested employer match (eligible after 1 year of service and 1,000 hours worked).
• Company-funded retirement plan historically contributing 9% of eligible base salary (100% vested after 5 years).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) starts accruing up to 3 weeks of vacation in your first year
• Sick leave averaging 10 days per rolling year.
• 13 paid holidays, including 3 floating personal days.

Our Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer