Marine Hydraulic & Crane Field Technician

Join PALFINGER and help move the world. For more than nine decades, our people have pushed lifting technology forward. As part of our Portsmouth, VA service team, you’ll combine hands-on expertise with problem-solving to keep lifesaving and lifting equipment mission ready.

Location: 705 Mt. Vernon Ave. Portsmouth, VA 23707
Reports to: Virginia Service Manager

A day in this role

Your morning might start dockside on a vessel where you commission a davit and winch package after a 5-year service. By midday, you’re diagnosing a hydraulic fault on a PALFINGER crane using schematics and a multimeter. You wrap up by documenting your work clearly, updating the Service Coordinator on job status, and lending a hand to the shop team as needed.

Core responsibilities

• Inspect, test, commission, and complete annual and 5-year services for lifeboats, davit/winch systems, and PALFINGER cranes.
• Troubleshoot, adjust, repair, and overhaul hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems on-site and in the field.
• Interpret manuals, technical drawings, and blueprints to resolve issues efficiently.
• Produce accurate service reports and all required job documentation.
• Keep the Service Coordinator/Manager informed on progress and support assembly or production work when needed.

What you bring

• Hands-on experience with hydraulic and mechanical/electromechanical systems and a solid technical foundation.
• Background in the marine or offshore sector (preferred).
• Strong theoretical understanding of cranes, hydraulics, and electrical systems common to marine and fishing operations.
• Willingness to travel and unwavering commitment to safe work practices aligned with HSE guidelines.
• Clear, professional communication in English, both written and verbal.

Proficiencies

• Pneumatics Experience
• Electrical / Electronic Systems
• Pneumatics Troubleshooting
• Hydraulic Systems & Components
• Mechanical Systems & Component Repair
• Crane & Lifting Equipment Systems
• Electrical Schematic Reading

What we offer

• Competitive compensation
• 401(k) with Company match
• Medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and short- and long-term disability (depending upon state)
• Paid Company holidays and paid Vacation
• Continuous learning and career growth opportunities

This job posting describes the general nature of work performed by employees within this classification. The information on this posting is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of all responsibilities required of employees assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.

PALFINGER is not utilizing any external recruiting agencies for this opportunity.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled