Area Reliability Engineer

Sappi; Cloquet (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Sappi in Minnesota is seeking a Reliability Engineer/Supervisor to maximize performance, reliability, and life of mill assets. You will lead predictive and preventative maintenance using lubrication management, infrared thermography, vibration monitoring, NDT, and comprehensive inspection programs.

You will analyze equipment data, diagnose issues, and predict failures to reduce downtime and improve asset health.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.
• 2+ years in reliability or maintenance, industrial setting preferred.
• Leadership in implementing new technologies or maintenance methods.
• Strong data interpretation and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead predictive and preventative maintenance to ensure equipment reliability.
• Apply vibration analysis, motor spectral analysis, and other NDT methods.
• Interpret data trends to identify risks and troubleshoot issues.
• Champion reliability initiatives including RCFA, FMEA, KPI use.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, procurement, and maintenance teams.
• Coach and influence others in adopting reliability tools and processes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

NDT methods

Vibration analysis

Lubrication management

Job description

Reliability Engineer / Supervisor

Join our team as a Reliability Engineer/Supervisor, where you’ll play a critical role in maximizing the performance, reliability, and life of our mill assets. In this highly visible position, you will lead predictive and preventative maintenance strategies using cutting‑edge tools such as lubrication management, infrared thermography, vibration monitoring, non‑destructive testing (NDT), and comprehensive inspection programs.

You’ll combine technical expertise with leadership to analyze equipment data, diagnose emerging issues, and predict failures before they occur. Your insights and initiatives will directly contribute to improved asset health, reduced downtime, and long‑term operational success.

This position is ideal for a self‑starter who enjoys problem‑solving, driving improvement, and working cross‑functionally to elevate maintenance practices across a dynamic site.

What You’ll Do

• Lead predictive and preventative maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment reliability.
• Apply advanced vibration analysis, motor spectral analysis, and other NDT methods to assess asset condition.
• Interpret data trends to identify risks, troubleshoot equipment issues, and make proactive recommendations.
• Champion reliability improvement initiatives, including RCFA, FMEA, work management best practices, and improved KPI utilization.
• Collaborate closely with operations, engineering, procurement, and maintenance teams to drive alignment and deliver results.
• Guide, coach, and influence others in the adoption of reliability tools, technologies, and processes.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (required).
• 2+ years of experience in reliability or maintenance, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Experience with vibration analysis and machinery lubrication (preferred).
• Demonstrated leadership in implementing new technologies or maintenance methodologies.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional teams in a matrixed environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively at all organizational levels.
• High mechanical aptitude with the ability to connect data insights to physical equipment.
• Strong computer skills and comfort with maintenance or analysis software tools.
• Self‑motivated, resourceful, and capable of working with minimal direction.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Sappi does not provide visa sponsorship.

Salary is determined by a number of factors including the value of the job to the organization, market forces, internal equity and skills brought to the job.

Sappi provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sappi complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.