Engineer - Reliability

Packaging Corporation of America; Michigan; On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Packaging Corporation of America is looking for a Reliability Engineer at our Michigan paper mill. In this role, you will optimize mechanical equipment maintenance, ensuring efficient production processes. Responsibilities include coordinating maintenance activities, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and developing preventive strategies for equipment reliability.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, with 1-3 years of experience in mechanical maintenance, especially within the pulp and paper industry. Strong problem-solving and leadership skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in mechanical maintenance within an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Good understanding of mechanical systems and components used in papermaking.
• Knowledge of safety regulations in industrial maintenance, preferably in pulp and paper.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and coordinate mechanical maintenance activities.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts to resolve mechanical issues.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs.
• Oversee execution of maintenance tasks ensuring safety compliance.
• Utilize CMMS to manage work orders and analyze maintenance data.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for equipment upgrades.

Skills

Mechanical systems knowledge

Problem-solving skills

Communication and interpersonal skills

Leadership abilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

Position Summary:

As a Reliability Engineer at our paper mill facility, you will be responsible for ensuring the effective maintenance, repair, and optimization of mechanical equipment critical to the paper production process. You will utilize your expertise in mechanical engineering and maintenance principles to maximize equipment reliability, minimize downtime, and support the overall operational efficiency of the mill.

Principle Accountabilities:

• Plan, schedule, and coordinate mechanical maintenance activities to ensure the uninterrupted operation of papermaking equipment, including but not limited to pumps, conveyors, boilers, turbines, and associated systems.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts to diagnose and resolve complex mechanical issues, utilizing root cause analysis techniques to identify underlying problems and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs tailored to specific equipment and processes, incorporating reliability‑centered maintenance (RCM) principles to optimize maintenance strategies and extend equipment lifespan.
• Oversee the execution of maintenance tasks, including routine inspections, lubrication, alignment, and component replacement, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, manufacturer guidelines, and engineering standards.
• Utilize computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to manage work orders, track equipment history, and analyze maintenance data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including operations, reliability engineering, and procurement, to support equipment upgrades, modifications, and reliability improvement initiatives.
• Participate in the selection, installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing of new equipment and upgrades, providing input on design considerations, maintainability, and reliability.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in mechanical maintenance applying knowledge to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain documentation of maintenance activities, equipment specifications, manuals, and spare parts inventory, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for maintenance planning and decision‑making.

Interactions:

Works with hourly, salary and the management team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in mechanical maintenance within an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Good understanding of mechanical systems, equipment, and components commonly used in papermaking processes.
• Leadership abilities with the ability to effectively manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects.
• Problem‑solving skills and a systematic approach to troubleshooting mechanical issues.
• Communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and organizational levels.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in industrial maintenance. Preferably in the pulp and paper industry.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in the pulp and paper industry.