Mechanical Engineer

West Fraser; Nacogdoches (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits starting Day 1

Medical, Dental & Vision

401K with company match and additional

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid vacations and holidays

Job summary

West Fraser in Texas is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support mill operations by analyzing, improving, and automating safety-critical processes. This role emphasizes equipment reliability, advanced process control, and real-time optimization to boost safety, throughput, and uptime across our lumber operations.

You will work with cross-functional teams to evaluate process variability, health of systems, and performance data, deploying model-based controls and predictive

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field).
• Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and industrial data-analysis tools.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Support capital projects and equipment upgrades, coordinating with vendors and internal teams.
• Facilitate root cause analysis (RCA) for downtime and efficiency loss events.
• Collaborate with maintenance and production teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and promote safe work practices.

Skills

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Data analysis

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

PLC programming

HMI programming

Industrial data-analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support mill operations by analyzing, improving, and automating complex safety production processes. This role is an entry level, learning role which focuses on equipment reliability, advanced process control strategies, and real-time optimization technologies that enhance safety, throughput, and system uptime across our lumber manufacturing operations.

Duties And Responsibilities

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support mill operations by analyzing, improving, and automating complex safety production processes. This role is an entry level, learning role which focuses on equipment reliability, advanced process control strategies, and real-time optimization technologies that enhance safety, throughput, and system uptime across our lumber manufacturing operations.

You will work closely with cross-functional teams to evaluate process variability, system health, and machine-performance data, deploying model-based control strategies and predictive maintenance methodologies to improve operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Support capital projects and equipment upgrades, coordinating with vendors and internal teams.
• Facilitate root cause analysis (RCA) for downtime and efficiency loss events.
• Collaborate with maintenance and production teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and promote a culture of safe work practices.

Competencies

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Use analytics to improve process performance.
• Problem Solving: Troubleshoot complex systems and develop logical solutions.
• Adaptability: Thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Clear Communication: Convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field such as Ag Science, Ag Engineering, etc...).
• Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and industrial data-analysis tools.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred

• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial production environment.
• Knowledge of industrial communication networks.
• Exposure to optimization systems, machine vision, robotics, and automated material handling.
• Experience developing or modifying PLC and HMI programs.
• Project management experience and ability to work independently.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing mill and office settings.
• Exposure to noise, moving equipment, and variable temperatures.
• Physical activities include walking, standing, and occasional lifting.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automation and reliability projects.
• Career development pathways from entry-level to senior engineering roles.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Outstanding Benefits Package Includes

• Benefits starting Day 1
• Competitive starting pay
• On-the-job training
• A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
• Medical, Dental & Vision
• 401K with company match and additional retirement contribution
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid vacations and holidays

Apply

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: https://www.westfraser.com/careers/current-opportunities

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).

We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace (DFW)