Project Engineer

Kern Energy; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 92,000 - 122,000; Full time

Job summary

Kern Energy in Bakersfield, CA, is seeking a skilled Project Engineer to enhance safety and efficiency through technical expertise. The role includes managing capital projects, engaging in incident investigations, and maintaining engineering processes.

The ideal candidate should possess a Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering disciplines and have 0-5 years of experience, preferably in the oil and gas sector. This full-time position offers an engaging work environment emphasizing teamwork and safety.

Qualifications

• 0-5 years experience as a mechanical engineer, preferably in refineries or petrochemical industries.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and practices relevant to the position.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute sustaining capital projects within assigned units.
• Coordinate with inspection teams and support turnaround activities.
• Prepare and maintain accurate engineering work packages.

Skills

Project management skills

Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (PIDs)

Knowledge of ASME and API codes

Excellent communication skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Experience with Microsoft Project

Ability to generate hand-drawn sketches

Knowledge of AutoCAD

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in mechanical, chemical, or manufacturing engineering

Job description

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: Corporate Office - Bakersfield, CA 93307Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: $92,000.00 - $122,000.00 Salary/yearTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayJob Category: EngineeringPosition Summary

Kern Energy is seeking a skilled Project Engineer to support our operations by providing technical engineering expertise that enhances safety, compliance, reliability, and cost efficiency. This role is responsible for managing and executing sustaining capital projects within assigned units and supporting turnaround activities through timely, accurate engineering of repair and discovery work. The Project Engineer will serve as a vital link between operations, maintenance, and inspection teams, ensuring effective communication and coordination. This position also participates in task forces, incident investigations, and drives consistent application of Kern Energy’s Management of Change process. To be successful, this position will also exhibit Kern’s core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Job Function

• Design of piping system repairs, including identifying specifications, metallurgy, layout, and supports for sustaining capital projects in their assigned area
• Understand/use equipment standards and ASME, API, NFPA, and related industry codes
• Knowledge/experience related to pressure vessels, piping, heat exchangers, and factors that affect the reliability of fixed equipment
• Work with the inspections department to generate and resolve Equipment Deficiency Reports (EDRs)
• Generate and see to completion Management Of Change (MOCs) for their assigned projects
• Maintain current and accurate process safety information for MOCs in their unit
• Verify and finalize components of engineering work packages including specialty items, tie lists, line lists, and related isometrics
• Participate in related task forces as required
• Assist with incident investigations as required
• Resolve PHA action items as required
• Support construction activities, including resolving issues in the field
• Support turnaround activities as required
• Participate in an area team environment
• Follow through on commitments made to others
• Create and maintain a neat, clean well-organized and professional-looking work area
• Other duties as assigned by your supervisor

Knowledge Skills

• Strong project management skills, including experience in planning, implementing, and monitoring projects.
• Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (PIDs)
• Strong knowledge of ASME and API piping and pressure vessel codes and standards is desirable.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and practices, as well as industry standards and regulations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify and mitigate project risks.
• Ability to work well under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of the fundamentals of project management front-end engineering and project planning and scheduling desired.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools, such as Microsoft Project.
• Experience in developing project plans and timelines, creating project scopes, identifying project risks, and developing contingency plans.
• Designing and developing project specifications, including engineering and architectural plans, cost estimates, and project schedules.
• Ability to generate hand-drawn field sketches.
• Piping isometrics and a general knowledge of AutoCAD or equivalent is desirable.
• Managing project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
• Monitoring project progress, identify and mitigate risks, and report on progress to stakeholders.
• Ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders, understand their needs and expectations, and ensure that projects meet their requirements.
• Supervise project teams, including engineers, technicians, and other professionals, to ensure that they work effectively together and deliver quality work.
• Up to date with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.

Education/ Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in mechanical, chemical, or manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• 0-5 years experience as a mechanical engineer, preferably in refineries, petrochemicals, or related industries is desirable.
• Exposure to dust, gas, or fumes ( dust and petroleum fumes)