Project Engineer

Kern Energy CA; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Kern Energy CA is seeking a skilled Project Engineer in Bakersfield, California, to manage sustaining capital projects while ensuring safety, compliance, and reliability. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's in engineering and up to 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in petrochemical settings. Key responsibilities include technical support, project management, and effective communication between teams. The role demands strong leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with industry standards. Join a values-driven team committed to excellence and safety.

Qualifications

• 0-5 years experience as a mechanical engineer, preferably in refineries or petrochemicals.
• Strong knowledge of ASME and API piping and pressure vessel codes.
• Ability to work well under pressure and tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support operations by providing technical engineering expertise.
• Manage and execute sustaining capital projects.
• Ensure effective communication between operations, maintenance, and inspection teams.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (PIDs)

Problem-solving

Leadership

Education

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

Tools

Microsoft Project

AutoCAD

Job description

Position 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 and 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 and 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)