Senior Vibration Specialist

Puffer-Sweiven LP; Stafford, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Puffer-Sweiven LP is seeking a senior field engineer to perform advanced rotating machinery diagnostics and vibration analysis across diverse equipment. You will validate measurement setups, translate findings into actionable recommendations, and collaborate with reliability, maintenance, and operations teams to plan corrective actions.

This role involves leading PdM program design, alarm optimization, and integration of complementary technologies such as oil analysis and infrared thermography.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering or related field and 5+ years in rotating machinery diagnostics and vibration analysis.
• Experience with ODS, ultrasound, and oil analysis program management.
• Must have Vibration Analyst Category III certification.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced rotating machinery diagnostics using vibration spectrum, time waveform analysis, phase, orbit plots, and ODS/motion amplification.
• Validate and optimize measurement setups (Fmax, resolution lines, averaging, windowing, filters, sensor selection, mounting).
• Collaborate with reliability, maintenance, and operations teams to plan corrective actions and capital projects.
• Lead PdM program design, alarm strategy optimization, and integration of additional technologies.
• Develop and maintain vibration analysis databases and templates; mentor other technicians.

Skills

ODS analysis

Ultrasound

Oil analysis program management

Multi-channel vibration analysis

Vibration analyst methodology

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering

Tools

AMS 2140

AMS 2600

AMS Machine Works

Bently Nevada System 1

Job description

Job duties

Perform advanced rotating machinery diagnostics using vibration spectrum, time waveform analysis, phase, orbit plots, and operational deflection shapes (ODS)/motion amplification. Validate and optimize measurement setups such as Fmax, resolution lines, averaging, windowing, filters, route design, sensor selection, and mounting. Translate findings into practical, risk-ranked recommendations. Collaborate with reliability, maintenance, and operations teams to plan corrective actions including alignment, balancing, bearing replacement, rotor repair, and foundation fixes. Lead special projects such as PdM program design, alarm strategy optimization, reciprocating compressor and turbomachinery analysis, and integration of complementary technologies including oil analysis, infrared thermography, ultrasound, process data. Develop and maintain vibration analysis databases, hierarchies, and machine templates. Support Key Performance Indicators (KPI) development and performance reviews for customer programs including defect detection rate, Mean Time Between Failures and Mean Time Between Repairs (MTBF/MTBR) improvement and avoided cost. Serve as a technical mentor for Machine Health Specialists on advanced diagnostics and best practices. Conduct workshops and hands-on training sessions for vibration analysis and Product Data Management technologies. Deliver senior-level diagnostic reports with root cause analysis, risk assessment, and Return on Investment (ROI) justification. Present findings and recommendations to customer stakeholders and executives; influence corrective actions and capital planning. Must be available to work on projects at various, unanticipated sites throughout the United States and internationally (20%).

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, and 5 years of experience in rotating machinery diagnostics and vibration analysis. Experience must include:

• 1. Operational Deflective Shape (ODS) style analysis, ultrasound, and oil analysis program management to manage and building programs;
• 2. Multi-channel analyzers including AMS 2140 and AMS 2600 beyond basic route collection, including diagnostics and troubleshooting;
• 3. Utilizing Turbomachinery condition monitoring platforms including AMS Machine Works and Bently Nevada System 1 to set up, interpret, and use;
• 4. Remote and wireless condition monitoring system configuration and basic commissioning;
• 5. Precision field balancing and shaft alignment performed independently using AMS Machinery Manager;
• 6. Supporting Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) efforts and producing formal machinery health assessments and technical reports; and
• 7. Must have Vibration Analyst Category III certification.

Jobsite

Stafford, TX

Equal Opportunity Employer

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