Alignment and Balancing Technician – Rotating Equipment

The Mid-Level Alignment and Balancing Technician – Rotating Equipment is responsible for independently performing precision shaft alignment and dynamic balancing of various rotating machinery to ensure optimal performance, reduced vibration, and extended equipment life. The role involves supporting maintenance teams during equipment installation, troubleshooting, and reliability improvement activities. The technician also contributes to vibration-based diagnostics and ensures quality compliance with industry alignment and balancing standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Precision Shaft Alignment:

  • Perform laser and dial indicator-based alignment on pumps, compressors, fans, blowers, turbines, and other rotating equipment.

  • Ensure alignment meets OEM tolerances and industry standards (e.g., API, ISO).

• Dynamic Balancing:

  • Conduct single- and two-plane field balancing of rotors, fans, impellers, and couplings using portable balancing equipment.

  • Analyze vibration data pre- and post-balancing to verify improvement.

• Equipment Installation & Commissioning Support:

  • Support proper positioning and leveling of rotating equipment during installation or overhaul.

  • Verify baseplate flatness, soft foot correction, and coupling alignment before startup.

• Data Collection & Reporting:

  • Record alignment and balancing readings and prepare detailed technical reports.

  • Maintain logs of equipment condition, corrective actions, and vibration trends.

• Condition Monitoring Support:

  • Assist vibration analysts in collecting and interpreting vibration data to identify misalignment or imbalance issues.

  • Recommend alignment or balancing interventions based on observed symptoms.

• Tool Management:

  • Calibrate and maintain precision alignment and balancing tools.

  • Ensure tools are prepared, functional, and used in accordance with safety and technical standards.

• Safety & Quality Compliance:

  • Adhere to mechanical and electrical safety protocols, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, and rotating equipment hazard controls.

  • Ensure alignment and balancing work complies with plant standards and OEM guidelines.

• Mentorship & Collaboration:

  • Support junior technicians by sharing expertise and guiding proper techniques.

  • Work closely with maintenance, operations, and reliability teams to schedule and execute tasks efficiently.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Precision Maintenance Execution:
   Independently execute accurate alignment and balancing procedures for improved equipment reliability and performance.

2. Troubleshooting & Diagnostics:
   Analyze alignment and balance-related faults and contribute to resolving chronic vibration issues.

3. Support for Installation & Overhauls:
   Ensure proper alignment and balance during equipment commissioning and after major maintenance work.

4. Condition Monitoring Interface:
   Use vibration data and condition monitoring feedback to proactively address alignment/balance issues.

5. Technical Documentation & Reporting:
   Deliver accurate reports on alignment, balancing, and vibration trends to support reliability analysis.

6. Safety & Procedure Compliance:
   Maintain a strong focus on personal and team safety during high-risk mechanical maintenance activities.

Qualifications:

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or related field.

• 4–6 years of experience in alignment and balancing of rotating equipment.

• Proficient with laser alignment tools (e.g., PRÜFTECHNIK, ROTALIGN, Fixturlaser) and field balancing equipment (e.g., VIBXPERT, SKF).

• Working knowledge of vibration analysis and ISO/API maintenance standards.

• Competent in using CMMS systems for reporting and task management.

• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork capabilities.

• Certification in alignment or balancing (e.g., Vibration Institute, Mobius) is an advantage.