Reliability Engineer – Boiler Systems

The Junior Reliability Engineer – Boiler Systems supports the analysis, maintenance planning, and performance optimization of industrial boiler and steam generation systems. This role focuses on improving equipment uptime, reducing failures, and supporting preventive and predictive maintenance activities. The engineer will assist in root cause analysis (RCA), condition monitoring, and implementing reliability improvement initiatives under guidance from senior engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Reliability Monitoring & Data Collection

• Collect and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for boiler systems (e.g., availability, MTBF, downtime, fuel efficiency).

• Monitor equipment condition using tools such as vibration sensors, thermography, and ultrasound (under supervision).

• Assist with steam trap surveys, condensate recovery evaluations, and boiler blowdown optimization.

2. Preventive & Predictive Maintenance Support

• Support the development and execution of preventive maintenance plans for:

  • Steam boilers (fire-tube, water-tube)

  • Feedwater systems

  • Burners and fuel handling

  • Blowdown systems and deaerators

• Help implement predictive maintenance strategies including monitoring of pressure parts, refractory wear, and feedwater quality.

3. Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

• Assist in root cause analysis of boiler-related failures or unplanned downtime.

• Participate in troubleshooting sessions with maintenance, operators, and vendors to identify recurring issues.

4. Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain detailed records of inspections, repairs, and modifications.

• Support audits and compliance activities related to:

  • ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

  • NFPA 85 (Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards Code)

  • OSHA 1910 safety standards

5. Engineering Support for Modifications

• Contribute to small-scale improvement projects (e.g., burner upgrades, control loop tuning, water treatment system enhancements).

• Support engineering change requests, materials selection, and design modifications for improved reliability.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with operations and utilities teams to understand boiler performance issues and develop basic engineering solutions.

• Collaborate with external contractors during maintenance shutdowns and inspections.

Focus Areas:

• Reliability and availability of steam and boiler systems

• Support for preventive and predictive maintenance programs

• Root cause and failure mode analysis

• Compliance tracking for safety and boiler codes

• Data tracking and reporting for asset health

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Reliability Engineering, or a related field

• 0–2 years of experience (including internships) in plant utilities, boiler systems, or industrial maintenance

• Familiarity with steam generation processes and utility plant operations is preferred

• Interest in condition-based monitoring (CBM), asset management, and equipment reliability

Certifications (Preferred):

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification

• Boiler Operator License (optional or in progress)

• OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification

• Awareness of NFPA 85 and ASME code requirements

Key Skills:

• Strong analytical and organizational skills

• Familiarity with CMMS tools (e.g., SAP, Maximo, eMaint)

• Basic understanding of boiler components and thermodynamics

• Technical report writing and documentation skills

• Willingness to learn and work hands-on in an industrial setting