Reliability Engineer – Mechanical Assets

The Senior Reliability Engineer – Mechanical Assets leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of reliability strategies for critical mechanical equipment. This role is pivotal in minimizing unplanned downtime, optimizing lifecycle costs, and driving asset performance through advanced analysis, strategic planning, and mentoring of junior engineers. The role requires technical leadership in condition monitoring, root cause analysis, maintenance optimization, and reliability engineering best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Reliability Leadership:

• Lead the reliability strategy for rotating and static mechanical assets (pumps, compressors, turbines, heat exchangers, tanks, piping systems).

• Define and drive asset reliability improvement plans aligned with business goals and risk priorities.

• Develop reliability policies, frameworks, and KPIs.

2. Advanced Failure Analysis & RCA:

• Conduct and lead complex Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) for high-impact or recurring failures.

• Recommend and implement design, process, or operational changes to eliminate failure modes.

• Communicate findings and improvements to senior leadership.

3. Maintenance Strategy Optimization:

• Develop and validate Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM), Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and risk-based inspection (RBI) strategies.

• Optimize Preventive Maintenance (PM) and Predictive Maintenance (PdM) programs to reduce cost and risk.

4. Condition Monitoring Oversight:

• Oversee advanced condition monitoring programs (vibration analysis, ultrasound, thermography, lubrication/oil analysis).

• Integrate condition data into decision-making tools and maintenance workflows.

5. Asset Lifecycle Management:

• Provide reliability input into capital project designs, equipment selection, and commissioning processes.

• Lead criticality assessments and asset lifecycle evaluations to inform investment decisions.

6. Standards, Compliance & Best Practices:

• Ensure adherence to industry standards such as API 610, ISO 14224, ASME, NFPA, and OEM specifications.

• Benchmark and implement best practices in asset reliability, mechanical integrity, and maintenance excellence.

7. Coaching & Mentorship:

• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers on reliability engineering techniques and problem-solving.

• Lead knowledge-sharing sessions and promote a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Strategic Reliability Engineering for Mechanical Assets

2. Leadership in Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA)

3. Development and Implementation of RCM, FMEA, RBI

4. Optimization of Preventive & Predictive Maintenance Programs

5. Condition Monitoring Program Oversight and Interpretation

6. Mechanical Asset Lifecycle Planning and Performance Analytics

7. Compliance with API, ISO, ASME, and Mechanical Integrity Standards

8. Mentorship, Technical Leadership, and Cross-Functional Collaboration

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

• 10+ years of experience in reliability engineering or mechanical maintenance

• Strong background in rotating equipment, static pressure systems, and mechanical design standards

• Proven success leading reliability improvement projects in industrial environments

• Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP) or equivalent preferred

• Advanced knowledge of CMMS, RCA tools, and reliability analysis software (e.g., Reliasoft, Meridium, APM)

Skills & Competencies:

• Deep expertise in mechanical failure modes and asset integrity

• Strong analytical, diagnostic, and root cause analysis skills

• Effective communicator with ability to present technical findings to executives

• Skilled in strategic planning, decision making, and cross-disciplinary leadership

• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence