Reliability Engineer – Continuous Improvement
Location: Petersburg, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Salary: Starting at $85,000 annually, based on experience
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on Reliability Engineer to drive equipment reliability, continuous improvement, and maintenance excellence within a heavy manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys being on the plant floor, troubleshooting equipment, working alongside maintenance technicians, and implementing practical solutions that improve operational performance.
The successful candidate will combine technical expertise with a proactive, problem-solving mindset to reduce downtime, optimize maintenance programs, and improve equipment reliability.
### Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement reliability-centered maintenance strategies for critical production equipment.
Lead root cause failure analysis (RCFA) and failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) to identify and eliminate recurring equipment issues.
Support predictive and preventive maintenance programs to improve asset performance and reduce downtime.
Utilize condition monitoring techniques such as vibration analysis, thermography, and lubrication analysis.
Partner with maintenance and operations teams to improve equipment availability and operational efficiency.
Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to maintenance effectiveness and equipment reliability.
Assist with major equipment overhauls, capital improvement projects, and equipment upgrades.
Collaborate with vendors, contractors, and equipment manufacturers to optimize equipment performance.
Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance personnel.
Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and operational standards.
Participate directly in field troubleshooting and hands-on problem solving alongside maintenance teams.
### Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
3+ years of reliability engineering experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or heavy industrial environment.
5+ years of maintenance experience with industrial equipment.
Strong understanding of predictive and preventive maintenance methodologies.
Experience with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).
Knowledge of reliability tools and methodologies such as RCM, RCFA, FMEA, and TPM.
Proficiency in troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems.
Experience analyzing maintenance and reliability data to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Willingness to work closely with maintenance technicians and perform hands-on field support when needed.
### Preferred Qualifications
Experience in steel, metals, or other heavy manufacturing environments.
Certification in reliability engineering (CMRP, CRE, or similar).
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Experience supporting large industrial equipment such as furnaces, rolling mills, cranes, or material handling systems.
### Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) with company match
Paid parental leave
Life insurance coverage
Annual bonus opportunity
Employee assistance programs
Tuition reimbursement
Career development and advancement opportunities
Why Join Us?
This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanically inclined engineer who enjoys solving complex equipment problems, working directly with maintenance teams, and driving meaningful improvements in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. If you're the type of engineer who isn't afraid to get your hands dirty and tackle challenges head-on, we'd love to hear from you.
