The Reliability Engineer at the Zytel Polymers Plant, located at the Spruance manufacturing site in Richmond, Virginia, plays a critical role in improving equipment reliability and maximizing asset availability within the unit. This role partners with skilled and empowered Polymer Specialists (operators and mechanics) in a High-Performance Work (HPW) environment and serves as a key member of the Zytel Manufacturing Technology Resource organization. The Reliability Engineer provides technical expertise in reliability engineering, performs in-depth assessments of process equipment, and recommends improvements to enhance long-term equipment performance. In addition to leading reliability initiatives, this position also supports day-to-day troubleshooting and serves as the go-to resource for resolving equipment failures and driving continuous improvement.
Responsibilities: Develop and implement equipment asset management plans using Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) and other proven reliability engineering techniques.Lead the execution and continuous improvement of the unit’s reliability and availability programs.Apply engineering principles to perform physical failure analyses, root cause investigations, and equipment performance evaluations.Analyze equipment performance trends and historical data to recommend improvements that reduce downtime and achieve lowest life cycle cost.Evaluate how process variation and operational factors affect equipment reliability and propose mitigation strategies.Promote standardization of equipment procedures and operations to ensure consistency across the unit.Support capital projects by helping define equipment criteria and specifications, and by providing technical support during fabrication, installation, and start-up phases.Participate in turnarounds/shutdowns, contributing to inspection planning, repair procedures, and post-event evaluations.Conduct data-driven root cause analyses (RCAs) to address recurring equipment issues and prevent future failures.Develop and implement reliability improvement plans to close gaps against performance targets.Apply reliability engineering methodologies, tools, and KPIs to continuously enhance asset performance.Collaborate with Process Safety Program Owners and external partners to support Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and ensure process safety integration.Contribute technical insights for the selection and integration of new technologies and system upgrades, with a focus on maintainability and long-term reliability.Actively participate in maintenance and reliability networks, sharing best practices and lessons learned across the organization.Build and maintain technical competency in reliability engineering and actively contribute to internal forums and communities of practice. Qualifications:Required:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.3-7 years demonstrated experience in reliability engineering within a manufacturing or industrial setting.Proficient in root cause analysis, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM).Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret performance data and drive actionable outcomes.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders.Preferred:
Knowledge of process safety management and familiarity with conducting PHAs.Experience supporting capital projects and technology integration.Certification in reliability engineering (e.g., CMRP, CRE) is an asset.Six Sigma and LEAN experienceCelanese is a global leader in chemistry, producing specialty material solutions used across most major industries and consumer applications. Our businesses use our chemistry, technology and commercial expertise to create value for our customers, employees and shareholders. We support sustainability by responsibly managing the materials we create and growing our portfolio of sustainable products to meet customer and societal demand. We strive to make a positive impact in our communities and to foster inclusivity across our teams. Celanese Corporation employs more than 11,000 employees worldwide with 2024 net sales of $10.3 billion. For more information about Celanese Corporation and its product offerings, visit www.celanese.com.
Celanese is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Celanese does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
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