Area Reliability Engineer 1 Area Reliability Engineer 1

Sappi•Cloquet, MN

About The Position

The Senior Electrical Reliability Engineer leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of electrical reliability strategies across the facility. This role places strong emphasis on electrical reliability‑centered maintenance (RCM), asset health management, and long‑term equipment performance. The engineer serves as the subject‑matter expert for electrical systems, driving improvements that enhance safety, reduce downtime, and optimize lifecycle cost.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology, or a 2‑year related technical degree, and 5+ years of experience working with electrical systems in an industrial manufacturing environment.
Strong background in electrical reliability, maintenance engineering, or industrial electrical systems.
Demonstrated experience with reliability‑centered maintenance (RCM) methodologies.
Proficiency with electrical distribution systems, motors, drives, and protective relays.
Experience with predictive and condition‑based monitoring technologies.
Strong analytical, communication, and cross‑functional leadership skills.

Nice To Haves

Professional certifications such as CMRP or CRE preferred.
Experience in heavy industrial, manufacturing, pulp & paper, chemical, or similar environments.
Familiarity with digital reliability tools or asset management systems (EAM/CMMS platforms).
Experience with arc‑flash studies, power system analysis, and electrical system modeling software.

Responsibilities

Lead the creation, execution, and optimization of electrical reliability‑centered maintenance (RCM) programs, including failure mode analysis, criticality assessments, and maintenance strategy development.
Provide advanced technical expertise for troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis of electrical equipment failures, ensuring sustainable corrective and preventive actions.
Develop and maintain electrical asset health models, predictive maintenance technologies, and condition‑based monitoring programs (infrared thermography, partial discharge testing, motor circuit analysis, etc.).
Oversee reliability improvements for electrical distribution systems, including switchgear, transformers, MCCs, drives, motors, and protective relaying.
Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to strengthen reliability culture and ensure alignment with plant goals.
Lead or support capital projects related to electrical infrastructure upgrades, equipment replacements, and reliability enhancements.
Maintain and improve electrical equipment standards, maintenance procedures, and documentation.
Analyze equipment performance data to identify trends, prioritize improvements, and recommend long‑term reliability strategies.
Ensure compliance with electrical safety standards (NFPA 70E, NEC, OSHA) and champion safe work practices.
Mentor junior engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel in electrical reliability best practices.