Operations Reliability Engineer

Refresco Careers • Paw Paw, MI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Refresco is the leading global independent beverage solutions provider, serving national and international retailers, as well as Global, National and Emerging (GNE) brands. Our products are distributed worldwide from production sites in Europe, North America, and Australia. We are a solutions-based and innovative company that continually improves and seeks out new challenges. This role reports to the Maintenance Manager and is responsible for supporting engineering and maintenance functions through professional engineering work related to design, CAD modeling, construction, and inspection of various projects. The role also involves optimizing production facilities, overseeing line renovations and improvements, and managing treated and wastewater systems, including preparing detailed plans and specifications for project execution.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of mathematics, physics, and core engineering principles and practices.
• Proficiency in desktop computing, including CAD software, for engineering applications.
• Ability to work independently while effectively managing tasks to meet deadlines.
• Strong collaboration skills to work with vendors, facilities teams, and professional contacts as an effective team member.
• Efficient management and utilization of project resources and time to ensure successful execution.
• Strict adherence to confidentiality and data security requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
• BS Engineering – Industrial, Electrical.
• A minimum of 3 years Process Controls Engineering experience.
• Experience in food processing, bottling and packaging.
• Familiarity with National Electric Code/ Canadian Electric Code and Rockwell/AB control hardware/software required.
• Experience with capital related project spending & controls.
• Solid working experience with performance improvements and improved speed to market through line renovations and replacements.

Nice To Haves

• Masters, Engineering strongly desired.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Adhere to food quality and food safety standards.
• Continuously improve manufacturing processes by enhancing quality and performance metrics, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing corrective actions.
• Ensure reliable plant and equipment operations while optimizing maintenance and operational costs, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Design, document, troubleshoot, and oversee the launch of new products and processes from an engineering perspective.
• Identify and resolve safety concerns related to equipment design and manufacturing processes.
• Implement hands-on process improvements to reduce scrap and defects while improving throughput.
• Develop and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and implement Best Practices using engineering methodologies such as Process Flow Design, FMEA, Time Study, and Poke Yoke.
• Coordinate the installation of new equipment to maximize production efficiency and maintainability.
• Serve as a Project Engineer, ensuring project compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and requirements.
• Oversee construction plans, specifications, and necessary modifications based on changing conditions.
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of existing utilities’ capacity and utilization levels to support plant operations.
• Stay current on safety, environmental, and regulatory standards, ensuring plant compliance and best practices.
• Monitor and manage assigned project progress, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Supervise and inspect construction projects, review contractor estimates, and process change orders and progress payments.
• Prepare and submit reports as required for environmental and safety compliance, ensuring a safe and professional work environment.
• Develop and execute capital projects, including new processes, bottling lines, utilities, operational efficiency improvements, and facility management.
• Design, implement, and optimize processing systems, including batching, thermal processing, refrigeration, bottling, CIP (Clean-In-Place), and utility control systems.
• Evaluate alternatives, select and size equipment, develop cost estimates, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with OEM vendors to develop and implement supervisory control schemes that optimize production line performance across multiple products and packaging formats.
• Develop and maintain technical drawings and documentation, including P&IDs, PID loops, ladder diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams.
• Oversee equipment sizing, construction packages, and project execution while managing costs and schedules.
• Ensure all designs and engineering activities comply with industry codes, regulations, and standards.
• Maintain company drawings and technical records while providing clear analysis and reporting.
• Manage capital appropriations, purchase orders, and contracts as required.
• Identify opportunities to improve plant performance, product quality, and employee safety, providing leadership in developing and implementing practical solutions.
• Participate in long-term capital planning.
• Provide technical support for the operation, maintenance, and improvement of processing equipment, production lines, utilities, and buildings.
• Work collaboratively in a team environment to support company objectives, initiatives, and policies.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
• Drive production line performance improvements using Controls Automation and Continuous Improvement methodologies.

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and AD&D Insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance
• Short-term disability and long-term disability
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Benefits
• 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Vacation Days and Paid Sick Time Off Days
• Well-being Benefit Discount and Total Reward Programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level