Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Vulcan Elements is dedicated to the production of American-made rare-earth permanent magnets, which are crucial for enhancing national security and bolstering economic resilience. Our focus spans vital industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive, as we strive to foster a future driven by advanced technology. We are currently in search of a Mechanical Engineer who will be instrumental in our manufacturing growth, taking charge of the design, installation, and operation of essential mechanical and utility systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the design and execution of mechanical utility systems, which encompass chilled water, cooling water, domestic water, compressed air, argon, nitrogen, and hydrogen systems.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors to develop mechanical layouts, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), equipment specifications, and installation documentation utilizing CAD tools such as AutoCAD, Inventor, and SolidWorks.
• Oversee the mechanical installation processes in conjunction with EPC, general contractors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and internal teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Manage the commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and validation phases of equipment and utility systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Facilitate the installation of production equipment by ensuring that mechanical utilities are integrated and systems are prepared for operation.
• Conduct field inspections to verify the quality of installations, compliance with safety regulations, and adherence to engineering standards.
• Create scopes of work, project schedules, budgets, and technical documentation for mechanical engineering projects.
• Assist in procurement activities, track costs, and prepare reporting documentation to maintain project budgets.
• Spearhead or participate in initiatives aimed at enhancing system reliability, energy efficiency, and maintainability across operations.
• Ensure that all project phases comply with OSHA regulations and the company's safety standards.
• Regularly communicate project updates, risks, and milestones to leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment.
• Provide technical assistance during the startup and initial production phases, ensuring a smooth transition of systems to operations and maintenance teams, complete with necessary documentation and training.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Technology is required.
• At least 3 years of experience in mechanical engineering, particularly within industrial, manufacturing, or heavy industry environments.
• In-depth understanding of mechanical utility systems, piping design, fluid systems, and industrial machinery is essential.
• Familiarity with industrial utilities, including chilled water, cooling water, compressed air, and industrial gases, is preferred.
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks) and project management tools is necessary.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, schematics, and technical specifications is crucial.
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills are required for success in this role.
• Must be capable of thriving in dynamic industrial environments and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Candidates must be U.S. Persons due to the necessity for access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Nice to have

• Experience with industrial gas systems, including argon, nitrogen, and hydrogen, or high-purity piping systems.
• Familiarity with capital project budgeting, procurement processes, and contractor management practices.
• Knowledge of additional industrial utilities, such as power distribution, HVAC systems, and process cooling.
• Relevant certifications like OSHA 30, PMP, EIT/FE, Six Sigma, or similar qualifications are advantageous.
• A background in commissioning, reliability engineering, or long-term asset management would be beneficial.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

This position necessitates regular presence on the production floor, requiring the ability to navigate various areas of the facility. Candidates should be able to climb stairs, stand, and walk for extended durations, and work in environments that may be hot, humid, or noisy. The role also involves the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, and adherence to all safety policies, procedures, and regulations. Employees must complete necessary fit testing, wear appropriate PPE during tasks, and respond safely to changing conditions in the production environment.