Utilities Reliability Lead

The Utilities Reliability Lead serves as the primary technical resource and Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all utility systems, including high-pressure boilers, steam distribution, condensate recovery, water treatment, compressed air, HVAC, refrigeration support systems, and related utility infrastructure. This position is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of utility systems while driving continuous improvement through preventive, predictive, precision, and corrective maintenance practices.
The Utilities Reliability Lead provides technical leadership and mentoring for Utility Maintenance Technicians and Operators, develops and maintains training programs and operating procedures, and serves as the designated backup to the Utilities Manager. This position partners closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and external service providers to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and support operational excellence.

Job Duties:

Maintain safe and reliable operation of utility systems.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives that improve OEE, reduce downtime, and lower maintenance costs.
Support emergency response efforts associated with utility equipment failures.
Ensure accurate completion of work orders, maintenance records, and reliability documentation.
Utilize CMMS systems to track equipment performance, maintenance history, and reliability improvements.
Participate in plant continuous improvement activities and reliability-focused projects.
Communicate equipment status, risks, and recommended actions to leadership and stakeholders.
Promote a culture focused on safety, reliability, quality, and employee development.

Utility Systems Reliability

Serve as the Subject Matter Expert for all utility systems and boiler room operations.
Monitor and improve reliability of boilers, steam distribution systems, condensate systems, deaerators, softeners, water treatment equipment, air compressors, HVAC equipment, pumps, and associated utility infrastructure.
Lead troubleshooting efforts for utility-related equipment failures and chronic performance issues.
Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and develop corrective actions to prevent recurring failures.
Support capital projects, system upgrades, and reliability improvement initiatives.
Maintain utility system documentation, operating procedures, and equipment histories.

Predictive and Precision Maintenance

Review and act upon vibration monitoring reports generated through Tractian and other predictive maintenance technologies.
Coordinate corrective actions stemming from predictive maintenance findings.
Lead alignment activities for motors, pumps, and rotating equipment.
Support lubrication excellence and condition-based maintenance programs.
Review equipment failure trends and recommend reliability improvement strategies.
Partner with maintenance teams to improve preventive maintenance effectiveness and execution.

Boiler and Water Treatment Systems

Provide technical leadership for high-pressure boiler operations and compliance.
Serve as primary liaison with Nalco and other water treatment providers.
Monitor boiler water chemistry, cooling water chemistry, condensate quality, and treatment program effectiveness.
Investigate water treatment deviations and implement corrective actions.
Ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements related to utility systems.

Training and Team Development

Develop, maintain, and continuously improve utility operating procedures, SOPs, and work instructions.
Create and administer technical training programs for Utility Maintenance Technicians and Boiler Operators.
Conduct on-the-job training and mentor technicians to improve technical competency.
Support cross-training initiatives to strengthen workforce flexibility and succession planning.
Serve as a trusted technical advisor and coach for operations and maintenance teams.

Leadership and Management Support

Serve as the designated backup to the Utilities Manager.
Assist with prioritization of utility-related maintenance activities.
Support scheduling and staffing coverage to ensure uninterrupted utility operations.
Coordinate contractor activities related to utility systems.
Participate in budget planning, equipment assessments, and long-range asset management initiatives.
Assist with regulatory inspections, audits, and compliance activities.
Lead by example in promoting safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED required.
Minimum of 8 years of utility operations, boiler operations, maintenance, or reliability experience in a manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated technical expertise in steam generation and utility systems.
Experience troubleshooting pumps, motors, rotating equipment, and industrial utility systems.
Experience with CMMS systems and maintenance planning.
Extensive knowledge of high-pressure boilers and steam systems.
Strong understanding of water treatment chemistry and utility system optimization.
Advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
Knowledge of predictive maintenance technologies and vibration analysis.
Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical schematics, and mechanical drawings.
Strong communication and training skills.
Proven ability to lead without direct authority.
Strong organizational and planning capabilities.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Arkansas Boiler Operator License or equivalent certification.
Associate's Degree, technical certification, or equivalent experience in Industrial Maintenance, Engineering Technology, or related field.
Reliability-focused training or certifications.
Vibration analysis training.
Precision alignment training.
Water treatment program management experience.
Supervisory or leadership experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Vets / Disabled

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