Some companies are full of machinery. Have you ever wondered how they maintain and keep all that equipment up and running?
A reliability engineer is an answer to that question. He or she is the one who ensures that infrastructure reliability is improved to optimize maximum product or service quantity at the lowest cost possible.
Reliability engineer are also in charge of suggesting and implementing preventive measures when it comes to the machines in the manufacturing plant.
They should be able to predict and replace equipment or parts before failure.
And since they are part of the company’s maintenance division, they should be able to give a system needs analysis for any technological improvements the company may need to make for optimal performance.
Reliability engineering is not a new concept. All companies require effective system maintenance, whether it is in a new or veteran industry.
But one thing is certain. The engineer in charge must be able to access and manage all the reliability risks that could affect the plant or system.
However, not all people can take this position. Here are some of the qualities and characteristics one should be looking for in a reliability engineer:
The reliability engineer should have an engineering degree and background
There are a lot of courses you can choose from. But as the name suggests, this position will require someone with an engineering background.
When applying for this position, you need to come armed with a mechanical, electrical, chemical, aeronautical, civil, or other engineering degree.
Your course should match the field of your current employer. Therefore, if you are a computer engineer, then you should be applying for a company that specializes in computers.
The engineer must be up-to-date with the latest technological advancements in the field
The engineers’ professional development also depends on their knowledge of analysis techniques such as reliability modeling, prediction, statistical process control, and Six Sigma methodology.
Proficiency in using methods for analysis such as root cause analysis (RCA), failure reporting, analysis, and corrective action system (FRACAS), and root-cause failure analysis (RCFA) are essential in doing this job accurately.
Data analyzed through the human brain plus a computer will help facilitate faster results. So reliability engineers must be proficient in computers and information technology.
The engineer must be a logical thinker with exceptional organizational skills
Being an engineer alone does not guarantee your ability to do it. You have to understand and identify issues to be able to implement positive changes in the company.
As a reliability engineer, you are part of the asset operations and risk management teams.
It is your responsibility to ensure the implementation of standardized operating procedures and anticipate all risks that could affect the company or plant.
The engineer should be flexible and able to multitask
The engineer has a lot of responsibilities. Anything that can affect plant and company operations will be under his or her accountability.
Reliability engineers must be able to compartmentalize and juggle all the tasks on hand. If they work for a corporation and handle a couple of sites, then they will need to multitask as competently as possible.
A bright and rational mind is necessary to be able to develop a custom-made reliability strategy for a company.
With the right tools and mindset, one can become an engineer who the company can rely on at any time.