Process Reliability Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of manufacturing and production, the role of a Process Reliability Engineer holds high importance.

As industrialization progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can enhance, maintain, and ensure the efficiency of our production processes escalates.

But what exactly does a Process Reliability Engineer do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of process reliability engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Process Reliability Engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve deeper into it.

Process Reliability Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Process Reliability Engineers are responsible for maintaining and improving the performance and reliability of industrial processes and manufacturing systems.

They use their expertise in engineering principles, statistical analysis, and problem-solving techniques to optimize equipment and processes, reduce downtime, and improve overall process efficiency.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluating and optimizing industrial processes to improve reliability and performance
• Identifying and analyzing process risks and developing risk mitigation strategies
• Designing, implementing, and monitoring predictive and preventive maintenance programs
• Using statistical analysis to identify process trends and root causes of process failures
• Working with operations and maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and resolve process issues
• Assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of existing equipment and proposing upgrades or replacements when necessary
• Investigating process incidents and failures and implementing corrective actions
• Developing and implementing process control strategies to ensure process stability and minimize variability
• Providing technical support and training to operations and maintenance personnel
• Documenting all process reliability studies, analyses, and improvement efforts for future reference and continuous improvement
• Complying with all relevant safety regulations and standards related to process reliability engineering

 

Process Reliability Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Process Reliability Engineer to evaluate, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve reliability and efficiency.

The Process Reliability Engineer will analyze the current processes, identify areas of improvement and implement changes.

They will be responsible for ensuring that our production lines are running smoothly and efficiently, while also minimizing downtime.

The ideal candidate is an analytical thinker with a firm understanding of engineering concepts, and a knack for identifying and rectifying process inefficiencies.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement process improvements to increase product quality and reliability
• Analyze manufacturing data to identify trends and root causes of process inefficiencies
• Conduct equipment audits and develop strategies to improve reliability and efficiency
• Work with the maintenance team to develop preventive maintenance schedules
• Develop standard operating procedures and safety guidelines for production staff
• Coordinate with production and engineering teams to design and implement new processes
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of process improvements
• Lead efforts to improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Provide training and guidance on new process implementations

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Process Reliability Engineer or similar role
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and process improvement techniques
• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective action planning
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• BSc degree in Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Process Reliability Engineer
• Work Environment: On-site within a manufacturing facility. Some travel may be required for equipment inspections or industry conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Operations Manager or Director of Manufacturing.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Process Reliability Engineer Do?

Process Reliability Engineers typically work for manufacturing companies, oil and gas industries, or any field that involves a complex process system.

They mainly focus on enhancing the reliability of the processes and systems within a manufacturing or production environment.

They employ statistical analysis, reliability theory and predictive maintenance techniques to increase overall equipment efficiency.

Their job is to identify and analyze areas of reliability risk in the production or manufacturing processes.

They develop strategies and methods to reduce or eliminate these risks and improve overall reliability and performance.

Process Reliability Engineers also conduct root cause analysis of equipment failures and system inefficiencies.

They work in collaboration with maintenance teams and other engineers to develop proactive maintenance strategies.

They may be responsible for designing and implementing reliability-centered maintenance programs.

Also, they are often involved in the design phase of new equipment or processes to ensure reliability and maintainability are factored into the design.

Many Process Reliability Engineers also provide training to operations and maintenance personnel, emphasizing the importance of reliability and the role each person plays in achieving it.

 

Process Reliability Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Process Reliability Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong technical knowledge to understand and analyze the reliability, performance and safety of the industrial process
• Ability to use and interpret data from software tools to predict, prevent and minimize process failures and inefficiencies
• Exceptional problem-solving skills to identify potential issues and implement effective solutions to increase process reliability
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work cohesively with cross-functional teams and effectively relay information and instructions
• Attention to detail in order to detect anomalies in data and system performance
• Experience in project management to plan, execute and monitor reliability improvement initiatives
• Understanding of risk management principles and ability to conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment, prioritizing multiple tasks, and meeting deadlines

 

Process Reliability Engineer Experience Requirements

Process Reliability Engineers are often required to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, particularly in fields such as mechanical, electrical or industrial engineering.

This initial education provides them with the theoretical knowledge required for the role.

In terms of work experience, entry-level candidates usually need 1 to 2 years of experience.

This could be acquired through internships or part-time roles, often in positions related to manufacturing, engineering or quality assurance.

Candidates seeking mid-level Process Reliability Engineer roles should ideally have 3 to 5 years of experience in a related field.

This experience often involves working in manufacturing environments, where they get hands-on experience in improving process reliability and productivity.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, particularly in roles that involve process improvement, reliability analysis, and maintenance strategy development, are often considered for senior roles.

Experience in using reliability analysis software and project management may also be required for these positions.

Additionally, certifications from recognized bodies such as the Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP) or Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) are often looked upon favorably by employers and can enhance a candidate’s prospects.

Lastly, due to the nature of the role, experience with statistical analysis, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), and root cause analysis is often a requirement.

As is experience with relevant software and tools used in reliability engineering.

 

Process Reliability Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Process Reliability Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably mechanical, electrical, industrial or chemical engineering.

They require a comprehensive understanding of reliability engineering principles and practices, along with familiarity with statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and risk management.

Additionally, hands-on experience with reliability analysis tools like Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) is highly beneficial.

Some roles, particularly those in highly specialized or advanced industries, may require a master’s degree in reliability engineering or a related field.

It is also common for Process Reliability Engineers to obtain certification from recognized institutions such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the Society of Reliability Engineers (SRE).

These certifications validate the engineers’ expertise and commitment to continuous learning in the field of reliability engineering.

Finally, experience in industry-specific tools and regulations, such as those in the oil, gas, nuclear, or pharmaceutical sectors, can be an additional requirement depending on the job role.

 

Process Reliability Engineer Salary Expectations

A Process Reliability Engineer earns an average salary of $89,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can differ based on factors like work experience, educational background, geographical location, and the industry in which they are employed.

 

Process Reliability Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Process Reliability Engineer need?

Process Reliability Engineers need a strong technical understanding of process control and manufacturing systems.

This includes knowledge of engineering principles, machinery, and equipment.

They should have analytical skills for problem-solving, strong attention to detail, and the ability to use predictive and preventative maintenance tools.

Communication skills are essential to explain complex technical issues to non-technical colleagues.

 

Do Process Reliability Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Process Reliability Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or additional certification in reliability engineering or related specializations.

Relevant work experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting is also typically required.

 

What should you look for in a Process Reliability Engineer resume?

In addition to a relevant engineering degree, look for experience with reliability analysis and predictive and preventive maintenance.

Familiarity with relevant software and tools, such as statistical analysis software or computer-aided design (CAD) software, is a plus.

Look for evidence of problem-solving skills, as well as any certifications relevant to the role, such as Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE).

 

What qualities make a good Process Reliability Engineer?

A good Process Reliability Engineer is analytical and detail-oriented, capable of scrutinizing processes and systems to identify potential issues.

They’re proactive, focusing on preventative maintenance to avoid potential future problems.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to effectively rectify any issues that do arise.

Good communication skills are also necessary to effectively relay complex technical information to various teams.

 

Is it difficult to hire Process Reliability Engineers?

Hiring a Process Reliability Engineer can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a combination of technical expertise and hands-on experience in reliability engineering, making the pool of qualified candidates relatively small.

Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a well-structured work environment can attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we have illuminated the intricate and demanding role of a process reliability engineer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about maintaining equipment.

It’s about ensuring seamless and efficient operations, one process at a time.

With our tried-and-true process reliability engineer job description template and realistic examples, you’re all geared up for action.

But why rest on your laurels?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your next move for creating spot-on job listings or polishing your resume to a high sheen.

Never forget:

Every process is a cog in the machine of success.

Let’s engineer that success. Together.