Reliability Engineer
Ripple Foods
Software Engineering
Asheville, NC, USA
Posted on Mar 29, 2026
Overview
We are seeking a Reliability Engineer to drive equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and improve overall asset performance within a manufacturing environment. This role will focus on identifying failure modes, implementing preventive and predictive maintenance strategies, and leading continuous improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate has a strong engineering background and hands-on experience with industrial equipment, reliability methodologies, and data-driven decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability and uptime
- Lead root cause failure analysis (RCFA) on critical equipment failures
- Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance (PM/PdM) strategies
- Utilize reliability tools such as:
- FMEA (Failure Modes & Effects Analysis)
- RCA / RCFA
- Weibull analysis (preferred)
- Partner with maintenance and operations teams to reduce unplanned downtime
- Optimize maintenance plans and spare parts strategies
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as:
- MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)
- MTTR (Mean Time to Repair)
- Equipment uptime and availability
- Support capital projects by providing reliability input on equipment design and selection
- Implement condition monitoring techniques (vibration analysis, thermography, oil analysis, etc.)
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and efficiency
- Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in reliability, maintenance, or manufacturing engineering
- Strong knowledge of industrial equipment and maintenance practices
- Experience with CMMS systems (e.g., SAP, Maximo, or similar)
- Proven experience with root cause analysis and reliability improvement methodologies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally with maintenance, operations, and engineering teams
Preferred Experience
- Experience in heavy manufacturing, power generation, or industrial processing
- Certification such as:
- CMRP (Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional)
- Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher)
- Experience with predictive maintenance technologies and tools
- Familiarity with PLC-controlled systems and automation equipment
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or TPM (Total Productive Maintenance)
Key Traits for Success
- Data-driven and detail-oriented
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple initiatives
- Hands-on mindset with a continuous improvement focus
- Strong communication skills when working with technical and non-technical teams