Mechanical Engineering Associate

Optimized Process Designs, LLC (OPD), a Koch Engineered Solutions company, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineering Associate to support our engineering team in delivering high-quality projects. This entry‑level position is ideal for candidates looking to develop their skills in mechanical engineering within a collaborative and fast‑paced environment. The role will be conducted in the office Monday–Friday at our headquarters in Katy, TX.

This role is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

• Develop and enhance OPD specifications to ensure compliance with industry best practices, codes, and standards.
• Develop internal‑use tools to improve efficiency and accuracy of engineering deliverables.

• Review client standards related to static and rotating equipment, pipe/valves/fittings, welding, inspection, and test plans.
• Develop equipment specifications and vet Request for Quote (RFQ) packages.
• Conduct technical reviews of vendor quotes, including pre‑purchase evaluations.
• Provide Project Managers with guidance on design, purchase, installation, and post‑construction support for mechanical equipment.
• Participate in structured and individual reviews of project documentation, such as Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), 3-D models, and equipment lists.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) and/or HAZOPs.
• Develop pipe specifications and project-specific requirements for Post-Weld Heat Treat (PWHT), Non-Destructive Examination (NDE), bolt coating, torquing, etc.

• Provide technical support for field construction personnel, including site visits.
• Offer commissioning/start‑up support and Request for Information (RFI) assistance.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or other engineering discipline.

• Experience performing Mechanical Engineering duties with an EPC or end user in industrial chemical processing and/or manufacturing.
• Engineer in Training (EIT) Certificate.
• Experience with ASME codes and API standards.
• Experience specifying or maintaining Rotating Equipment (Pumps, Compressors, Expanders, etc.) and/or Static Equipment (Heat Exchangers, Towers, Vessels).
• Direct experience in completing full scope engineering, procurement, construction projects (EPC) on a lump sum, turn‑key basis.

Our benefits plan includes medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria is set by applicable Summary Plan Description, policy or guideline and benefits may vary by geographic region. If you have questions on what benefits apply to you, please speak to your recruiter.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. Except where prohibited by state law, some offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E-Verify. Please  for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information  , aquí , or tu ).