Senior Applied Technology Engineer

Position Overview

The Senior Applied Technology Engineer is responsible for identifying and implementing improvements to current manufacturing processes at Gopher Resource’s two secondary lead smelting plants. Projects will involve detailed mechanical design, project timeline management, coordination with internal trades and external contractors, and on-site installation support. Projects will often be multi-phase process overhauls with multiple installations. Must have the ability to evaluate data and make meaningful first‑hand observations in an industrial environment.

Must be able to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams at multiple manufacturing sites.

This posting is for 2 openings that can be based in either Eagan, MN or Tampa, FL.

• Applies sound engineering principles to the design of manufacturing equipment.
• Develops working knowledge of existing processes and leverages both internal and external subject matter expertise to advance projects.
• Effectively leads equipment design projects by providing technical expertise, creating and / or reviewing designs, and managing project deliverables through commissioning.
• Works safely in lab and manufacturing environments and sets an example by following EHS procedures and looking for opportunities to keep all employees safer.
• Identifies, evaluates, and implements new technology into the manufacturing process.

• Develops mechanical and process designs for new equipment, with support from internal or external resources as needed.
• Develops installation specifications and commissioning plans for new equipment. Supports installations on-site.
• Organizes and manages multiple projects to assure high quality and timely service to all internal and external customers.
• Updates documentation (P&IDs, PFDs, equipment drawings etc.) based on field verifications of current equipment and equipment modifications or replacements. Makes updates personally or provides redlines to drafting resources.
• Works closely with the plant Process Engineers, Reliability Engineers, Maintenance Engineers, and department managers / supervisors. Solicits input and builds consensus for upcoming changes.
• Conducts cost analysis weighing the pros / cons of various options and the impact to plant operations. Manages project costs.
• Attends consortium meetings, conferences, vendor presentations, and training courses to gather information about opportunities for improvement.
• Performs and documents equipment trials and / or experiments as needed to determine if proposed solutions are viable.
• Works with the Training Department to develop training for new equipment installations or process changes.
• Responds promptly and effectively to the needs of the business.
• This position reports to the Applied Technology Manager.

• Either
  1) a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited College or University OR
  2) a Bachelor’s Degree in another engineering discipline from an accredited College or University AND 5+ years of previous work experience with mechanical design of process equipment.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in an engineering role in a manufacturing, industrial research and development, or military environment.
• 3+ years of experience with developing specifications and installing custom equipment in partnership with equipment fabricators and multidisciplinary on-site contractors (millwrights, pipe fitters, electricians, etc.).
• Previous experience working with equipment fabricators and machine shops for fabrication of complex equipment assemblies and parts.
• Previous experience working with engineering specialists such as engineering designers, Structural Engineers, engineering modeling specialists (CFD, FEA etc.), instrumentation experts, etc.
• Previous experience with 2D and 3D CAD software such as AutoCAD Inventor or Solid Works.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to champion change, promote a positive team atmosphere, and sustain a continuous improvement culture.
• Highly self‑motivated and directed, ability to work well under pressure during time limited installation, sense of urgency, and attention to detail.