Senior Field Service Engineer (Mechanical and Control Focus)

Overview

KADANT BLACK CLAWSON LLC (KBC) is an established leader in equipment and systems for the international pulp and paper process industries. For 150 years, we've helped our customers reduce their input costs and improve efficiency through innovative products and technologies. Our sustainability efforts have been nationally recognized, and Kadant is also listed on the New York Stock Exchange (KAI). Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is located in Lebanon, OH, where we design and manufacture our products for customers across the globe.

We currently seek to fill the position of Senior Field Service Engineer (Mechanical and Controls Focus) to provide technical support in selling aftermarket products and repair services. This role involves supervising and advising customers on the erection, check-out, start-up, and troubleshooting of KBC equipment and systems. Additionally, the Field Service Engineer will support and troubleshoot automation control systems for customers, ensuring adherence to company standards and client requirements, all while advancing KBC's mission of being a forward-thinking, collaborative, and ethical business.

Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities

• Independently represents the Company in the installation, start-up, operation, and maintenance of our equipment.
• Leads commissioning & start-up activities during mechanical installation and control system implementation for Kadant equipment.
• Makes personal contact with customers or prospective customers in the field, assisting in the solution of operating problems and keeping them abreast of new developments, services, machinery and/or equipment.
• Shares advanced engineering knowledge by conducting technical training at customer sites on KBC equipment and systems operation and maintenance.
• Participates in regular review of field technical problems with necessary KBC employees and provides valuable input and direction into the development and follow-through of recommended corrective action(s).
• Cooperates and works with other departments to assure customer acceptance of purchased products.
• Represents the Company in handling customer complaints and resolving problems that could significantly impact KBC or the customer.
• Evaluates customer maintenance practices and procedures with regards to maintaining KBC equipment, compares the results of that evaluation to KBC's recommended practices and procedures, and communicates inconsistencies and recommended resolutions to the appropriate individual.
• Works toward the improvement of present equipment and/or the development of new equipment.
• Submits timely, comprehensive call reports to KBC management, including independent recommendations based on technical knowledge of KBC equipment for necessary corrective action(s) and follow up.
• Promotes the use of KBC parts and services when working with customer representatives.
• Plans customer call schedules, submits up-to-date itineraries, and submits timely travel-related expense reports.

Qualifications

Required Skills/Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent sales and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Exceptional mechanical aptitude.
• Able to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical and automation issues by leveraging strong PLC programming skills.
• Proficient knowledge and experience with Rockwell Automation and/or Siemens PLC programming, including device communications, Ethernet and Ethernet/IP networks, control networks and buses. Experience with HMI configuration, motor controls, and VFD troubleshooting and configuration.
• Skilled in conducting I/O checkouts on equipment and diagnosing electrical system issues.
• Capable of performing field wiring modifications effectively as needed.
• Experience in using electrical diagnostics tools - voltmeter, multimeter, oscilloscope, etc.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Demonstrates KBC values of personal accountability, discipline, trust, and proactive action.
• A high degree of technical competence and/or experience in the pulp and paper or allied fields is required for this position.
• A Bachelor's Degree in pulp and paper technology or engineering from an accredited college or university, together with a minimum five (5) years' experience in field service is required.
• A broad knowledge in the manufacturing, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of equipment and systems operation is also required.
• Must be able to read and understand engineering and/or manufacturing drawings of KBC equipment and to identify and communicate revisions to engineering drawings if required.