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Associate Reliability Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, LA

PLC Programmer

Carencro, LA ยท On-site

$54K - $74K/yr

... reliability, appropriateness, and sourcing considerations. * Analyze current processes and programs ... Associates Degree in Electronics, Instrumentation and Controls or other related discipline ...

Associate Reliability Engineer information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$58.3K

$112.7K

$134.7K

How much do associate reliability engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate reliability engineer in Lafayette, LA is $112,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,900.00 and $123,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by an associate reliability engineer in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

In their first year, Associate Reliability Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to analyze failure data, understanding complex systems, and effectively using reliability modeling tools. Adapting to fast-paced project timelines while ensuring accuracy in root cause analysis is also common. To overcome these, new engineers should actively seek mentorship, participate in cross-functional meetings, and take advantage of training on reliability software and methodologies. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with experienced engineers and technicians will also help accelerate their learning curve.

What is the difference between Associate Reliability Engineer vs Reliability Engineer?

AspectAssociate Reliability EngineerReliability Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like Six Sigma or Reliability Engineering certificationsBachelor's or master's degree; often holds certifications such as Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting reliability projects, data analysis, and testing in manufacturing or industrial settingsMore advanced responsibilities, leading reliability programs, and implementing maintenance strategies
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, aerospace, and energy sectors as an entry-level roleUsed across similar industries for experienced professionals managing reliability initiatives

The main difference is that Associate Reliability Engineers are entry-level professionals supporting reliability tasks, while Reliability Engineers have more experience and take on leadership roles in reliability programs. Both roles require relevant technical credentials and are vital in maintaining equipment performance and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate reliability engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Reliability Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, data analysis, and problem-solving, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with reliability analysis tools (such as Weibull analysis software), maintenance management systems, and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) methodologies is common. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and translate technical findings. These skills and qualities are vital to minimize equipment failures, improve system performance, and ensure operational efficiency.

What does an associate reliability engineer do?

An Associate Reliability Engineer is responsible for supporting the analysis, testing, and improvement of systems or products to ensure their reliability and performance over time. They often work with senior engineers to identify potential failure points, conduct reliability tests, and help implement solutions that increase product lifespan and reduce maintenance costs. Their role may involve data analysis, reporting, and collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. This position is typically an entry-level engineering role that helps build foundational knowledge in reliability engineering principles.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Reliability Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA? For Associate Reliability Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Reliability Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Reliability Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

PLC Programmer

NPK International Inc.

Carencro, LA โ€ข On-site

$54K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Work Location:US.LA.Carencro.2900 Highway 93
Working Environment: On-Site
Division: Site Access
Craft/Manufacturing/Engineering - Engineering
NPK International inc. (NYSE: NPKI) is the only site access solutions partner to manufacture and rent industry-leading sustainable composite matting, along with a full suite of services including planning, logistics, and remediation - so you can protect your people, the environment, and your bottom line.
Job Summary:
A PLC Programmer is responsible for the management, maintenance, oversight and review of automation and control system efforts for the Manufacturing plant along with all required documentation.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Must adhere to all related OSHA, EPA, DEQ, DOT and other regulatory requirements and regulations in concurrence with Company's Policies and Procedures.
  • Authority to shut down any operation that reveals possible harm to self or another employee.
  • Must adhere to and be knowledgeable of Company's Policy and Procedures and must remain abreast of all amendments to the Policy.
  • Must strictly comply with all Safety procedures such as Lock Out/Tag Out, Confined Space, and Climbing standards.
  • Must maintain good housekeeping of all assigned areas and those areas where repairs are in progress or recently completed.
  • Must perform all PMs (Preventative Maintenance) according to company standards and recognized good practices. All documentation must be timely, correct, and complete.
  • Perform electrical & control related repairs and troubleshooting on plant systems. Assist in mechanical repairs where mode of failure is uncertain. Repairs may be on discretely wired elements, I/O devices (digital and analog), PLC/HMI systems components, or system interfaces and communications.
  • Develop electrical control solutions to problems or in response to changes-planned & un-planned- in all plant processes.
  • Must be capable of working independently and completing assigned projects systematically.
  • Perform specialized repairs of custom equipment.
  • Perform electrical service and troubleshooting of all equipment including robots and hot plate welder.
  • Function as a member of cross functional teams charged with specifying equipment and processes for the plant.
  • Must have ability to develop controls strategy as part of a process development team and select I/O appropriate to meet design specifications.
  • Must be able to critically evaluate and select I/O devices based on precision, accuracy, reliability, appropriateness, and sourcing considerations.
  • Analyze current processes and programs to identify improvement potential.
  • Maintenance and upkeep of control system documentation (i.e. ladder logic, schematics, and platform software; both versions and revisions).
  • Safely connect to programmable logic controllers (PLC) to troubleshoot machine or process control systems and make required minor programming changes and modifications when requested by maintenance or engineering.
  • Read and decipher PLC code from manufacturers, such as Allen Bradley's RSLogix 5/500/5000. Modify graphics for operator interfaces (HMI) using software such as Allen Bradley's Panel builder, RS view, Factory talk studio and GT developer.
  • Must be knowledgeable about core communications protocols including Ethernet.
  • Must have working knowledge of SCADA systems.
  • Create new PLC and HMI programs when required.
  • Maintain current backups of all PLC, HMI, SCADA, robot, VFD.
  • Follow established Management of Change (MOC) procedures for all programming modifications.
  • Document all software revisions, changes, and troubleshooting activities before returning equipment to production.
  • Read and understand detailed electrical and electronic schematics.
  • Draw simple schematics to record modifications to equipment as required.
  • Use various company meters such as a megohmmeter, temperature calibrator, loop calibrator, etc., to troubleshoot problems in electrical systems.
  • Carry out additions and alterations on all plant equipment as directed by maintenance or engineering on an ongoing basis, to improve operation and safety of plant equipment.
  • Work with the maintenance department in troubleshooting equipment to determine problems through proper test procedures and operational checks.
  • Perform or assist in corrective and preventative maintenance on facility and production equipment as directed through work orders.
  • Safe operation of forklift.
  • Must be able to be contacted 24/7 and respond to downtime or other emergency conditions.
  • Source & order repair parts. Responsible for all order/receipt documentation.
  • Install, relocate, or remove plant equipment as required.
  • Stay current on knowledge of control products & technologies.

Non-Essential Job Functions:
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Provide guidance and training to other maintenance personnel.

Education and Experience Requirements
Minimum Education Required: High school graduate or equivalent required. Associates Degree in Electronics, Instrumentation and Controls or other related discipline preferred.
Experience: Minimum 5 years hands on automation, controls and industrial electrical experience. Extensive knowledge of controls, PLC, drives, & other related equipment. Computer literate with working knowledge of Microsoft Office. Understanding of hydraulics and pneumatics.
Travel: Minimal travel required, position is onshore in Manufacturing plant
WHY JOIN NPK?
One of NPK's Core Values is Excellence. It means we are committed to delivering value through performance, innovation, and service quality, and that commitment starts with YOU! NPK is where you can challenge yourself in new and exciting ways and work in an environment that supports and values you. Here at NPK, we are committed to finding, developing, retaining, and rewarding the best talent while providing an environment where our employees can grow professionally and personally.
WHAT WE VALUE
At NPK, our values, safety, integrity, accountability, respect, and excellence are more tan words - they are non-negotiable fundamentals that define what is important to us. They are the foundation for our purpose.
Our Purpose encapsulates how our values work together to drive our decision-making, actions, and behaviors. They help us create meaningful relationships with each other, our clients, and partners. Every day, we strive to live these values and fulfill our purpose, building a culture that reflects who we are and where we're headed.
P - People Focused - First in every action
U - United - Different voices make us stronger together
R - Reliable - Unwavering in our quality and service
P - Passionate - Energy and excitement is our fuel
O - Optimistic - Any moment is a chance to shine
S - Sincere - Authenticity starts with vulnerability
E - Enterprising - Agility is the key to opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer. NPK and its affiliates do not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, sexual orientation, disability, military service/veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status. For more information on Equal Employment Opportunity, please click here.
NPK International, Inc. is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity, including providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with a disability. Applications with a physical or mental disability who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process may contact the Manager, HR Governance & Compliance at HRcompliance@npki.com