Project Specialist - Lead Mechanical Autopsies!

What We Do:

SMS group is the leading partner in the world of metals. SMS group Inc. in Valparaiso, IN is part of a global company that employs more than 12,000 people at over 100 locations, throughout 31 countries. We use our over 150 years of experience and unique expertise in metallurgy, industrial processes and digitalization to create new perspectives for our industry through continuous innovation. We are the leading market player in the design and construction of blast furnace and coke oven plants and an original equipment supplier, offering comprehensive maintenance and spare part services for iron making, metals production, continuous casting and rolling (flat and long products), tubes, welded pipes, forging, non-ferrous technology and heat treatment plants - all from a single source.

Summary of the Role:

The Project Specialist will bridge the gap between technical mechanical design and project management. Based out of our Valparaiso workshop, you will lead the Disassemble, Inspect, and Advise (DIA) process for heavy blast furnace equipment. You won't just look at worn components — you will diagnose failure mechanisms, engineer technical refurbishment strategies, and breathe new life into industrial equipment.

This role is a unique hybrid of engineering analysis, hands-on quality assurance, cost estimation, and supplier collaboration. If you thrive on variety, love solving mechanical puzzles, and want to coordinate workflows across multiple departments, this is your next challenge!

What You'll Do:

• Be the Technical Anchor: Serve as the primary technical point of contact for clients, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
• Lead the Mechanical Autopsies: Head up the DIA process, directing teardowns, precision dimensional verifications, and deep-dive failure analyses.
• Translate Complex Data: Interpret engineering drawings, material specifications, bills of materials (BOMs), and custom customer specifications.
• Engineer the Recovery Plan: Evaluate component conditions and determine the optimal route for repair, refurbishment, or replacement.
• Author the Playbook: Draft detailed inspection reports, technical assessments, and comprehensive refurbishment scopes of work.
• Own the Economics: Support Project Management by building accurate repair cost estimates, monitoring expenditures, and keeping vendor bids on track.
• Guard the Standards: Verify that all in-progress repairs strictly comply with engineering drawings, quality plans, and industry benchmarks.

• Close the Loop: Manage Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), execute final inspections, and sign off on equipment readiness prior to shipment.

What You Bring (Required):

• Heavy Mechanical DNA: A strong foundation in heavy assemblies, welding, machining, and industrial repair practices.
• The Diagnostic Eye: Proven experience conducting dimensional inspections, failure analysis, and root-cause investigations.
• Blueprint Fluency: The ability to seamlessly interpret complex engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Precision Toolkit: Deep proficiency with precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators).
• Cross-Functional Leadership: A track record of coordinating workflows across multiple departments and communicating technical findings clearly to clients.
• Tech Basics: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and hands-on experience using ERP systems.
• Mobility: A willingness to travel occasionally to customer and supplier sites within North America.

Bonus Points For (Highly Preferred):

• A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• A background inside blast furnaces, coke plants, steel mills, or heavy process industries.
• Quality credentials like CQE or CQT certifications.
• Experience with ISO 9001 systems, welding inspection, and NDT methods.
• Hands-on proficiency with AutoCAD; Faro Arm / CMM systems.

Medical / dental / vision coverage, company paid life insurance, 15 paid vacation days in your first year if you bring 5 or more years of experience (prorated to start date), 10 paid holidays per year, 401K with company match, a tuition reimbursement program and more!

Who we are:

At SMS group, our people are our greatest asset. We offer an entrepreneurial environment that promotes a culture of innovation, growth and inclusion. We offer company events and activities to foster team-building and opportunities to participate in charitable initiatives that benefit the communities where we are located.