The demand for pump experts in the manufacturing sector has never been stronger, according to Patrick O’Rahilly, founder of FactoryFix. Pump Repair Technicians who work with reciprocating compressor pumps (used for extraction equipment) are in exceptionally high demand. Pump Mechanic Field Technicians perform basic to advanced maintenance, new equipment installations, and troubleshooting actions.

Experience with Pumps and Cranes (able to repair and diagnose all types of water well pump systems, including VFDs, Motor Controls) is a non-stop need. O’Rahilly is proud that the innovative FactoryFix platform matches vetted manufacturing workers with companies seeking specific skill sets. They set a new quality standard in how small to mid-sized manufacturers are hiring talent.

This solution is not another job board simply posting quality positions and candidates, rather a cost-effective subscription service that uniquely aligns pump professionals with ideal skill sets. Small manufacturers are deeply reliant on these workers.

O’Rahilly suggests the responsibilities and duties in pump vary extensively. The distinct functions require precision in selecting candidates with needed skills. Throwing a wide net to attract new quality staff is a waste of time that small manufacturers can ill afford.

A recent Gartner survey showed 57% of manufacturing leaders feel their organization lacks skilled workers to support smart manufacturing digitization plans. Most agreed a long-term strategy is necessary to develop the connected factory worker.

“Our survey revealed that manufacturers are currently going through a difficult phase in their digitization journey toward smart manufacturing,” said Simon Jacobson, vice president analyst, with the Gartner Supply Chain practice. “They accept that changing from a break-fix mentality and culture to a data-driven workforce is a must. However, intuition, efficiency, and engagement cannot be sacrificed. New workers might be tech- savvy but lack access to best practices and know-how — and tenured workers might have the knowledge but not the digital skills. A truly connected factory worker in a smart manufacturing environment needs both.”

Pump engineers

Pump engineers are responsible for designing, testing, and building pumps. These types of engineers use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM systems to finish tasks. Pump research engineers design pump systems and research methods to manufacture them economically. Pump engineers who work for robot manufacturers are sometimes called pump test engineers or automation system engineers. The pumps being designed are vital in producing efficient products for manufacturing companies. Pump engineers are very team-oriented workers and enjoy working within a collaborative team.

One company is actively looking for an innovative Senior Mechanical Engineer to be part of the infrastructure design team by bringing conceptual designs to life, producing cutting-edge detailed designs that are fully integrated with associated manufacturing processes and building infrastructure.

Responsibilities for this type of position usually require applying engineering fundamentals and a broad set of mechanical engineering tools to solve technical problems and create novel detailed designs for a wide range of systems from HVAC to paint and e-coat fluid systems. This type of position involves unit operations such as pump and air handlers, reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and heat transfer fluid systems.

Qualifications range for these pump engineering positions but frequently require a minimum of 7 years of HVAC and Process Systems design experience and familiarity with Mechanical Code, NFPA standards, SMACNA duct construction standards, ACGIH Ventilation Practices, ASME, OSHA, and ASHRAE 62 and 90.1. Many employers want the applicant to be familiar with the following types of calculations: duct static pressure drop, pump head, NPSHa, and fuel gas pipe sizing.

O’Rahilly insisted, “One day without a qualified professional pump engineer on the manufacturing plant floor can be disastrous. FactoryFix has accumulated and continues to grow the largest database of candidates who each have unique expertise in performing problem identification, resolution, and continuous improvement.”

O’Rahilly added, “The result is a tremendous time and costs savings when compared to hiring through a traditional staffing agency or job board. Both have their advantages, but staffing firms are expensive, and job boards require a lot of time and effort to sift through unqualified candidates. The FactoryFix platform allows pump manufacturing leaders the power to create long-term hiring strategies which empower the best practice operation.”

Author Profile:
Thomas R. Cutler is the President and CEO of Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based, TR Cutler, Inc., celebrating its 23 rd year. Cutler is the founder of the Manufacturing Media Consortium including more than 9000 journalists, editors, and economists writing about trends in manufacturing, industry, material handling, and process improvement. TR Cutler, Inc. recently launched three new divisions focusing on Gen Z, the African manufacturing sector, and manufacturing in the entertainment sector. Cutler authors more than 1000 feature articles annually regarding the manufacturing sector. Over 5000 industry leaders follow Cutler on Twitter daily at @ThomasRCutler. Contact Cutler at trcutler@trcutlerinc.com.