Kenneth W. Hiers
Ridgeville,SC
Summary
Experienced I&E professional with strong background in instrumentation and electrical systems. Skilled in troubleshooting, maintenance, and installation, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Known for effective team collaboration, adaptability to changing needs, and delivering consistent results. Highly reliable, with focus on precision, safety protocols, and technical expertise.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
I&E Technician
Symrise
Goose Creek, SC
02.2024 - Current
- Conducted routine inspections of instrumentation systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
- Troubleshot and repaired electrical and instrumentation equipment to minimize downtime.
- Installed, calibrated, and maintained process control instruments for enhanced operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to implement system upgrades and improvements effectively.
- Mentored junior technicians in best practices for troubleshooting and safety protocols.
- Implemented preventive maintenance schedules to improve overall equipment effectiveness across the facility.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize plant operations and improve overall performance.
- Increased production output with proper installation, configuration, and calibration of new equipment.
- Supported new equipment commissioning and start-up processes, ensuring seamless integration into existing I&E infrastructure.
- Enhanced system efficiency by calibrating and maintaining instrumentation and control devices.
- Partnered with installer to troubleshoot and resolve instrumentation and electrical equipment and automation issues.
- Ensured safety compliance by conducting hazard assessments and implementing corrective measures for identified issues.
- Reduced equipment downtime through routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Implemented energy-efficient solutions that resulted in cost savings for the organization without compromising operational efficiency or quality standards.
- Assisted process engineers in identifying root causes of recurring issues within I&E systems, leading to long-term resolutions.
- Drove continuous improvement initiatives across I&E systems using data-driven approaches to achieve measurable results.
- Documented all maintenance activities in accordance with regulatory requirements to ensure audit readiness at all times.
- Optimized equipment reliability by evaluating performance data and implementing targeted improvements.
- Provided technical support during project planning, ensuring accurate budgeting and timely completion of tasks.
- Minimized production interruptions by effectively troubleshooting electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems failures.
- Used information in technical diagrams, schematics, and manuals to understand operations and make successful repairs.
- Worked to create safe, low-cost and dependable designs.
- Evaluated finished assemblies for compliance with standard procedures and design requirements.
- Interpreted scale drawings of new commissions to determine layout of materials and equipment.
- Reviewed existing electrical engineering criteria to identify necessary revisions, deletions or amendments to outdated material.
- Tested wiring and other system parts for electrical flow and function.
- Installed electrical conduit and wiring for power, controls, and lighting.
- Replaced faulty wiring, switches and circuit breakers to reduce fire risks, boost service capacity and increase versatility.
- Tested, troubleshot, and calibrated equipment in shop and field.
- Performed preventive maintenance tasks to verify proper working condition of electrical panels and conduits.
- Installed, adjusted and calibrated electrical equipment and instrumentation to maintain proper performance.
- Disconnected and removed motors and pumps.
- Installed electrical wiring through conduits and holes in both flooring and walls.
- Inspected equipment for defects and safety hazards and completed necessary repairs.
- Assisted with emergency and scheduled shutdowns while performing regular electrical duties.
- Obtained measurements and readings using volt and ohm meters, meggers, IC testers, and dial indicators.
- Interpreted blueprints, schematics, drawings, and layouts to complete repairs.
E&I Technician
Georgia Pacific
Alcolu, SC
06.2023 - 02.2024
- Conducted installation and ongoing maintenance of electrical and instrumentation systems to ensure operational efficiency.
- Diagnosed and addressed equipment issues to maintain seamless operations.
- Engaged with diverse teams to streamline production processes and improve operational workflows.
- Performed regular inspections to monitor system functionality and adherence to compliance standards.
- Developed and implemented safety protocols aimed at maintaining workplace security.
- Facilitated training sessions for junior technicians to enhance skills in equipment handling and troubleshooting.
- Implemented rapid response protocols to address unforeseen E&I equipment failures, ensuring minimal production disruption.
- Conducted thorough inspections and identified issues to ensure optimal performance and reliability of electrical and instrumentation systems.
- Applied critical thinking to troubleshoot and rectify complex challenges in PLC programming, HMI interfaces, SCADA systems, and other industrial control systems to enhance operational efficiency.
- Executed thorough reviews of schematics, wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and specifications to guarantee accurate installation of electrical and instrumentation components.
- Executed installation and calibration of pressure transmitters, temperature sensors, and flow meters to optimize operational efficiency.
- Promoted workplace safety by following established safety protocols and engaging in ongoing safety training and meetings within the electrical and instrumentation field.
- Executed preventive maintenance strategies aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing equipment downtime.
- Guided junior E&I technicians in skill enhancement through practical training and mentorship, fostering a culture of excellence.
- Performed thorough testing and verification of electrical and instrumentation components through the application of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and calibration tools to maintain operational integrity.
- Partnered with engineering teams to design and implement effective solutions addressing complex technical issues in industrial settings.
- Executed systematic evaluations of wiring and system parts to maintain operational integrity and reliability.
- Facilitated installation of electrical conduit and wiring to enhance power control and lighting functionality.
- Executed replacement of defective wiring components and circuit breakers to mitigate fire hazards and improve operational versatility.
- Conducted thorough testing and troubleshooting of equipment to ensure optimal performance in shop and field settings.
- Conducted thorough inspections and maintenance of electrical panels and conduits to uphold safety and operational standards.
- Performed installation and calibration of electrical equipment and instrumentation to uphold operational efficiency.
- Performed systematic disconnection and removal of motors and pumps to ensure equipment reliability.
- Facilitated electrical wiring installation to ensure safe and efficient power distribution throughout the building.
- Performed necessary repairs on equipment following detailed inspections to ensure operational safety.
- Supported operational continuity by managing emergency and scheduled shutdowns alongside regular electrical tasks.
- Conducted thorough assessments and readings to ensure accurate electrical measurements and device functionality.
- Interpreted technical drawings and layouts to facilitate efficient repair processes.
- Employed analytical skills to isolate and diagnose a range of faults, ensuring operational efficiency.
- Performed maintenance by replacing defective and aged parts to ensure optimal system performance.
I&E Technician
WestRock Paper Mill
North Charleston, SC
12.2017 - 05.2023
- Diagnosed malfunctions in faulty equipment by utilizing advanced test equipment and software.
- Conducted thorough inspections of industrial equipment components to ensure precise assembly and installation.
- Executed installation of repaired equipment across diverse environments, including industrial and office buildings.
- Analyzed work orders and engaged with equipment operators to identify equipment issues and determine root causes of mechanical or human errors.
- Executed scheduled preventive maintenance tasks, including equipment inspection, cleaning, and repairs.
- Analyzed blueprints, schematics, manuals, and specifications to establish installation procedures.
- Configured and tested industrial equipment to guarantee optimal functionality.
- Executed repairs and adjustments on equipment and machines, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Oversaw maintenance of equipment logs documenting performance issues, repairs, calibrations, and tests.
- Calibrated testing instruments and executed installation or repair of equipment to meet prescribed specifications.
- Diagnosed issues, replaced or repaired components, and implemented necessary adjustments.
- Collaborated with various trades to diagnose issues and execute repairs.
Electrical Foreman
Faith Technologies
09.2017 - 11.2017
- Managed a crew
- Run pipe, pull wire, run small jobs, work with 480v, 277v, 240v and 120v
- Knowledgeable in using volt ohm meters for testing electrical circuits
- Able to read more complex and basic blueprints
Equipment Operator
R.A Ritter Logging
Moncks Corner, SC
07.2017 - 09.2017
- Perform preventative maintenance and services on equipment
- Operate Tigercat Skidder
Maintenance Electrician 3
Berkeley County Water & Sanitation
Moncks Corner, SC
11.2012 - 07.2017
- Performed maintenance and repair of electric, electronic, pneumatic and hydraulic control and power systems associated with sewer lift stations and wastewater treatment plant.
- Performed preventative maintenance, calibration and repair of chlorine sampling equipment, telemetry systems, tank and basin level indicators and flow transmitters/recorders and other instrumentation equipment.
- Performed all aspects of programming and maintenance of PLC controls, variable frequency drives, and SCADA equipment
- Enters and exits manholes, pump station wet wells and other confined spaces to perform inspections, maintenance and repairs
- Properly document all maintenance actions for self and assigned personnel.
- Managed moderately sized projects from inception to documented completion, including planning, specification and ordering of material and efficient utilization of available manpower.
- Provided direct supervision to crews, work groups and individuals as assigned.
- Provided training for new personnel with a strong emphasis on safety
- Able to use and interpret most standard electrical/electronic test equipment.
- Able to read and understand electrical, electronic, and mechanical equipment operating and maintenance manuals, including schematics, drawings, blueprints and technical data instructions.
- Able to troubleshoot and repair complex electrical circuits.
- Has working knowledge of PLCs and computerized control systems.
- Has working knowledge of routine motor maintenance including preventive maintenance and minor repair such as bearing replacement
- Has in-depth knowledge of electrical theory, National Electric code and electrical safety procedures.
Electrical Foreman
Eldeco
Charleston, SC
05.2012 - 11.2012
- Manage a crew
- Run pipe, pull wire, run small jobs, work with 480v, 277v, 240v and 120v
- Knowledgeable in using volt ohm meters for testing electrical circuits
- Able to read more complex and basic blueprints
Education
High School Diploma -
Berkeley High
Moncks Corner, SC05.2002
Skills
- Executed troubleshooting and programming of Allen Bradley PLCs utilizing RSLogix software
- Diagnosed and resolved issues within motor control centers to ensure optimal functionality
- Diagnosed and resolved issues with instrumentation, including Vega, Emerson, and Rosemount systems
- Diagnosed and resolved issues with control valves to ensure optimal system performance
- Demonstrated comprehensive understanding of customer service principles and practices
- Addressed trouble calls and resolved diverse issues of moderate scope and complexity
- Executed equipment maintenance and repair operations to ensure optimal functionality
- Analyzed and interpreted basic and complex schematics and diagrams to ensure accurate implementation
- Diagnosed and resolved issues with ABB variable frequency drives (VFDs)
- Demonstrated expertise in maintaining cleanliness and compliance within clean room environments
- Demonstrated expertise in industrial manufacturing environments, ensuring operational efficiency
Timeline
I&E Technician
Symrise
02.2024 - Current
E&I Technician
Georgia Pacific
06.2023 - 02.2024
I&E Technician
WestRock Paper Mill
12.2017 - 05.2023
Electrical Foreman
Faith Technologies
09.2017 - 11.2017
Equipment Operator
R.A Ritter Logging
07.2017 - 09.2017
Maintenance Electrician 3
Berkeley County Water & Sanitation
11.2012 - 07.2017
Electrical Foreman
Eldeco
05.2012 - 11.2012
High School Diploma -
Berkeley High